|
Indexing Process Getting started: All projects start with an
initial discussion where the scope of the project is established. These early decisions are covered in more detail in the initial consultation section of our
Indexing FAQ.
The book―What is it about? How big is it? What type of audience is it intended for? Indexable material―Aside from the main text, are notes, illustrations, or an introduction to be indexed? Style guides to be followed―This includes decisions such as:
Format: indented or run-in style Alphabetization: word-by-word or letter-by-letter Capitalization preferences: initial caps or not Cross-reference preferences: capitalization, placement, and punctuation Page ranges: Chicago Manual of Style, Hart, full, or otherwise shortened references Size specifications: number of lines, characters per line, number of pages Structure of entries: levels of subheadings are allowed
Delivery and logistics: Once the scope of the project has been established, the logistics of getting the manuscript to Modern Parlance and the
final index back to the client are established.
-
Will the pages sent be first- or second-pass page proofs?
-
Will they be sent as a printed copy (FedEx, UPS, courier, or other) or electronically (PDF, email attachment, or access via
FTP)?
-
Will they arrive in a single delivery or in several over a given time?
-
Schedule for the project―from delivery of manuscript to Modern Parlance, to the delivery of final index to
client.
-
File format options:
ASCII file, .doc (MSWord), or .rtf.
-
Delivery options: email, FTP, CD-ROM, or floppy disk. Printed pages can be provided on request.
Working process: Having established the scope of the project and the logistics of delivery, the indexing work can begin. The process usually follows a predictable
pattern.
-
Skimming of text for density and broad concepts
-
Careful reading of text, marking and evaluating elements for inclusion in index
-
Creation of index headings and subheadings
-
Editing of index consistency and conformity to specifications
-
Spot checking and proofreading
-
Submission of final index to client
Other indexing related services available:
-
Editorial review: Did a previous indexing effort not meet the needs of your book? The index may not be a complete loss but if you're not
familiar with indexing this type of situation can seem like a bigger problem than it actually is. In fairly short order and at very little cost, we should be able to make a professional recommendation on what can be salvaged
and what your next step should be.
-
Style guides: If you don't have a style sheet, or wish to revisit the style sheet you are currently using, we can develop one for you or work with
your in-house team to develop one.
-
Consultations: Creating your first index? We can provide an overview before you start, a sounding board as you go, or a review before you submit
the index to your publisher.
|
