How to Write a Table of Contents

Most research papers and reports contain a Table of Contents, which usually follows the title page. The Table of Contents organizes your paper by subject matter and lists the corresponding page numbers. The Table of Contents must also include page numbers for the Bibliography and Appendix. Typically, you will write the Table of Contents after the report is complete.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

1. Write the report before you write the Table of Contents. If you decide to write the Table of Contents first, use it as a general guideline for your writing.
2. Decide how you want to structure your document.
3. Create your subject headings. Include subject headings at the top of each section within your report.
4. Determine if certain headings require subheadings. If so, list them under the general heading.
5. Start a new page and write "Table of Contents" centered at the top.
6. Create two columns. List the subject headings in the left column and if there are subheadings indent or tab your cursor and list them underneath one another. Then list, the corresponding page numbers in the right column.
7. Flip through your report and check that your subject headings and page numbers match correctly.

Tips & Warnings

• Consider using subheadings throughout your report and in your Table of Contents if your section headings are too general.
• Check if your computer program has a tool to structure a table of contents.
• Follow style guidelines from your instructor or publisher.

Who Can Help:

• Learn more today about America's leading online University
• Flexible Scheduling, Online Programs, Get Info Now