I am doing a table of contents and need tabs - can't find them anywhere. and I know, there is a table of contents feature, but, one thing at a time please - I just want to know where to find the tab button - did they take it away?!

Still there.
If you're in the TOC dialogue, select Modify for the TOC level you want to deal with. In the next dialogue, click on the "Format:" button lower left and select Tabs.

Word for dummies....

Sorry about that. TOC is for table of contents.

I actually figured out the acronym after I sent. but thank you and thanks for not thinking of me as an idiot.

went and tried to do what you said, and could not find any of the things you mentioned. this is not good - I think this new program is not as user-friendly; why isn't there a tabs button like before - for when you are not doing a TOC? I know how to use the tab feature on the ruler, but it does not have a dotted leader tab, which is what I want to do my TOC manually. to do it with the program is taking me out of my comfort zone, big time - and nothing is working for me there.

if this is way too much for you because of my elementary level, I will understand you giving up on me!

I have been where you are and am happy to share what I have learned. We all have more to learn.

Okay, TOC's aside: In your document, on the Home tab of the ribbon, three "blocks" over is the Paragraph section, with all the buttons for alignment, lists, indents, etc. To the right of the word Paragraph at the bottom of this, click on the small, diagonally downward-pointing arrow. At the bottom left of the Paragraph dialogue box which comes up, you'll set the Tabs button, which will bring up the familiar Tabs dialogue box.

Let me know if you have further problems.

got it - and got the dialogue box I am familiar with and I am happy now!!!!!!! thank you so much for hanging in there with me - now I am curious how the TOC works and feel encourage that I can conquer that too one day. thanks again!