THE NUT GRAPH

 

The nut GRAPH (graf) tells the reader what the writer is up to. It’s a short summary of what the story is about - a reason why it is worth reading.

 

 IMPORTANCE OF THE NUT GRAPH

 

It justifies the story by telling readers why they should care about the subject matter.

 

It is a transition from the first few graphs into the meat of the story.

 

It may have a sense of time.

 

It should attempt to “hook” the reader.

 

Possibly allows the reader to sign off or tune out at that point.

  

 

CONSTRUCTION

 

Works well in inverted pyramid style of writing; gets important info up high in story.

 

The nut graph can be longer than one paragraph but generally not.

 

Should state the intent of the story.

 

Adds additional information to the development of the body of story.

 

Should anticipate what the reader might be thinking after reading the first few graphs of the story.