How to Create a Table of Contents in WordPress

Creating a Table of Contents (ToC) in WordPress enhances user navigation and improves SEO by allowing readers to jump directly to sections of interest. Here’s a comprehensive guide on how to add a ToC to your WordPress posts or pages, both with and without plugins.​

Method 1: Using a Plugin (Easy Table of Contents)

For a straightforward and automated approach, the Easy Table of Contents plugin is a popular choice.​

Steps:

1. Install the Plugin:
   • Navigate to Plugins > Add New in your WordPress dashboard.
   • Search for “Easy Table of Contents” and click Install Now, then Activate.​
2. Configure Settings:
   • Go to Settings > Table of Contents.
   • Customize where the ToC appears (posts, pages, custom post types).
   • Choose which heading levels to include (e.g., H2, H3).
   • Adjust appearance settings like width, font size, and theme.​
3. Automatic Insertion:
   • The plugin can automatically insert the ToC based on your settings.
   • Alternatively, you can use the [toc] shortcode to place it manually within your content.​WordPress.org

This plugin supports various page builders and offers customization options to match your site’s design. ​WordPress.org

Method 2: Manual Creation Without a Plugin

If you prefer not to use a plugin, you can manually create a ToC using HTML anchors and links.​

Steps:

1. Create a List of Headings:
   • At the beginning of your post, create an ordered (<ol>) or unordered (<ul>) list.
   • List the titles of the sections you want to link to.​ryrob.com
2. Add HTML Anchors to Headings:
   • For each section heading in your content, add an HTML anchor.
   • In the WordPress block editor, click on the heading block.
   • In the right sidebar, under the “Advanced” section, enter a unique anchor ID (e.g., introduction).​WordPress.com
3. Link List Items to Anchors:
   • In your ToC list, link each item to its corresponding anchor using the # symbol followed by the anchor ID (e.g., #introduction).​
4. Style the ToC (Optional):
   • You can add custom CSS to style your ToC for better appearance and usability.​

This method gives you full control over the ToC and doesn’t rely on external plugins. ​

Additional Tips

• Use Consistent Heading Levels: Ensure your content uses hierarchical heading levels (H2, H3, etc.) appropriately for the ToC to reflect the structure accurately.​
• SEO Benefits: A well-structured ToC can enhance your search engine snippets, potentially displaying jump links in search results.​BloggingIdol
• Accessibility: Ensure that your ToC is accessible by using clear link texts and maintaining a logical structure.