The Table of Contents is generated, not typed. The chronic problems with TOCs come from manual editing - inconsistent page numbers, missing headings, duplicate entries. This lesson covers the canonical layout and how to make Word or LaTeX generate it correctly.
What Belongs In The TOC
Front matter
Body
Back matter
Approval sheet
Chapter 1-5
References
Acknowledgement
Section headings (1.1, 1.2...)
Appendices
Abstract
Sub-headings (1.1.1, 1.1.2...)
Curriculum vitae
List of tables
Figures (numbered)
Index (rare)
List of figures
Tables (numbered)
Definition of terms
Layout Conventions
Front matter uses Roman numerals (i, ii, iii).
Body uses Arabic numerals (1, 2, 3).
References and appendices continue Arabic numbering.
Dot-leaders connect heading to page number.
Three heading levels are the maximum in most manuscripts.
Auto-generate The TOC
Tool
Step
MS Word
Apply Heading 1/2/3 styles, then References → Table of Contents
Google Docs
Apply Heading styles, then Insert → Table of Contents
LaTeX
Use the \tableofcontents command after \begin{document}
Discussion
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