Here's why it's important:
* Grabs attention: The lead is the first thing readers see, so it needs to be engaging and entice them to continue reading.
* Sets the tone: It establishes the style and overall feel of the piece.
* Provides context: It should give readers a clear idea of what the article is about and what they can expect to learn.
There are many types of leads, including:
* Summary lead: Provides a concise overview of the main points.
* Anecdotal lead: Starts with a personal story or experience.
* Question lead: Poses a question to draw the reader in.
* Quote lead: Starts with a compelling quote from a source.
The best type of lead depends on the topic, audience, and the overall goal of the writing.