If you're working with a large document in Microsoft Word, it might be a good idea to add a table of contents. This will help you navigate the contents of your document faster and make it easier to consolidate. In this tutorial, we'll show you how to add a table of contents in Microsoft Word, both on the desktop and web versions.
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Setting up your headers
Before you can add a table of contents (TOC) to your document in Microsoft Word, you'll need to add some headings to your text. Think of it as dividing it into sections. Once you do this, you'll be able to create a table of contents that includes heading names and, optionally, the pages where each section begins.
- If you're using Word for the web, open the document and make sure the section headings are added to the document.
2. Click on all the boxes you added, then press the button. "Patterns" In the list above.
3. Select “Address 1"Or"Address 2"Or"Address 3"For all section headings in the document.
4. If you are using the Word application to edit the document on your computer, you should find options "Patterns" Under the tabHome Page“. You can select your option by clicking on its card.
How to Add a Table of Contents in Microsoft Word for the Web
Once you have added all of your headings, follow the steps below to add your table of contents:
- Make sure your cursor is where you want to insert your table of contents in your document.
- Go to "the reviewer" In the ribbon menu.
3. Select “Table of Contents -> Insert Table of Contents".
4. The table of contents will be added. Note that on the web, changing the font of the table of contents to match the font in the document doesn't seem to work. Additional customization options are also very limited.
How to Update or Delete a Table of Contents in Microsoft Word for the Web
What if you add more text to your document and then need to adjust the table of contents to reflect the changes? You can easily update it in Word for the web.
- Add new headers to your document or modify existing headers to suit your needs.
- Hover over Table of contents.
- Click an option "Update".
4. Alternatively, right-click the table of contents to select it, and then go to References -> Table of contents -> Update the table of contents."
5. From the same menu, you can also “Remove table of contents".
How to Add a Table of Contents in Microsoft Word for Desktop
Using the Word desktop app gives you additional options when it comes to creating a table of contents. These features may not be available in older versions of Word, but for the purposes of this article, we're using Microsoft Word Professional 2021.
- When you move to "the reviewer -> Table of Contents You will see various options for creating a table of contents. There are variables "automatic table" , which is the simplest solution.
2. However, you also have the option Manual table. If you choose this, you will not have to add the headers via "Patterns". You can use naturally formatted text as headings for your sections.
How to Customize Your Table of Contents in Microsoft Word for Desktop
In Word for PC, you can customize the appearance of your table of contents in several ways.
- Go to References -> Table of Contents -> Custom Table of Contents and check out options.
2. For example, you can choose to use hyperlinks instead of page numbers or use different tab styles.
3. Most importantly, you can customize the appearance of the headers by clicking on "amendment".
4. Select Table of contents From the menu and customize His appearance , including Color and font.
5. The image below is an example of: How to customize your table of contents.
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How to Update or Delete a Table of Contents in Microsoft Word for Desktop
If you make any changes to your schedule, you'll need to update it by following the instructions below to see the changes.
- Right-click on the table of contents and select “Update field".
2. In the pop-up window that appears, select “Update the entire table”, and your changes will become visible.
3. If you want to remove the table permanently, go to References -> Table of Contents -> Remove Table of Contents.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Q1. Can I add a table of contents in the Word mobile app?
answer. Unfortunately, no. However, the Word Web app and mobile app sync via OneDrive, so anything you create in the past will be instantly available on your mobile phone. If you're having trouble OneDrive sync issues , we'll show you how to troubleshoot.
Alternatively, you can transfer files from your computer to your Android or iOS device without having to worry about viewing the table of contents in the mobile apps. It even works as intended (provided you've selected this feature), so simply clicking on a heading will take you directly to the relevant section.
Q2. Can I add the document title to my table of contents?
answer. Yes. You will need access to the option. Custom Table of ContentsOnce the window opens, click the button. "Options" Use the scroll bar on the right to view all. Available styles. You will notice the field "the address". Add a table of contents level, such as: "1" , then refresh the table to view the changes.
Q3. How can I highlight my table of contents in the document?
answer. You can create a border to help it stand out by going to Insert -> ShapesOnce you have inserted the shape to include the table of contents, you will need to right-click on it and select “Format Shape -> No Fill” To make the text visible.
