How to automatically add a table of contents to a thesis in Word.

Creating a table of contents for a thesis can be a lot of work. However, if you work in a structured way and make use of formatting styles This does not have to be the case. Word can automatically add a table of contents to a document and update it whenever changes are made to the thesis.

Step 1: Apply formatting styles to chapter and paragraph headings:

To apply formatting styles, select the chapter or paragraph heading in Word and then click on ‘Heading 1’ under ‘Home’ -> ‘Styles‘. Generally, ‘Heading 1’ is used for chapters, ‘Heading 2’ for section titles and ‘Heading 3’ for subsections. If your thesis has a different structure, you may use other formatting styles; please ensure that you apply these consistently.

Step 2: Include a table of contents:

Once all chapter and section headings have been formatted, you can also create a table of contents. To do this, place the cursor on the page where you want the table of contents to appear. Then click on the ‘References’ tab. Under this tab, you’ll find the ‘Table of contents’ function. Choose the layout you prefer.

Step 3: Update the table of contents

If you have made changes to the Word document containing your thesis, you will need to update the table of contents. You can do this by clicking on ‘Update…’.

It is also possible to update the table of contents by right-clicking on it and then selecting ‘Update Fields’. You will then be given the option to click on ‘Update page numbers only‘ or ‘Update entire table‘. If you have not added or edited any headings, ‘Update page numbers only’ will suffice. If in doubt, it is advisable to select ‘Update entire table’. The table of contents of your thesis will then be fully up to date again.