Creating a table of contents for a Markdown file
I wanted to create a table of contents (ToC) for a Markdown file and have an easy way to update the ToC as the markdown file changes. So I asked ChatGPT.
Prompt:
How can I generate a toc for a markdown file?
Answer:
Generating a table of contents (TOC) for a Markdown file can be accomplished in several ways—ranging from using command-line tools and editor extensions to writing your own script. Below are several methods, along with step-by-step instructions and insights into each approach.
...
## 2. Using Editor Extensions
### Visual Studio Code and Markdown All in One
If you use VS Code, the [Markdown All in One extension](https://marketplace.visualstudio.com/items?itemName=yzhang.markdown-all-in-one) makes generating a TOC easy:
- **Installation:**
Install the extension from the VS Code marketplace.
- **Usage:**
Open your Markdown file and open the Command Palette (`Ctrl+Shift+P` or `Cmd+Shift+P`), then type and select **"Markdown All in One: Create Table of Contents"**. The extension inserts a TOC at your cursor or replaces an existing one.
...
Option 2, namely the VSCode extension, worked great for me. It makes it easy to create a table of contents as well as updates it automatically whenever the Markdown file is modified in a relevant manner (e.g. a new heading is added).