Case study part 3: Contents page

'Kerrang!' (11.10.14)



3) Analysing the Contents page of a magazine

The contents page lists all the features of the magazine by separating them into different categories: news, feedback, features, shots, lives, albums, gig guide and the ultimate rockstar test. The list is very organized with the title of the article, the page number and the occasional brief.

The page is covered in photos of bands including in the actual list of features. This makes the magazine seem fun and exciting and attracts the target audience, especially if they see one of their favorite bands.

The feature section of the list is emphasized on by being highlighted in a purple box. The use of shadowing makes it seem like it's popping out of the page which puts it in an important position and attracts the attention of the readers.

4 colours are used to list the features

• The title of each category is written in yellow on a black background. This combination is usually used for warnings therefore presenting its importance.
• The article headings and any additional information are written in black which is very simple and doesn't steer the attention away from what is written.
• The page numbers are in red which makes them stand out and easy to find.
• The colour purple is used to emphasise the features. This could be because purple is considered a very luxurious colour therefore making the features seem rich and important.

The category names and the article headings are all capitalized making them stand out. The headings are also in bold adding to this effect. In a way, this makes them seem energetic and this energy attracts readers.

The language used on the Contents page is informal and colloquial. There are phrases like 'tearing up the U.S like a big teary-uppy machine', 'hamster ball thing', 'widdly-widdly-wheeee' and 'um, okay'. This makes the connection between reader and writer seem like a very friendly and relaxed one where they can say anything to each other. The language used is language that would usually be used by the target audience, therefore making them feel at home with the magazine.