Flipbook Table of Contents Design: 20 Visual Templates to Learn From

Last update: July 24, 2025

Web-based tables of contents are built for fast navigation on websites, blogs, or help centers. They often sit at the top of the page or float in a sidebar. They help readers jump straight to what they’re looking for without scrolling endlessly.

But what about interactive digital publications like flipbooks, brochures, or online magazines?

A completely different experience. Unlike a webpage, flipbooks mimic the feel of printed publications. They’re often viewed in full-screen mode, shared as standalone links, or embedded into websites. With these kinds of publications, readers can either be scrolling or flipping through pages. 

This is where a clickable, well-placed table of contents becomes essential.

In digital documents, the TOC usually appears in the first few pages and is built with internal links that jump to specific sections or chapters. It has to work on desktops, tablets, and phones, and it has to look good doing it. Navigation needs to feel seamless within the flow of the publication.

This guide covers how to design a table of contents that works inside digital documents like flipbooks, brochures, and digital magazines with practical design tips and ready-to-use templates to get you started.

Let’s start with how to create a table of contents.

How to create a table of contents in Flipsnack

Flipsnack makes it easy to add a clickable table of contents to your flipbooks, whether you’re uploading a PDF or starting from scratch.

1. Import from a PDF

If your uploaded PDF already includes a well-formatted TOC, Flipsnack can automatically detect it. Just make sure the file isn’t exported as spreads and that the TOC is properly structured (especially if you’re using tools like InDesign or Acrobat Pro). When detected, the table of contents will be active by default in your flipbook’s navigation bar.

2. Create a TOC manually

If your PDF doesn’t have a built-in TOC or you’re building your flipbook in Flipsnack, you can create one from scratch:

• Go to the Customize page.
• Click Table of contents in the left-hand menu.
• Activate the feature, then click Add new to insert chapters or subchapters.
• You can assign names, link them to specific pages, and reorder or remove them at any time.

2.1 Edit or update anytime

You can access and update your TOC from three places:

• The Main Dashboard (Customize > Table of Contents)
• The Details Page under your flipbook preview
• Directly from the Design Studio via the Customize Preview button

Chapters are linked to pages, not static numbers, so if you rearrange or delete pages, the TOC will stay synced or let you fix broken links easily.

2.2 Make the TOC open by default

To help readers find content faster, you can choose to have the table of contents open automatically when someone views your flipbook:

• Go to Customize > Table of contents
• Check Start with table of contents open
• Optionally, save this as a default for future flipbooks

This is especially helpful for longer documents or complex layouts.

With that in mind, it’s time to explore content page design.

Content page design examples from ready-to-use templates

Here are some table of contents examples that show how to hook readers and help them navigate your content with ease.

1. Modern classic layout for corporate content

This table of contents features a white background and a modern look with a slight classic touch. It introduces the reader to the company magazine while keeping the layout clean and easy to follow. Both the page numbers and chapter titles are clickable, adding interactivity from the very beginning.

The vertically placed “Table of Contents” label and the oversized chapter numbers draw attention, making this simple design more engaging.

2. High-contrast layout with interactive details

Here’s a table of contents example that uses a bold, modern layout to set the tone for a forward-looking digital magazine. The large “Index” title draws immediate attention, while the rest of the page balances white space with high-contrast accents in neon green and black. Each section features a clickable icon next to the title.

The content is split across two pages and organized clearly, with page numbers aligned to the right for easy scanning. Oversized numbers and strong headings make navigation intuitive.

Graphic elements like quotes and icons are used to add visual rhythm without overwhelming the layout. Overall, it’s a clean, reader-friendly design that combines function with style.

3. Split-page design with cinematic impact

This contents page design uses a bold split layout—black editorial column on the left, full-bleed landscape visual on the right—to create a sense of movement and drama. The oversized “CONTENTS” heading breaks across two lines for visual tension, while a clean, vertical list of page links floats above the terrain photo.

The contrast between sharp typography and sweeping imagery makes this layout feel modern and cinematic. Ideal for publications in automotive, tech, or innovation-focused industries that want to balance storytelling with impact.

4. Minimal grid with subtle decorative cues

Minimal and structured, this table of contents design uses a soft green background and clean black text to keep the focus on clarity. Page numbers and section titles are aligned in a neat row, separated by thin lines for easy scanning. Decorative arrow icons add just enough visual interest without disrupting the grid. The vertical “INDEX” label on the left reinforces the theme while making smart use of space.

