How to implement a table of contents in longform articles for UX and SEO

A well-structured table of contents (ToC) enhances user experience (UX) and search engine optimization (SEO) by making longform content easier to navigate. Readers can quickly find relevant sections, improving engagement and reducing bounce rates, while search engines benefit from structured data and jump links that enhance visibility in search results.

Implementing a table of contents helps:

• Improve user navigation – Readers can jump to specific sections without endless scrolling.
• Enhance SEO performance – Google may feature jump links in search results, increasing click-through rates.
• Reduce bounce rates – Users stay longer when they can find information quickly.
• Increase accessibility – Helps users with screen readers or those skimming for key content.

Step 1: Choose the best placement for your table of contents

Your ToC should be positioned where users naturally look for navigation aids.

Best placement practices:

• Near the introduction – Right after the first paragraph or a brief overview.
• In a floating sidebar – Keeps it visible as users scroll.
• As a collapsible section – Allows users to expand or hide as needed.
• At the top of the article – Ensures immediate accessibility for mobile and desktop users.

Step 2: Structure your content with proper heading hierarchy

A ToC relies on well-structured headings (<h1>, <h2>, <h3>) to generate accurate navigation links.

Best practices for heading usage:

• Use only one <h1> per page – Typically the article title.
• Organize content with <h2> for major sections – Ensures clear segmentation.
• Nest <h3> under <h2> for subsections – Adds depth and improves navigation.
• Avoid skipping heading levels – Maintain logical hierarchy (e.g., don’t jump from <h2> to <h4> without an <h3> in between).

Step 3: Implement jump links for seamless navigation

Jump links allow users to click a table of contents entry and be taken directly to that section.

How to add jump links manually:

1. Assign an id to each heading:

   <h2 id="section1">Introduction</h2>
   

2. Link to the section in your ToC:

   <a href="#section1">Introduction</a>
   

3. Repeat for all headings to create a functional ToC.

Step 4: Use plugins or tools for automated tables of contents

For WordPress and other CMS platforms, plugins simplify ToC creation.

Recommended plugins:

• Easy Table of Contents (WordPress) – Auto-generates a ToC from headings.
• Table of Contents Plus – Provides customization options and automatic insertion.
• Joomla TOC Plugin – Adds a ToC with collapsible options.
• For static HTML sites – Use JavaScript libraries like jQuery TOC Generator.

Step 5: Optimize for SEO and user experience

Google values structured content, and a well-implemented ToC can enhance search rankings.

SEO-friendly ToC strategies:

• Use descriptive anchor text – Helps search engines understand section topics.
• Ensure internal links are crawlable – Search engines should be able to follow jump links.
• Add schema markup – Helps search engines display ToC links in SERPs.
• Test mobile usability – Ensure jump links work seamlessly on all devices.

Step 6: Test and refine your table of contents

After implementation, test your ToC to ensure it enhances usability and SEO.

Testing methods:

• Manually check jump links – Ensure all ToC links navigate correctly.
• Use Google’s Mobile-Friendly Test – Confirms smooth navigation on mobile.
• Monitor engagement metrics in Google Analytics – Track user interaction with the ToC.
• Refine based on feedback – Adjust placement and styling based on user behavior.

Final thoughts

Adding a table of contents to longform articles significantly enhances usability, keeps readers engaged, and can improve search rankings. Whether implemented manually or through plugins, a well-structured ToC ensures seamless navigation and a better user experience.