1
How-to book: Part I Foundations; 1 Define the Outcome; 2 Map the Constraints; 3 Build the First Version; Part II Improve the System.
8 Table of Contents Examples
Use these examples to study structure, specificity, tone, and variation. They are demonstrations—not claims about a real person or organization unless the example itself makes that explicit.
Before you copy
What to notice in the examples
A useful table of contents does more than enumerate chapters: its headings are consistent, informative, and sequenced so readers can see how the book or document moves from one question or stage to the next.
- Front matter entries when appropriate.
- Parts, chapters, or major sections in reading order.
- Consistent hierarchy and naming style.
- Page numbers or links in the final format where applicable.
2
Research report: Executive Summary; Method; Findings; Limitations; Recommendations; Appendix.
3
Memoir: Part One Leaving; 1 The Blue Suitcase; 2 Platform Four; 3 The Call Home; Part Two Returning.
4
Business guide: 1 Why Handoffs Fail; 2 Write the Decision; 3 Name the Owner; 4 Set the Deadline; 5 Close the Loop.
5
Textbook: Unit 1 Core Concepts; Chapter 1 Foundations; 1.1 Definition; 1.2 Examples; 1.3 Practice.
6
Novel with named chapters: 1 The Wrong Box; 2 Room 214; 3 The Missing Signature; 4 The Second Archive.
7
Recipe book: Basics; Doughs; Sauces; Weeknight Meals; Celebration Menus; Index.
8
Technical manual: Getting Started; Installation; Configuration; Daily Use; Troubleshooting; Security; Reference.
Keep the underlying decision or pattern, then replace the subject, evidence, relationship, constraints, and tone with details that belong to your situation. If your final line still works after swapping only one noun, it may be too close to the example.