5. Hand-drawn accents with editorial energy

Playful typography and hand-drawn style highlights give this content page design a casual, energetic feel.

Page numbers are circled in bright colors, making them stand out against the clean white background. The layout is clear and vertical, with impactful headings and short descriptions under each section. A full-page photo on the right adds balance and visual contrast without distracting from the content list.

6. Tech-centric grid with visual anchors

Bold numbers, large headings, and strong visuals give this content page design a tech-forward feel. The layout uses a two-column grid, balancing white space with product imagery and short blurbs under each section. 

Visual hierarchy is clear, and each item feels distinct. A full-page teaser on the right acts as a visual hook, encouraging readers to explore more.

7. Minimal corporate with a typographic twist

Clean and professional, this table of contents template uses all-caps titles and arrow icons to create a clear visual path through the page. The vertical “CONTENTS” wordmark adds a touch of creativity without disrupting the layout. 

Content is split into two columns, with brief text under each heading to give readers quick context. A great fit for proposals, internal briefings, or marketing decks where clarity comes first.

8. Editorial grid with creative overlap

This contents page uses a modular grid layout that blends type, visuals, and space in a balanced but experimental way. The oversized “CONTENTS” header breaks into the margins, adding visual drama without clutter. 

Content blocks are staggered and varied—some with preview images, others with short descriptions—giving the spread a dynamic, editorial feel. Ideal for creative publications, student-led issues, or any design-forward magazine.

9. Bold grid with a digital edge

A table of contents design that uses a two-column grid and high-contrast typography to deliver a clean, digital-native table of contents. Section titles are aligned with evenly spaced page numbers, each labeled with “PAG.” in a distinct purple to guide the eye.

The heavy-weight “CONTENTS” heading anchors the layout, while the use of all caps and minimal dividers keeps everything structured and easy to scan. Perfect for marketing reports, trend decks, or thought leadership publications.

10. Editorial blocks with vertical flow

This contents page mixes structured typography with a playful grid. Each section is boxed and paired with visuals or short blurbs, giving every topic room to stand out. 

Vertical text on the left draws attention to the page theme, while the right-hand column finishes with a high-contrast editor’s note on a bold yellow background. It’s a magazine-style layout built for storytelling and strong visual pacing.

11. Sleek course catalog with a futuristic feel

Here we have a contents page example that combines dark mode styling with bright accents to create a visually striking course catalog. 

The table of contents is presented as a compact list, with numbered sections and aligned page references that keep navigation quick and simple. On the opposite page, clean white space and rounded containers make room for introductory text and key platform benefits. The result is a bold, modern design that feels tech-forward and learner-focused.

12. Product index with visual callouts

This contents page blends a clean product catalog format with bold visuals and a gradient background for added impact. 

The left page serves as a table of contents, using image-backed cards and quick feature highlights to guide the reader. Section headers are clear and supported by large product photos, creating a visually driven browsing experience. It’s built for fast scanning and ideal for B2B catalogs or wholesale presentations.

13. Urban grid with streetwear attitude

Built to reflect the raw edge of street fashion, this content page design immediately leans into a gritty, stylized aesthetic. Sections are organized in a grid on the right, each paired with a short description and icon to reinforce the urban theme. 

The bold green CTA and splash effects add personality without clutter. On the left, large imagery and angled layouts create visual energy, matching the tone of the collection. Perfect for fashion catalogs, youth culture publications, or digital lookbooks.

14. Editorial layout with timeless elegance

This contents page uses a classic serif typeface and monochrome palette to evoke a sense of high fashion and editorial authority. The TOC runs vertically along the left, with generous spacing between entries and short descriptions that add clarity without clutter.

The central image anchors the layout and sets a seasonal tone, while the facing page features a striking full-page portrait and brand message. It’s a refined, balanced design—perfect for fashion magazines, seasonal lookbooks, or any publication that leans into art direction and visual storytelling.

15. Industrial grid with gold visual anchors

Another content page design that uses bright color blocks, large product images, and high-contrast typography to create a clear and engaging layout for a tools and machinery catalog. 

Each category is presented with a bold visual and a page number badge, making navigation quick and intuitive. 

The design blends utility with a touch of playfulness, thanks to oversized text and floating hardware elements. Perfect for showcasing equipment-heavy content in a way that feels accessible and visually organized.

