Contents Page

This example is taken from the NME music magazine which is shown by the logo in the left hand corner. This is to keep a similar layout style of the front cover. Moreover the conventional colours that are displayed on the cover and fonts are also kept the same to keep a familiar feel throughout the magazine. In some magazines this page is simply title 'contents' however this one in particular is titled, This Week'. This is a more informative title as it lets us know that it is a weekly published magazine.

The contents have separated into different categories which are listed down the right hand side. This way it makes it easier for the reader if they are searching for an article in particular. In addition to this, cover stories are highlighted by a red arrow as the reader has most likely been drawn in by the content featured on the cover. There is also a 'Plus' section at the bottom right hand side to show the extra content, this appeals to the reader as they like to feel they have got more than their moneys worth. Underneath this is a boxed piece of text representing the 'UK's no.1 gig guide' this piece of information would be excellent for music lovers which i why it has been emphasized in this way. On the opposite side is a 'Band Index' this is helpful for the reader for example if they wanted to read about a specific band they would be able to look at this and go straight to the correct page instead of wasting time skipping through. This is boxed in a similar way to the gig guide advertisement as a link can be made here, if you are interested in a particular band you would be likely to be interested in the details of their gig.

In the centre is a small story, which is where I imagine the magazine promote a highlight event of that particular week in every issue. This is suggested by the headline, 'The moment that...' after the three dots any story can be placed in that space. It is likely that this will be featured every issue and whatever follows this statement will be different. For example in this particular page Oasis kicking off their world tour is one of the main events of that week. A short article is displayed to interest the reader and give them an insight into the exciting reads they can expect to find in the magazine. It is accompanied by an image of Oasis performing on their tour to support the headline. By using a well recognised and respected artist or band in this space will be more appealing to the audience. By including these small insights it makes the audience want to read on further.

A subscription advertisement is displayed in the centre at the bottom of the page reading, 'Subscribe today save 33%' it is the only piece of yellow text on the page which makes it stand out from the rest of the page. Moreover it is against a black background which makes it appear sharper, brighter and bolder. This is an opportunity for the company to make sales and therefore is essential that the readers know about the subscription offer which is the reason fr the way in which it has been displayed. Also by advertising at discount price the audience is more likely to want to subscribe to the magazine.

This example has given me an insight into how to compose my own contents page and I now know what features and conventions I could use and feature to create my own successful contents page.