Writing Tip of the Day – Names and Ledes

An editor/mentor advised me once that when you are writing an article lede, never start with a person's name unless that person is a household name.

The reason: unless that name is well known, it is not enough of a hook for people to read on.

Think about it: are you more likely to read an article that starts with 'Beyonce' or an article that starts with Jane Doe?

Exactly.

I don't always adhere to this rule, but I try to whenever I can.

I would name the person who suggested this to me, but that person was passing on advice they received from their mentor.

And they are not a household name…