This nuts and bolts guide to indexing explains in plain language and by example exactly how to index any type of print or online documentation quickly, easily, and effectively. The sequential indexing method presented in this guide has been successfully tested in high-pressure publishing environments in a variety of high tech industries over the past decade. Its foundation in real-world success makes its methodology bulletproof.

Indexing: A Practical Guide for Technical Writers offers the reader the information required for both immediate and continued success. It presents a highly structured indexing method that can be customized to meet the specific needs of the user; this extends its utility to a broad range of companies and products.

From the Introduction: “...To achieve usability, reusability, and reliability, this guide explains indexing on three levels — 1) About indexing: This chapter introduces the sequential indexing method. A structural overview of products, product documentation, and document indexes explains why the sequential indexing method is so successful; 2) Start indexing: This chapter contains sequential step-by-step procedures. These procedures explain exactly how to index any type of document, from start to finish. Each procedure step contains cross-references to detailed indexing guidelines [detailed in the following chapter]; 3) Indexing guidelines: This chapter contains detailed indexing guidelines. These guidelines explain everything from indexing acronyms to creating ‘see also’ references to building master indexes...Each guideline contains positive and negative examples as well as cross-references to related guidelines and procedures...”

Target Audience: Technical writers and editors throughout the world; technical publications managers; and teachers and students of technical communication.

Table of Contents:

About This Guide

About Indexing

Start Indexing

Indexing Guidelines

Index