A table of contents built from headings updates itself, so you never retype page numbers. This guide follows Microsoft Support’s steps.
Step 1: Apply heading styles
- Select the heading text.
- Go to Home > Styles and choose Heading 1, Heading 2 or Heading 3.
Microsoft says the table of contents is “based on the headings in your document”, and its steps use Heading 1 through 3. Use Heading 1 for chapters, Heading 2 for sections and Heading 3 for subsections.
Step 2: Insert the table
- Place your cursor where the table of contents should go.
- Go to References > Table of Contents.
- Choose Automatic Table 1 or Automatic Table 2.
Step 3: Update it after edits
After changes that affect it, such as new headings, renamed headings or content that moves pages, right-click the table of contents and choose Update Field.
Want a custom look?
Go to References > Table of Contents and choose Custom Table of Contents. Microsoft’s page says this lets you create your own style but doesn’t describe the options. Check the dialog in your own version of Word.
What this page doesn’t cover
- Creating a manual table of contents.
- Deleting a table of contents.
- Platform differences between Windows, Mac and Web; the page has tabs for each but the text shows no differences.
- Limits such as page numbers, hyperlinks and formatting options.
Quick checklist
- Every section title uses a heading style, not just bold text
- Automatic table inserted where you want it
- Update Field run before you share or print
