Word: Create list of figures - so it'll work

A list of figures in Word is part of every scientific work and is easy to create. Whenever you insert tables, photos and graphics in the text or appendix, the directory must not be missing.

List of figures in Word: Prepare graphics

For a list of figures you have to format the graphics in Word and name them correctly:

1. Right-click on the graphic and select "Insert caption".
2. Under "Description" you can now choose between "Illustration", "Formula", and "Table" or enter a term.
3. In the "Caption" field you have to name your image even more precisely, for example: "Figure 1: Screenshot from CHIP.de, May 2014". Then click on "OK".

• You can still move the image and the caption in the Word document and adapt it to your layout.

Create list of figures from captions

When the work is finished and each picture is in the right place, you can insert the list of figures. You can position this either below the table of contents or in the appendix.

1. Click in the document where you want to insert the directory.
2. Then call up the "References" menu and click on "Insert list of figures" in the "Captions" box.
3. You will now see the preview under "Print preview". All changes, for example the removal of the fill characters, are displayed here. For example, you can choose not to display fill characters between the label and the page number.
4. When you click "OK", the list of figures is inserted into Word.
5. Finally, you can format and move the list of figures as normal.

Another practical tip will show you how to format your table of contents correctly in Word.