A "LEDE" is the opening sentence or paragraph of a news article that summarizes the main point or highlights the most important information. It is designed to grab the reader's attention and provide a clear overview of the story. A well-crafted LEDE helps readers quickly understand the significance of the news being reported. In journalism, the LEDE is crucial because it sets the tone for the entire article. It often includes key details such as who, what, when, where, and why, allowing readers to decide if they want to continue reading. Effective LEDEs are concise and engaging, making them essential for effective communication in the media.