In the world of digital content, user experience is king. A key part of this experience is navigation. If your readers can’t find what they’re looking for quickly and easily, they will likely leave your site and look elsewhere. Fortunately, many WordPress table of contents plugins are available that will enhance user experience and optimize your website’s performance.
Choosing the perfect TOC plugin might seem like a Herculean task, but don’t worry; we’ve got your back. To help you narrow down your choices among the plethora of WordPress table of contents plugins available, we’ll compare the top 7 WordPress TOC plugins of 2023 and discuss their additional features and pricing options.
In this article, we’ll dive deep into understanding why a TOC plugin is essential, its SEO benefits, and our top selection criteria for choosing the perfect plugin.
Understanding Table of contents (TOC) and TOC plugins
What is a Table of Contents (TOC)?
A table of contents is a list of hyperlinks that lead to different page sections or posts on your site. It’s particularly useful for long-form content, as it highlights the critical sections of an article, allowing readers to jump to the section most relevant to their needs.
What is a WordPress TOC plugin?
A WordPress table of contents plugin is a tool that allows you to automatically generate a table of contents for your blog posts, pages, or other types of content.
Why Use a TOC Plugin?
It’s no coincidence that a TOC for your WordPress site can significantly improve user experience and SEO. Creating a table of contents for each of your WordPress posts can be time-consuming, especially if you frequently publish long-form content.
A TOC WordPress plugin can automatically generate a table of contents based on your content’s headings, saving you time and ensuring consistency across your site. Some WordPress table of contents plugins also offers advanced settings geared towards improving search engine optimization.
Moreover, a table of contents plugin offers customization options that allow you to adjust the appearance and functionality of your table of contents to match your site’s design and your readers’ preferences. For instance, you can choose whether to display the table of contents as a sidebar widget or within the content itself and whether to include links to all heading levels or only to certain ones.
Understanding SEO Benefits of Using TOC Plugins
Improved User Experience and Engagement:
- Anchor links provided by the plugin enable easy navigation within long-form content.
- Users can quickly jump to specific sections, enhancing the reading experience.
- Reduced bounce rates contribute to higher user engagement.
Enhanced Search Engine Visibility:
- Search engines like Google prioritize well-structured content with clear headings and subheadings.
- A table of contents plugin highlights these sections, making them more visible to search engines.
- Better indexing and understanding of content by search engines improve the chances of higher rankings.
Higher Organic Traffic:
- Google can automatically add jump links to different sections of your post, next to your website in the search results.
- By facilitating better accessibility and understandability of content, the plugin attracts more visitors to your website.
Accessible and Searchable Long-Form Content:
- Implementing a table of contents plugin makes long-form content more accessible to users.
- Users can easily locate and navigate through different sections, promoting a positive user experience.
- Search engines can index the content more effectively, making it searchable for relevant queries.
How to Choose a WordPress Table of Contents Plugin?
When choosing a WordPress table of contents plugin, consider the following factors:
- Ease of Use: The plugin should be user-friendly, allowing you to configure its settings and customize its appearance easily.
- Customization Options: Look for a plugin that offers a range of customization options, such as the ability to choose which heading levels to include in the table of contents, adjust the table’s position on the page, and customize its design.
- Compatibility: The plugin should be compatible with the latest WordPress version, WordPress themes, and any other WordPress plugins used on your site.
- SEO Features: Some table of contents plugins offer SEO features, such as the ability to include the table of contents in your site’s HTML code, which can help improve your site’s search engine optimization.
- Support and Updates: Choose a regularly updated plugin that offers reliable support in case you encounter any issues.
Review of the 10 Best WordPress Table of Contents Plugins
The top table of contents WordPress plugins are:
- AIOSEO
- LuckyWP Table of Contents Plugin
- Easy Table of Contents
- Rich Table of Contents
- SimpleTOC
- Heroic Table of Contents Plugin
- Joli Table Of Contents Plugin
- CM Table Of Contents
- Fixed TOC
- Ultimate Blocks
AIOSEO
AIOSEO, short for All In One SEO, is a powerful SEO plugin that has been downloaded over 100 million times. It’s a trusted tool among marketers aiming to rank and drive targeted traffic to their WordPress sites. AIOSEO’s Table of Contents block is super easy to use, making it one of the best WordPress table of contents plugins around.
