The Contents Page

Questions

What is the function of a contents page?

The function of a contents page is to give the reader an idea of what is featured in the magazine.  The act of reading a magazine is often a non-linear process, so the contents page also helps the reader to navigate the magazine. Therefore the contents page includes page numbers together with descriptions of the different content to allow the reader control how he or she reads the magazine,. 

How does a reader use a contents page?

The contents page is placed at the front of a magazine.  This is usually the first page after the cover page.  The reader use this to select a topic they're most interested in and they would look at the page number and they would be able to jump straight that page. This allows the reader to only select the content that is of most interest.

What is the conventional layout/design for a contents page in a magazine?

The layout is usually set out in columns.  There is usually one main image relating to an article and smaller subsidiary images relating to other articles.  The masthead, the word 'contents' and issue date are often placed at the top of the contents page and the colour scheme is usually similar to the front page and the in-house style of the magazine.

How much information does a contents page contain?

The contents page will only include relevant information to the articles inside. The page number needs to be relevant to the page of the article.  There is a small summary of each article underneath the subheading of the article.  This gives the reader an idea on the information of the article they will be reading.

How are images used in a conventional contents page?

Images are used to relate the subject to the article.  You will often find the image close to the page number and the subheading, whether it be a picture of the artist/band or equipment.