What term is used for the introductory line of a story, often the most important facts at the start?

• A. Lead
• B. Lower Third
• C. Kicker
• D. Lip Flap

Answer: (A)

The opening line of a story is built to deliver the most important facts right away. This leading sentence or paragraph, called the lead, gives the essential details—the who, what, when, where, and why—so readers understand what happened and why it matters from the very start. It’s crafted to grab attention and set the direction for the rest of the piece. The other terms describe different things: a lower third is the on-screen graphic that shows a name or title; a kicker is a concluding line that leaves a strong impression; lip flap isn’t a standard term for an opening line. So the lead is the best fit because it directly fulfills the function of summing up the story at the outset.