Features
- Identifies headings on a page and automatically adds them to your table of contents
- Allows customization of your table of contents to suit your needs, including the first heading block
- Can hide elements of the table of contents
- Offers powerful customization options
- SEO-friendly and translation ready
Pros
- Easy to use
- Automatically identifies and adds headings to the table of contents
- Offers customization options to suit your needs
- SEO-friendly
Cons
- The free version has limited features
- The premium version may be expensive for some users
Pricing
AIOSEO starts at $49.60 for an annual plan of the SEO plugin. A free version is also available.
User reviews
User reviews highlight the ease of use and powerful customization options offered by AIOSEO. Users also appreciate that they don’t need to install another plugin to add a table of contents to their WordPress posts.
LuckyWP Table of Contents Plugin
LuckyWP is a popular table of contents WordPress plugin that makes it easy to add SEO-friendly tables of contents to your pages, posts, or custom post types. It’s compatible with almost all popular page builders, so you can use it on any WordPress site. You can use a shortcode, widget, or WordPress content editor block to add TOC anywhere on your WordPress website.
Features
- Automatically generates the TOC, or you can manually add
- Control the number of headings to include in the table of contents
- Option to no-index your table of contents
- High Compatibility with Elementor, RankMath, and many WordPress plugins
- Multiple customization options
- 3 options to add the table of contents
- Pre-built color schemes
Pros
- Easy to add SEO-friendly tables of contents
- Compatible with almost all popular page builders
- Offers control over the number of headings to include in the table of contents
Cons
- It hasn’t been tested with recent major releases of WordPress
- Some users may find the interface less intuitive than other plugins
Pricing
LuckyWP Table of Contents is a free plugin.
User reviews
Users appreciate the SEO-friendly features of LuckyWP Table of Contents. The compatibility with popular page builders and the control over the number of headings to include in the table of contents are also popular features among users.
Easy Table of Contents
As the name suggests, Easy Table of Contents is a user-friendly plugin that makes adding a table of contents to any page or post on your WordPress site a breeze. With over 300,000 active installs, it’s a popular choice in the WordPress community.
Features
- Supports smooth scrolling
- Works seamlessly with WordPress block editor, Divi, Elementor, classic editor, and more.
- Offers multiple counter bullet formats
- Rankmath integration
- Selective Heading Levels
- Allows automatic table of contents insertion according to post type
Pros
- Easy to use
- Supports smooth scrolling
- Compatible with most popular page builders
- Allows automatic and manual insertion of the table of contents
Cons
- Limited customization options compared to some other plugins
- Some users report compatibility issues with certain themes
Pricing
Easy Table of Contents is a free plugin but offers a premium version starting at $49 per year.
User reviews
Users praise Easy Table of Contents for its simplicity and functionality. They appreciate its compatibility with popular page builders and the option to insert the table of contents according to post type automatically.
Rich Table of Contents
Rich Table of Contents (RTOC) is a simple yet effective table of contents plugin designed with non-technical users in mind. It allows you to create a beautiful table of contents with a single click and offers basic customization options.
Features
- Clean and intuitive user interface
- Animated table of contents
- Smooth scroll
Pros
- Simple to use
- Offers a clean and intuitive user interface
- Provides an animated table of contents for a more engaging user experience
Cons
- It lacks some advanced features offered by other plugins
Pricing
Rich Table of Contents is a free plugin.
User reviews
Users appreciate the simplicity and ease of use offered by Rich Table of Contents. They also like the animated table of contents feature, which adds an engaging element to their WordPress posts.
SimpleTOC
SimpleTOC is a user-friendly table of contents plugin designed specifically for Gutenberg, the default WordPress editor. It’s a great choice for those who want a simple, no-frills solution for adding a table of contents to their posts. With over 10,000 active installations, SimpleTOC is trusted by a large number of WordPress users.
