Which table of contents style should I choose?

The first style shows black text with page numbers, the second uses a dotted tab leader style, and the third shows blue links with no page numbers. Choose the one that fits how the document will be read.

Where does the table of contents appear?

It appears at the position of your cursor when you choose a style, so place the cursor where you want it before opening the Insert menu.

How to add a table of contents in Google Docs

Add a table of contents in Google Docs from the Insert menu. Choose a style and Docs lists the headings in your document with page numbers.

Quick answer

Place your cursor where the table should go, open the Insert menu, point to Page elements, then Table of contents, and choose a style. Docs builds the list from the headings in your document and shows each one with its page number, ready to read at a glance.

Steps at a glance

Open the Insert menu.
Point to Page elements.
Point to Table of contents.
Choose a table of contents style.
Check the headings and page numbers in the list.

Interactive demo

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Summary

A table of contents lists the headings in your document so readers can see its structure at a glance. Google Docs builds it from your headings, so a well-structured document gets a useful one in a few clicks.

Step-by-step guide

Step 1
Open the Insert menu
Click the cursor into your document where the table should appear, usually at the top. Then click **Insert** in the menu bar to open the menu. Your document needs headings for the table to list.
Step 2
Point to Page elements
In the Insert menu, point to **Page elements**. A submenu opens beside it with the options for items that sit on the page, including the table of contents.
Step 3
Point to Table of contents
In the submenu, point to **Table of contents**. Three style choices appear next to it: one with black text and page numbers, one with a dotted tab leader style, and one with blue links and no page numbers.
Step 4
Choose a table of contents style
Click **Table of contents with black text and page numbers**. Docs inserts the table at your cursor right away. Pick one of the other two styles instead if you prefer a dotted leader or blue links.
Step 5
Check the table of contents
Look at the new table in your document. Each heading is listed in order, with its page number on the right, and sub-headings are indented under the heading above them.

Why this matters

You have a long project plan with several sections, and readers keep asking where things are. A table of contents at the top shows every section with its page number, so people can find what they need without scrolling.

Frequently asked questions

Which table of contents style should I choose?
The first style shows black text with page numbers, the second uses a dotted tab leader style, and the third shows blue links with no page numbers. Choose the one that fits how the document will be read.
Where does the table of contents appear?
It appears at the position of your cursor when you choose a style, so place the cursor where you want it before opening the Insert menu.

Continue with more step-by-step guides for getting work done.