Definition
In instructional writing, headings are the short titles placed above sections of training material that label what each section contains and show how the material is organized. They mark the structure of a lesson, chapter, or written guide so the reader can see the topics, subtopics, and their relationships at a glance.
Plain English
The bold titles at the top of each section of a lesson or handbook that tell you what that part is about and how it fits with the rest.
Context Anchor
Seen in lesson plans, handouts, presentations, checklists, manuals, and other training materials.
Derivation
From Old English 'heafod' meaning 'head' or 'top.' A heading sits at the head of a section, naming what follows. Knowing this anchors the meaning: a heading leads the section, it does not describe the content in detail.
Why Pilots Care
Correct headings keep the aircraft on the intended route, prevent airspace incursions, and maintain safe separation from traffic and terrain.
Analogy
Like the direction your car is aimed even when a crosswind pushes the whole vehicle sideways across the lane.
Intuition Check
In this context, headings does not mean the direction an aircraft is pointed. It means the titles that divide training material into clear sections.
Example Sentence 1
When preparing his ground school notes, the instructor grouped the material under clear headings so students could find each topic during review.
Example Sentence 2
During the cross-country flight the pilot adjusted headings several times to compensate for the wind and stay on the planned route.