A table of contents helps readers find what they need in long articles and makes your content easier to scan. Background: how to add a table of contents in WordPress. Here is how to compare plugins.
1. Automatic, with control
The plugin should insert the table on the post types you choose, only when a page has enough headings, and let you turn it off on a single post.
2. Heading levels and exclusions
H2 only for most blogs, H2 and H3 for long guides, and a way to exclude a heading.
3. Readable anchors
#local-seo-for-restaurants is shareable; #section-7 is not. Existing heading IDs should be kept.
4. Sticky header offset
If your site has a sticky header, the target heading must not end up hidden under it.
5. Reading aids
Highlighting the current section and a slim reading progress bar help readers stay oriented.
6. Placement
After the introduction is best; a shortcode lets you choose the exact place.
7. Performance and accessibility
No jQuery, a few kilobytes, a nav element with a label, keyboard friendly.
Checklist
- Automatic with minimum headings
- Levels and exclusions
- Readable anchors
- Scroll offset
- Active section and progress bar
- Shortcode
- Lightweight and accessible
Our option
Tocly runs on every guide of this blog: scroll this page to see it, or open the demo. Also read how to make long articles easy to read.
Frequently asked questions
Does a table of contents help SEO?
It improves structure and navigation; search engines sometimes show section links.
Should I include H3 headings?
Only on long guides with real sub-sections.
Where should the table go?
Right after the introduction.