16. Soft gradient with a minimal beauty layout

This table of contents example uses a dreamy, pastel gradient background to evoke calm and elegance, perfect for beauty or lifestyle catalogs. A large “CONTENTS” text anchors the design at the bottom, while thin lines and delicate typography guide the reader through the section list. 

The right-hand column keeps things clean with just the essentials: product names and page numbers. Light, airy, and visually soothing, this layout feels polished without trying too hard.

17. Monochrome catalog with precise linework

Content page designs can take a minimalist approach and use clean typography and monochrome icons to create an understated, professional layout. The use of space and alignment gives each entry breathing room, while the two-column structure keeps the content visually balanced. Icons next to page numbers help guide navigation without overpowering the layout. 

This format is well-suited for product catalogs, professional guides, and kitchenware lookbooks where clarity comes first.

18. Bold content page design with high-Impact typography

High-contrast colors, large-scale messaging, and a compact icon-driven table of contents define this layout. The left side leads with bold statements and key stats that reinforce brand authority, while the right side supports the tone with clean visuals and sharp callouts. 

It’s a great fit for enterprise profiles, cybersecurity presentations, and high-trust industries looking to showcase clarity and confidence.

19. Tranquil resort layout with luxe appeal

Elegant typography and deep blue tones give this table of contents a refined, relaxing mood—ideal for a high-end hotel or travel brochure. The content is listed in a clean column on the left, with soft icon accents and generous spacing that enhance legibility.

On the right, a full-bleed visual of a sunset infinity pool anchors the layout and reinforces the “escape” theme. Minimal copy and balanced alignment let the visuals do the work. The result: a calm, sophisticated design that invites readers to explore without distraction.

20. Gradient-lit layout for IPO prospectuses

Soft gradients and clean typography create a modern, approachable look for this contents page example—ideal for financial, tech, or corporate publications. The structure is direct and formal, with left-aligned section titles and page numbers separated by subtle lines for clarity.

The right-hand side introduces the business context, balancing the layout with key summary points and supporting visuals. Despite the subject matter, the tone remains accessible thanks to the use of color and ample white space. This design is best suited for investor reports, company profiles, or IPO overviews.

Design tips for better content page design

Based on the templates above, here’s what we can learn about designing TOC pages that actually do their job: getting people to the content fast, while reinforcing the style and tone of the publication.

1. Start with structure

Design isn’t decoration. If your TOC doesn’t help people find what they’re looking for, it’s failing. The best layouts keep things aligned, easy to scan, and logically grouped. Two-column layouts work well when there’s more content, while single-column designs let each section breathe.

2. Typography drives hierarchy

Headings should stand out. Oversized numbers, all-caps titles, and contrasting fonts make it easier to scan the page. Serif fonts can signal elegance and tradition, while clean sans-serifs feel more modern and efficient. Whatever you choose, be consistent and don’t overload the page with styles.

3. White space is useful

Crowding every inch with content or visuals makes navigation harder. A little breathing room around each element improves legibility and makes the whole layout feel more intentional.

4. Use color to guide, not overwhelm

High-contrast colors can make headings pop and clickable elements more obvious, but too many bright tones at once compete for attention. Soft gradients or muted palettes can add mood without stealing focus. Choose one visual direction and stick to it.

5. Icons and visuals should earn their place

Icons can make a layout more intuitive, but only if they’re used consistently and clearly. Avoid mixing styles. Full-page photos or illustrations work best when they balance the layout, not when they dominate it. Visuals should support the content, not distract from it.

6. Interactivity makes navigation easier

In digital formats, clickable page numbers or section titles are a no-brainer. It’s also worth adding subtle hover states or animations—just enough to signal that something’s interactive, not so much that it feels like a game.

7. Think about rhythm, not just layout

The best TOCs create a visual rhythm. This could be done with alternating blocks, staggered sections, or variations in typography. It keeps the reader moving down the page instead of zoning out halfway through.

8. Let the content set the tone

A tech catalog shouldn’t look like a spa brochure. A fashion lookbook doesn’t need to feel like a financial report. Every design choice—type, color, spacing, layout—should support the content it introduces.

Conclusion

Whether you’re creating a flipbook, brochure, or digital magazine, your TOC should be functional, intuitive, and visually aligned with the rest of your publication.

With the right structure, smart design choices, and tools like Flipsnack, building a TOC that actually helps your audience isn’t complicated.