Index (publishing)

An index is an alphabetical or systematic list of topics, names, or other information linked to locations in a book or document. It enables targeted retrieval without requiring readers to follow the work’s sequence.

Index entry: A heading or subheading in an index that identifies a subject, name, or other searchable item. Entries are the basic units that name what an index helps locate.
Indexing: The process of identifying and organizing information so it can be retrieved efficiently. A book index is produced by selecting, naming, and locating relevant content.
Subject index: An index that organizes references to topics discussed in a work. It directs users to discussions of ideas rather than merely listing names.
Table of contents: An ordered list of a work’s sections, usually with page numbers or links. It follows the work’s sequence, while an index groups material by searchable subject.
Locator (publishing): A reference in an index that points to a location in the indexed work, commonly a page number. Locators connect each entry to the material it identifies.
Page proof: A near-final version of a publication used to check layout and text before printing. Index locators are checked against page proofs because pagination can change during production.
Name index: An index that lists personal or organizational names and the locations where they appear. It supports targeted lookup of people and institutions in a publication.
Bibliography: A list of sources cited or consulted in a work, commonly arranged by author or title. A bibliography identifies sources; an index locates topics within the work itself.
Cross-reference: A reference directing someone from one part of a work or information system to another. “See” references redirect readers from an entry to a preferred heading.
Indexing software: Software that helps create, organize, or manage index entries and their locators. Digital tools can sort entries and update references as a book is revised.

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