How do I create a table of contents in Notion?

Creating a table of contents in Notion requires just one simple command, but the secret lies in proper preparation. You'll need to structure your page with heading blocks (H1, H2, and H3) before the table of contents can work its magic. Once you've organized your content with these headings, type `/table of contents` anywhere on your page, select the option from the dropdown menu, and watch as Notion automatically generates clickable links to each section.

The beauty of Notion's table of contents lies in its dynamic nature—it updates automatically as you add, modify, or remove headings throughout your document. This means you can focus on creating content while Notion handles the navigation structure behind the scenes. Each item in your table of contents becomes a clickable anchor link that instantly transports readers to the corresponding section, making long documents much more user-friendly.

Position matters when it comes to maximizing your table of contents' effectiveness. Most users find success placing their table of contents at the top of lengthy documents, though you can drag it anywhere using the six-dot handle that appears when you hover over the block. For pages with extensive content, consider enabling the floating table of contents feature by clicking the three dots in your page menu—this creates a persistent sidebar that scrolls with your document for constant navigation access.

However, Notion's table of contents does come with some limitations worth understanding. The feature only recognizes three heading levels (H1, H2, and H3), which may feel restrictive if you're accustomed to deeper document hierarchies in other applications. Additionally, headings buried within database cells, toggle blocks, or callouts won't appear in your table of contents, so you'll need to structure your content accordingly. The table of contents also doesn't work within Notion databases themselves, only on standard pages.

For enhanced functionality, you can create a collapsible table of contents by typing `>` above your table of contents block to create a toggle, then dragging the table of contents underneath it. This approach helps maintain clean page aesthetics while preserving navigation functionality. Remember that consistency in your heading structure not only improves your table of contents but also makes your entire document more scannable and professional-looking for readers.