The 'SimpleTOC – Table of Contents Block' plugin’s primary function is enriching posts, articles, and long text pieces with a table of contents. Just as you would find in any physical book, a well-curated table of contents provides readers with a clear overview of the material they're about to explore. It aids them in progressing through the content smoothly and with ease, further enhancing the user's interaction with the site.

So, how does the 'SimpleTOC – Table of Contents Block' function, and what distinctive advantages does it bring? First, the plugin automatically generates a table of contents for your web pages and posts, making the process hassle-free for content creators. It recognizes headers used in the content and compiles them into a neatly presented table of contents, essentially doing all the hard work for you. The result is a professional and reader-friendly rundown of key points, allowing readers to click on areas of interest and be taken directly to that section of the content.

The functionality of 'SimpleTOC – Table of Contents Block' extends beyond automatic generation. It offers users the flexibility to edit the table of contents-- its appearance, titles, and essentially what it includes. A user can also add a shortcode to any post or widget area, facilitating quick access to a table of contents irrespective of the location. Additionally, the plugin adjusts to match the site's theme, so it blends seamlessly with your existing layout.

The 'SimpleTOC – Table of Contents Block' is also an asset from an SEO standpoint. Having an organized structure contributes to a website's credibility and can aid in improving search engine rankings. Research shows that well-structured content is more likely to be understood and appreciated by search engine algorithms, thus potentially meaning better visibility for your content on search platforms.