Codes and conventions of a contents page

1. Codes and Conventions
of a Contents Page

2. Colour scheme
• Usually up to three colours
used.
• More frequently used
colours are red, black and
white.
• Need to be easily readable.
• Eye-catching but not
distracting.

3. Page Numbers
• Listed in numerical order to
help reader navigate their
way through the page.
• Different font to the rest of the
text to make them stand out
and easy to spot.
• The value of the article will
determine the size of the
page number.
• Sometimes linked with
images.

4. Title ‘Contents’
• The title ‘contents’ is used to
tell the reader what that page
is and what is on it.
• It is normally positioned at the
top of the contents page in a
bold font, this is so it is easily
noticeable for the reader.

5. Columns
• Usually between three to four
columns in a contents page.
At a push, five.
• The columns will help frame
the main image.
• Make it easier for the reader
to understand the page
layout.
• Keep the magazine layout
clean and manageable.

6. Pictures That Anchor
The Articles
• The main image will always
be the largest image on the
page.
• It will directly link to the main
headline.
• Most likely that the subject
will be making direct
address, however some
magazines will go against
codes and conventions.

7. Headings
• Each heading is listed with a
page number so the reader
can find that article.
• Bold eye-catching font that is
easy to notice.
• The main heading and main
image work in synergy.
• Always listed vertically so it
is easier to navigate through.

8. Font
• Usually use a font size of
11pt.
• Number may be bigger.
• Need to be able to fit
everything on the page while
also being readable.

9. Issue Number
• Usually positioned in the top
left or right corner.
• Normally positioned with the
magazine title.
• In a smaller font as it is not a
very important feature that
would effect the reader.

10. Magazine Name
• If the magazine name has not
been typed onto the contents
page then a picture of the
front cover can be used
instead.
• Usually positioned at the top
of the contents page.
• Biggest font on the page.