For what purpose is adding a Table of Contents to a transcript considered best practice?

Adding a Table of Contents to a transcript serves the primary purpose of aiding in the navigation of various sections and events. This feature is particularly useful in lengthy transcripts, as it allows readers—such as attorneys, judges, and clients—to quickly locate specific parts of the document without having to search through the text page by page. The Table of Contents provides clear references to the start of each section or event, enhancing usability and efficiency, especially in legal contexts where time may be critical.

While increasing the visual appeal of the document can be a side benefit, the functional aspect of navigation is what makes it a best practice in court reporting. Additionally, the presence of a Table of Contents does not inherently reduce the length of a transcript or influence certification outcomes, which makes the focus on improving navigation paramount in this context.