Features
- Basic TOC features and beginner friendly: SimpleTOC is a user-friendly WordPress table of contents plugin that provides basic features for beginners.
- Heading levels options: You can choose the minimum or maximum heading levels that should be included in TOC.
- Designed for Gutenberg: SimpleTOC is built to work seamlessly with the Gutenberg editor.
- Zero configuration: Add the SimpleTOC block to your post, and you’re good to go.
- Minimal and valid HTML output: The plugin produces clean and valid HTML, ensuring your site remains optimized for search engines.
- No JavaScript or CSS added: SimpleTOC doesn’t add any additional JavaScript or CSS to your site, keeping it lightweight and fast.
- Customizable: Administrators can utilize global settings to supersede the individual block settings, allowing for a high degree of customization.
Pros
- Easy to use with zero configuration required.
- Produces minimal and valid HTML output.
- Doesn’t add any additional JavaScript or CSS.
- Highly customizable with global settings.
Cons
- Some users may find the customization options limited compared to other plugins.
- The fixed display of the table of contents may not be suitable for all types of content.
Pricing
SimpleTOC is a free plugin available on the WordPress plugin repository.
User reviews
Users have praised SimpleTOC for its ease of use and automatic generation of the table of contents. They have also appreciated the support provided by the developer. However, some users have expressed a desire for more customization options.
Heroic Table of Contents Plugin
Heroic Table of Contents is a fantastic plugin that automatically detects your subheadings and adds them to your table of contents. It offers multiple customization options and an intuitive user interface.
Features
- Easy to use
- 4 pre-made table of contents styles to choose from
- Collapsible table of contents
- Mobile-friendly
Pros
- Automatically detects subheadings and adds them to the table of contents
- Offers multiple customization options
- Mobile-friendly
Cons
- The free version has limited features
- The premium version may be expensive for some users
Pricing
Heroic Table of Contents is a free plugin.
User reviews
Users appreciate the automatic detection of subheadings and the multiple customization options offered by Heroic Table of Contents. The mobile-friendly design is also a plus for users who want their WordPress posts to be accessible on all devices.
Joli Table Of Contents Plugin
Joli Table of Contents is a high-performing table of contents plugin that prioritizes page load speed. It prevents scripts and styles from loading when the table of contents is not displayed, which can help your pages load faster. The table of contents only loads when it’s supposed to display, and it’s fully responsive, so you don’t have to worry about optimizing it for different devices.
Features
- SEO friendly
- Choose between a hierarchical or flat view
- Fully responsive
- Multiple themes available
- Customizable table of contents (change the font size, adjust the table’s width, add a shadow and more)
Pros
- Lightweight
- Prioritizes page load speed
- Fully responsive
- Offers multiple themes
Cons
- Some users may find the customization options limited compared to other plugins
Pricing
Joli Table of Contents is a free plugin. Paid plans start at $39.99.
User reviews
Users appreciate the speed optimization features of the Joli Table of Contents. The choice between a hierarchical or flat view and the multiple themes available are also popular features among users.
CM Table Of Contents
CM Table Of Contents is a beginner-friendly WordPress table of contents plugin that easily generates a table of contents on any page or blog post. Despite being easy to use, the plugin is also feature-rich, especially when you opt for the paid version.
Features
- Define your table of contents by tags, classes, and ids
- Different style options for the navigation table font size
- Shortcodes for custom placement of the table of contents
- Supports multilevel table of contents
Pros
- Easy to use
- Offers different style options for the navigation table font size
- Supports multilevel table of contents
Cons
- Some users may find the interface less intuitive than other plugins
Pricing
CM Table Of Contents has a free plan available. Paid plans start at $29.
User reviews
Users appreciate the ease of use and the different style options offered by CM Table Of Contents. The support for a multilevel table of contents is also a popular feature among users.
Fixed TOC
Fixed TOC is a powerful and neatly coded plugin for WordPress. It scans headings through the post content automatically and creates the table of contents, which is fixed in the page display. This plugin can greatly enhance the reading experience of your audience.
Features
- Automatic heading detection
- Fixed TOC widget
- Customizable appearance
- Supports the majority of themes
- Translation ready
Pros
- Enhances user experience by providing easy navigation.
