How to Format Thesis Headings for Automatic Numbering

Academic numbering should be based on styles, not manually typed numbers. Correct style usage allows the formatter and Microsoft Word to create a reliable table of contents and consistent chapter numbering.

Recommended hierarchy

Level	Meaning	Example
Chapter	Chapter divider and header	Chapitre II : System Design
Level 1	Main section	II.1 Introduction
Level 2	Subsection	II.2.1 Hardware architecture
Level 3	Detailed subsection	II.2.1.1 Sensor node

Apply styles in Microsoft Word

1. Select the heading text.
2. Open the Home tab.
3. Choose Heading 1, Heading 2 or Heading 3.
4. Do not add the Roman chapter prefix manually unless your custom template specifically requires it.
5. Repeat the same style logic in every chapter file.

Avoid these common mistakes

• Using bold Normal text instead of a real heading style.
• Typing different numbering formats in different chapters.
• Skipping from Heading 1 directly to Heading 3.
• Using tabs and spaces to align titles.
• Including the chapter title again at the beginning of the uploaded chapter file when the formatter already creates a divider page.

Why styles matter

Word uses heading styles to generate the table of contents, navigate through the document, maintain a consistent hierarchy and update numbering. The formatter also uses these styles to identify the intended title level.