Research: Codes and Conventions of a TV Listinngs Magazine Cover

Masthead:
TV Magazines follow the same convention as ordinary magazines and newspapers that the masthead is located in the top left hand corner of the front page. The reason for this is that in newsagents and all other sellers of magazines and newspapers, the typical layout of the shelving is that the left hand side of the front cover is always left visible whilst the middle and the right hand side of the cover is always covered by the next magazine.

The masthead need to follow continuity as most people are able to pick out the magazine/newspaper that they are looking for simply just by looking for the style of the logo.

To make a masthead more noticeable, it is best to follow codes and conventions and use a simple to read but large font, a colour that stands out against the background.

Main Image:
The main image that is used takes up the majority of the page as it is spread across the centre and the right section of the page. It typically contains actors/actresses that are well known within the Soap that is being advertised, and always has some involvement with a mass storyline that is either approaching, or is currently happening.

Coverline:
The Coverline acts as a 'screamer' from the magazine front cover. It is the main focal point whenever somebody looks at the page as that is the first thing that is visible to them. In order to attract somebody's attention to the headline, the easiest way of doing this is by using bright, visible colours, using a large and chunky but clear font that is easy to read, and placing it on a dark background which will enhance the bright colour even further.

Another convention of a cover line is that it must be sensational, however, it must not give too much information as people will not buy the magazine, or watch the soap either as they will be aware of what happens.

Subheading:
A subheading is the strip of text beneath the coverline which tells a bit more information of the main storyline on the front page, though similar to the coverline, it must sensationalise it without revealing too much.

Date:
The date is another vital concept that needs to be placed on the front of a magazine, otherwise people will be unaware of what week the magazine is referring too.