Contents page conventions

Contents pages are designed as a reference to what is in a magazine.  They provide a brief overview of individual articles & features, some of which might be regular additions for every edition.  

The design and layout are based upon a grid structure that you must follow.  You must use rulers and gridlines to construct your ideas.  

1. They usually include a contents banner at the top of the page.  The masthead is also usually featured along with the date, issue number, web address and social media information.

2. They have 1 or 2 columns of text which have sub-headings such as NEWS, REGULARS, FEATURES, REVIEWS, LETTERS, etc..

3. They use numbers to indicate the page location.  

4. They incorporate photos of the content with numbers and captions to provide anchorage, (creates a sense of meaning for an image).  The larger the photos the more important that article is.

5. Each article/ feature heading is in a larger/ bolder font for emphasis.

6. There is blurb underneath each heading which is smaller and gives an indication of the content for that feature/ article.

7. There is often an editor's letter.  There can also be a callout box with magazine subscription information.  

The use of the text needs to be considered for emphasis and also needs to be a suitable size.  As a guide no larger than 24pt.  No smaller than 10pt.  If in doubt print and check.