How to create automatic table of contents in Word 2013

Each document needs to have a table of contents for readers to understand and quickly grasp the content of a hundreds-page document when looking at the index. So a table of contents is necessary for all documents, especially large volumes. I will introduce how to create the fastest automatic table of contents in Word 2013.

There are 3 basic steps to creating a table of contents automatically in Word 2013:

1. Create Headings.

2. Create automatic table of contents.

3. Update the table of contents (In case the document changes).

Step 1: Create headings (highlight all items in the table of contents).

- Select the object to create a table of contents. There are 2 items "I / Target" and "II / Preparation" at the same level, so I choose at the same time.

- Click the References tab -> Add Text -> Choose Level .

How to create automatic table of contents in Word 2013 Picture 1

Create subheadings, notice the heading is a sub heading of a large heading that is inferior to a large level. Here "1. Knowledge, 2. Skills, 3. Attitude" is a subset of "I. Target (level 2)" should choose Level 3 .

How to create automatic table of contents in Word 2013 Picture 2

After creating the headings, the results are as shown in the picture:

How to create automatic table of contents in Word 2013 Picture 3

Step 2: Create an automatic table of contents.

- Place the cursor in the position where the table of contents needs to be created (at the beginning or the end of the document).

- Click the References tab -> Table Of Contents .

How to create automatic table of contents in Word 2013 Picture 4

You choose the display type of table of contents. So you have successfully created the table of contents.

How to create automatic table of contents in Word 2013 Picture 5

Step 3: Update the table of contents.

In case of change in the content of the text affecting the table of contents, it will be updated. Absolutely you should not edit directly in the table of contents.

- Select the References tab then select Update Table .

- A dialog box appears, choose one of the two options:

+ Update page numbers only: Only update the page number.

+ Update entire table: update all content and page numbers.

How to create automatic table of contents in Word 2013 Picture 6

Good luck !

Jessica Tanner

Update 19 May 2020

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