Using Headings Effectively: Correct Grouping
On this screen and the following three screens, there are some guidelines to help you use headings effectively.
Headings, whether they are chapter titles, section headings, or subsection headings, show the reader the relationship between groupings of information. Each grouping of information should have a heading at the appropriate level so that this relationship can be seen easily.
Examples
The following examples show two versions of a table of contents for a report. The left column shows incorrect grouping with the main sections (in boldface type) subdivided into only one topic. The right column demonstrates correct grouping with each of the main sections subdivided into more than one topic.
Incorrect grouping |
Correct grouping |
The rationale for grouping |
Features of Good Program Design in Africa Targets areas with high rates of poverty and community involvement |
Features of Good Program Design in Africa Targets areas with high rate of poverty Encourages community involvement |
Note that two types of features are presented. Each feature should have a subheading and appear independently in the table of contents. |
The Market Potential for Care and Service Providers Privatized home helpers, social workers, and group homes for children |
The Market Potential for Care and Service Providers Privatized home helpers Social workers Group homes for children |
Note that three information groupings are indicated here, each requiring its own subheading. |