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Subject:Re: Indexing advice From:Paul Trummel <trummel -at- U -dot- WASHINGTON -dot- EDU> Date:Fri, 3 Sep 1993 14:19:10 -0700
I suggest:
1. Read "The Chicago Manual of Style" Chapter 18 Indexes.
2. Adapt the word processor index program attributes to meet the Chicago
parameters and your own need. Indexing forms an integral part of, and
a concurrent function to, writing. Therefore, set up the word processing
parameters while outlining and capture the information as you write or revise.
3. Professional indexers serve a useful function in that they can
sometimes introduce objectivity. However, the author remains in charge and
more familiar with the subject matter. Many writers abdicate
responsibility for indexing by delegating to professional indexers
who only know electronic index algorithms and not the subject
matter. These authors live to regret it and usually spend the night before the
press run trying to cut and paste.
On Fri, 3 Sep 1993, Paula Reynolds wrote:
> Hey folks.
> Yup, it's the clueless one asking for advice from the net.
> I'm looking for good references and advice on writing indexes (indexi?).
> I've never done one, never thought about doing one, and am about to start
> one. I'm using Word for Windows v.2.0c.
> I guess a specific question I have is what is the logic behind indexing?
> I mean, if the WinWord manual is to be believed, I should decide how many
> levels I'll have, and then go through the chapters and pick out what
> seems relevant. Somehow, I think this is a tad simplistic, but as I said
> earlier, I'm pretty much clueless.
> Thanks for the advice, and enjoy the holiday weekend.
> Paula Reynolds
> Technical Writer
> Hi-Speed Checkweigher Co., Inc.
> 5 Barr Road
> Ithaca, NY 14850
