tableOfContents

A table of contents, often abbreviated as TOC, is a navigational list that enumerates the major sections and subsections of a document. It provides an overview of the work’s structure and, in electronic formats, serves as a map that lets readers jump directly to specific content. The TOC usually includes the titles of sections and subsections and may display accompanying page numbers or clickable links.

In document preparation, the TOC is typically generated automatically from the document’s headings. By identifying levels of headings, the system compiles a hierarchical list that can be updated as content changes. Users can usually control how many levels to include, the formatting, and where the TOC appears within the document. In print layouts, the TOC includes page numbers; in digital formats, it often uses hyperlinks to internal anchors for quick navigation.

Different markup and publishing systems implement the TOC with specific syntax or controls. In LaTeX, the command \tableofcontents creates a dedicated listing page that is populated from the document’s sections. In many word processors, a table of contents is generated from built-in heading styles and can be updated with a single command. In wiki and content-management systems, a TOC may be generated automatically when there are enough headings, or controlled explicitly with directives or tags to force placement or suppression.

Accessibility considerations include ensuring that the TOC is keyboard navigable and that each entry links to readable anchors. A well-implemented TOC improves readability, orientation, and overall user experience in both printed and digital documents.