- Saves time as it automatically generates the table of contents.
- Customizable to match your website design.
- Supports most WordPress website themes.
- Ready for translation into any language.
Cons
- Some users may find the customization options limited compared to other plugins.
- The fixed display of the table of contents may not be suitable for all types of content.
Pricing
Fixed TOC is a premium plugin. It costs $20 for a regular license, which includes future updates and 6 months of support from the developer.
User reviews
Users have praised Fixed TOC for its ease of use and automatic generation of the table of contents. They have also appreciated the support provided by the developer. However, some users have expressed a desire for more customization options.
Ultimate Blocks
Ultimate Blocks is a Gutenberg blocks plugin designed specifically for bloggers and marketers. It aims to make content creation easier and more engaging with Gutenberg. Trusted by over 50,000 users, Ultimate Blocks offers a variety of blocks to help you create the perfect blog posts for your audience.
Features
- Content Filter: Allows your visitors to filter content based on different filters, enhancing user experience.
- Review Block: Adds a review block with product name, features, summary, button, and star rating. It is Schema Markup enabled.
- Table of Contents Block: Generates a table of contents from your headings.
- Tabbed Content Block: Adds content in tabs in your posts/pages. It comes with a drag-and-drop feature to sort the tabs.
- Content Toggle: Adds contents in accordions. Let visitors expand them and show the content.
- Progress Bar Block: Adds Circle/Line Progress bar with options for changing thickness and color.
- Post Grid Block: Adds a list or grid of your posts. It comes with options to change categories, orders, and many more.
- Star Rating Block: Adds Star ratings to your posts/pages. You can customize the size, color, and number of stars.
- Image Slider Block: Add a lightweight, simple image slider to your post. Comes with additional settings.
- Button Block: Button block with more customization options and controls.
- Divider Block: Adds a custom divider between your blocks. Customize the color, size, and everything.
Pros
- Offers a wide variety of blocks for different purposes.
- Enhances user experience with features like content filter and tabbed content.
- Allows for customization of blocks to match your website design.
- SEO friendly, optimized for website speed and performance.
- Supports FAQ Schema.
Cons
- As it offers a wide variety of blocks, it might take some time to explore and understand all the features.
- Some users might find the plugin a bit overwhelming due to the number of options available.
Pricing
Ultimate Blocks is a free plugin available on the WordPress plugin repository but also offers a premium version starting at $69/year.
User reviews
Users have praised Ultimate Blocks for its wide variety of blocks and customization options. They have also appreciated the plugin’s ease of use and the support provided by the developers.
Which is the Best Table of Contents WordPress Plugin for you?
Selecting the best table of contents plugin for your WordPress site depends on your specific needs, preferences, and the nature of your content. Here’s a brief overview of the plugins we’ve discussed and who they might be best suited for:
1. AIOSEO Plugin for Table of Contents
AIOSEO is a comprehensive SEO plugin that’s ideal for those who want to optimize their entire website for SEO, not just their table of contents. It’s packed with advanced features and integrates with various platforms and tools. If you’re looking for a plugin that can handle more than just your table of contents, AIOSEO is a great choice.
2. LuckyWP Table of Contents Plugin
LuckyWP is a versatile plugin that’s suitable for both beginners and advanced users. It offers a range of customization options and supports multiple post types. If you want a plugin that’s easy to use but still offers a decent amount of customization, consider LuckyWP.
3. Easy Table of Contents
As the name suggests, Easy Table of Contents is a user-friendly plugin that’s perfect for beginners. It’s a straightforward solution for those who want to create a simple table of contents without any fuss. If you’re new to WordPress or prefer simplicity over advanced features, this plugin is for you.
4. Rich Table of Contents
Rich Table of Contents is a versatile plugin that’s suitable for those who want a balance between simplicity and functionality. It offers a range of customization options and supports multiple counter bullet formats. If you want a plugin that’s easy to use but still offers a decent amount of customization, consider Rich Table of Contents.
