Mostly, I need authors to pay close attention to the spelling and formatting of proper nouns, which spell check can’t catch. Below are some time-saving tips for reviewing the index, and some notes on indexing logic, which can be complex and and unfamiliar to many. Please read through these brief guidelines before reviewing the index.

Time-savings tips for reviewing the index:

• To get a sense of how the index is organized and structured, read through it before making corrections. Many concepts are double posted and appear in multiple places.
• Edits and comments can be made using the tracking function in Microsoft Word.
• If you have trouble opening the RTF file: 1) save the file to your computer 2) open Microsoft Word, and 3) in Word, from the File menu, select Open and retrieve the document from where you saved it on your computer.

Notes related to indexing logic:

• Headings are intended to take readers to locations in the text, not to explain the text.
• Numerous (eight or more) page numbers without subheadings is unacceptable and not helpful for readers.
• Passing mentions are not indexed.
• Repeating the same page number under a main heading/entry should be avoided or limited.
• An index is not an outline or concordance. Try and avoid thinking of it this way. Don’t expect every appearance of a word or phrase to appear in the index.
• Double posting certain entries is common.
• Cross references (See and See also) are used sparingly.
• Parenthetical references that aren’t referenced in the narrative of the text are not indexed.