Update Table of Contents in Word
The Table of Contents (TOC) in Microsoft Word is a fantastic tool if you know how to use it correctly. Updating it automatically is easy if you know how. Read on below to learn more.
Quick Reference Steps
- Place Your Cursor in the TOC
- Click anywhere within the Table of Contents to select it
- Press the F9 key on your keyboard
OR
- Right-click anywhere within the TOC
- From the context menu that appears, select ‘Update Field’
- Choose Update Options (if prompted)
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Table of Contents
Update Table of Contents in Word (TOC)
Updating the Table of Contents (TOC) in Microsoft Word is a simple process. Here’s the easy way to update it:
Place Your Cursor in the TOC: Click anywhere within the Table of Contents to select it.
Update Automatically:
Press the F9 key on your keyboard. This keyboard shortcut is used to update fields in Word, including the TOC.
OR
Right-click anywhere within the TOC.
From the context menu that appears, select “Update Field.”
Choose Update Options (if prompted):
If Word prompts you with an “Update Table of Contents” dialog box, you can choose whether to update the entire table or just the page numbers. Usually, selecting “Update entire table” is the most common choice.
Verify the Updated TOC
Your Table of Contents should now be updated with the latest headings and page numbers from your document.
Remember that the TOC in Word is a field, and you need to update it manually whenever you make changes to your document’s headings or page numbers. Using the F9 key or the “Update Field” option is the easiest way to ensure your TOC is always up to date.
Please note that the specific steps may vary slightly depending on the version of Microsoft Word you are using, but the general process remains the same.
Automated Table of Contents
If you are not using the automated Table of Contents feature in Word, then the method above will not work.
Using the Table of Contents feature in Microsoft Word is remarkably simple. First, just apply heading styles to your document’s sections or headings. Then, go to the location where you want to insert the TOC, click “References” on the ribbon, and select “Table of Contents.”
Word will automatically generate a TOC based on your headings. To update it, just click within the TOC, press ‘F9’ or right-click and choose “Update Field,” ensuring your document’s structure is reflected accurately. This straightforward process ensures a neatly organized and easily updatable table of contents for your document.
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How to Make MS Word Easier to Use
Begin by customising the ribbon to improve your experience with Microsoft Word and make it easier to use. Make it easy to access your most commonly used commands by customising it.
Learn important keyboard shortcuts like Ctrl+S for saving, Ctrl+C for copying, and Ctrl+V for pasting. Mastering these shortcuts can substantially increase your productivity.
By going to Word Options > General, you can enable the Mini Toolbar. When you choose text, this feature displays important formatting options, allowing you to make quick and easy formatting changes.
Use the AutoCorrect and AutoText functions in Word. AutoCorrect can automatically correct typical typing errors, while AutoText allows you to easily save and input commonly used text or pictures.
If you prefer speaking to typing, look into Word’s dictation and voice command features. These features can considerably improve your document creation and editing capabilities.
Also check out how to fix margins in MS Word.
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