5. Simple TOC
Simple TOC is a lightweight and straightforward plugin that’s perfect for those who want a no-frills solution for creating a table of contents. If you’re new to WordPress or prefer simplicity over advanced features, Simple TOC is a great choice.
6. Heroic Table of Contents Plugin
The Heroic Table of Contents plugin is a robust solution for those who want a feature-rich plugin. It offers a wide range of customization options and supports multiple post types. If you’re a power user who wants to customize every aspect of your table of contents, this plugin is worth considering.
7. Joli Table Of Contents Plugin
Joli Table of Contents is a lightweight plugin that’s ideal for those who want a minimalistic solution. It’s easy to use and doesn’t add unnecessary bulk to your website. If you’re looking for a plugin that’s lightweight and easy to use, Joli Table of Contents is a good choice.
8. CM Table Of Contents
CM Table of Contents is a premium plugin that’s ideal for those who want a professional-grade solution. It offers a wide range of advanced features and supports multiple post types. If you’re a professional who needs a high-quality table of contents plugin, CM Table of Contents is worth considering.
9. Fixed TOC
Fixed TOC is a powerful plugin that’s perfect for those who want a fixed table of contents that remains visible as the user scrolls through the page. It offers a range of customization options and supports multiple post types. If you want a plugin that offers a fixed table of contents, Fixed TOC is a great choice.
10. Ultimate Blocks
Ultimate Blocks is a comprehensive plugin that’s ideal for those who want to enhance their Gutenberg editor with custom blocks, including a table of contents block. If you’re a Gutenberg user looking for a plugin that offers a wide range of custom blocks, Ultimate Blocks is a fantastic choice.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right table of contents plugin for your WordPress site can significantly enhance your user experience and SEO. It can make your long-form content more readable and navigable, leading to increased user engagement and lower bounce rates.
In this article, we’ve reviewed 10 of the best WordPress table of contents plugins available in 2023. Each of these plugins has its unique features, pros, and cons.
Remember, the best TOC plugin for you is the one that fits your needs the best. So, take your time to explore these options and choose the one that suits your WordPress site the best.
FAQs
Does using a TOC plugin impact my website’s loading speed?
Using a table of contents plugin can slightly impact your website’s loading speed and performance. However, choosing a lightweight and well-optimized plugin minimizes this effect, ensuring smooth navigation without compromising your site’s performance.
How do I install a table of contents plugin on WordPress?
To install a table of contents plugin, you’ll need to go to your WordPress dashboard, navigate to the “Plugins” section, and click on “Add New.” From there, you can search for the plugin you want to install, click “Install Now,” and then activate the plugin once the installation is complete. Customize the plugin’s settings according to your needs and enjoy using the plugin.
Can I customize the table of contents generated by these plugins?
Yes, most table of contents plugins for WordPress offer a range of customization options. You can typically choose which headings to include in the table of contents, adjust the appearance of the table, and decide where on your page or post the table should appear.
Are there free table of contents plugins for WordPress?
Yes, there are many free table of contents plugins available for WordPress. Some of these offer a range of features and customization options, while others are more basic.
How can I create a table of contents in WordPress without a plugin?
Creating a table of contents in WordPress without a plugin involves manually adding anchor links to your headers and then creating a list of these links at the beginning of your post. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
- Add Anchor Links to Your Headers: The first step is to add anchor links to your headers. To do this, switch to the Text editor in WordPress and add an ID to each of your headers. For example, if you have a header titled “Introduction”, you might add the ID “introduction” like this: <h2 id=”introduction”>Introduction</h2>.
- Create a List of Links: Next, you’ll need to create a list of links at the beginning of your post. Each link should correspond to one of your headers. Using the “Introduction” example, you might create a link like this: <a href=”#introduction”>Introduction</a>.
- Format Your Table of Contents: Finally, you’ll want to format your table of contents so that it’s easy to read. You might create a bulleted list or use headers to separate different sections.
While this method doesn’t require a plugin, it can be time-consuming, especially for longer posts. It also doesn’t offer the same level of customization or automatic updating as a dedicated table of contents plugin.
The 10 Best WordPress Table of Contents Plugins in 2023