How to Create a Table of Contents in Google Docs | Update a Table of Contents in Google Docs

Introduction

Creating a Table of Contents (ToC) in Google Docs can enhance the organization of your document and make navigation easier, especially for lengthy papers. This tutorial will guide you through the process of setting up a Table of Contents in Google Docs, ensuring it updates automatically as you modify your document.

Step 1: Create a New Page for the Table of Contents

• Place your cursor at the beginning of your document.
• Press Ctrl + Enter to create a page break for the new Table of Contents page.

Step 2: Insert the Table of Contents

• Click on Insert in the top menu.
• Select Table of Contents and choose the option with Page Numbers.
• You'll see a placeholder for the Table of Contents, but it won’t display any headings yet.

Step 3: Define Headings for the Table of Contents

• Go through your document and select each section title or heading.
• Click on Format in the top menu, then select Paragraph styles.
• Apply Heading 1 to the main headings. You can use the shortcut Ctrl + Alt + 1 for quicker access.

Step 4: Customize Heading Appearance (Optional)

• If you want to change the appearance of your headings:
  • Format your heading as desired (font style, size, color, etc.).
  • Click on Format, then Paragraph styles, and choose Update 'Heading 1' to match to save your changes.

Step 5: Apply Headings Throughout the Document

• Repeat Step 3 for any additional headings in your document, applying Heading 1 or other heading styles as needed.

Step 6: Refresh the Table of Contents

• Scroll back up to the Table of Contents placeholder.
• Click on the placeholder text, then click the refresh icon (usually a circular arrow) to update the Table of Contents with the newly defined headings and their corresponding page numbers.

Conclusion

You have now successfully created a Table of Contents in Google Docs that includes page numbers. Remember to refresh the ToC periodically if you add or modify headings in your document. This feature not only improves navigation but also enhances the professionalism of your document. Consider exploring additional formatting options in Google Docs to further customize your document's appearance.