How do you create a cover page and a table of contents for your graphic design portfolio?

I did my own coding (out of college) and used HTML and tripod for several years until Hover took over. I created my own graphics and photography using Photoshop and Illustrator. I used Tidy and InDesign to detect errors in code but that was in supplement to just testing the upload myself.

Microsoft Office offers a rather nice selection of covers and styles within the Design tab in both Word and PowerPoint (select Designer) for cover pages should you decide to add color and a variety of font types. It is good practice to insert a next page Section Break at the bottom of your cover page so as not to include it within page numbering when working within Word - even if you can set the first page number. This ensures that any changes to Page Layout settings do not affect the remainder of the document. Breaks can be found within the Layout tab in Word. This also must be done after a table of contents as most restart page numbers using "i, ii, iii.."

As a designer, I added my own logo. It went through a number of iterations before I decided on the final one. I coded four of my art disciplines (painting, photography, drawing, graphic design) for my landing page with images on each. I thought the visuals would work well. Admittedly, I am constantly looking for the perfect tagline. Everything on my page is my own…including any copywriting. I’ve used PowerPoint for various projects, including teaching graphic design basics and printing history. Fonts are very important in conveying the type of vibe suitable for anyone’s work and brand. I wanted sophistication and, in some cases, carefree fun types. Honestly, I am aware my website needs an overhaul or, at the very least, an update.

Creating a coherent and visually appealing portfolio is key to standing out. The advice on ensuring clarity and navigability in your table of contents is spot-on. Personal experience taught me the value of consistency in design elements. Beyond just listing sections, consider your table of contents as a preview of your work's diversity and creativity. Adding a personal touch, like a unique icon for each section, can make it memorable. Remember, the details in your portfolio's presentation speak volumes about your attention to craftsmanship and design ethos.

I'm thinking, since I do the coding myself (without the help of an outside program) I placed 4 of the art disciplines I enjoy most on the landing page with images and links to each page. Below that, I have links to other pages I created with further information about them. That's my TOC, for now. My site is a work-in-progress.

Yes. I have coded in links to on every page. For my purpose overall, I don’t think that page numbers are necessary, but that could prove incorrect. If I use a desktop publisher, that might become necessary.