Magazine Table of Contents Conventions

Using this edited image I got from the internet, I will be teaching myself the conventions of a magazine's table of contents.

(Example to Identify)

Issue Number

The issue number is usually at the top left or right corner of the contents page. This helps the readers know which specific magazine they've purchased or are purchasing.

On the example magazine table of contents page I put, the issue number is located at the top right corner, below the volume number. It reads: "13."

Issue Date

The issue date is usually at the top left or right corner of the contents page. This helps the readers know when the magazine was issued/released.

On the example, the issue date is located at the top right corner, below the issue number. It reads: "December 2014." 

Contents

The word "Contents" is prominent on the page, usually written in bold capital letters which makes it stand out. This explains what the page is about. 

On the example, the word "Contents" is located at the top below the magazine's name (InStyle). The font is in black to contrast the white background. 

Main Image

The main image is usually of a celebrity that was featured on the front cover image. They are the main subject and feature article of the magazine.

On the example, the main image is of singer and actress Ariana Grande. She is wearing a white and black outfit, which helps contrast the white background. 

Magazine Name

The magazine name is usually plastered on the contents page in the top left hand corner. It is so the audience knows who is the company behind the piece of work.

On the example, the magazine name is located at the top center of the table of contents page, above the capitalized word "Contents." It reads: "InStyle."

Page Numbers

The page numbers usually start at the left, and are before the heading. The numbers are usually in a different color and font from the heading so it can stand out.

On the example, the page numbers are located at the left before the headings. They are hot pink and in a different font compared to the headings. One reads: "225."

Specials

The specials are usually separate from the other headings so it stands out more. They are sometimes one off interviews or features. They are also an important part of an issue.

On the example, the specials are located at the bottom right of the page. It reads: "Features."

Headline

The headline is usually at the bottom corners of the table of contents page, below the main image. They are never placed on the faces of the celebrities. They usually give a brief introduction to the article for the audience. 

On the example, the headline is located at the bottom right corner. It reads: "Ariana Grande / Her rise has been fast and furious, but the 21-year-old singer has it under control. [...]"

Reflection

Having learned the conventions of a magazine's table of contents will help me with producing my portfolio. 

Now that I have more insight, I am more prepared and comfortable with how to create a table of contents page from how it appears.