Index (publishing)

An index is a list of words or phrases, called headings, with locators directing readers to useful material in a document or collection. A back-of-the-book index commonly includes selected people, places, events and concepts, with page, paragraph or section numbers as pointers. Unlike a concordance, it focuses on subjects rather than exact wording, and unlike a table of contents, it is organized by subject rather than document order.

Purpose

Helps readers locate useful material in a document or collection of documents.

Back-of-book headings

May include people, places, events and concepts selected for relevance to readers.

Typical locators

Usually page, paragraph or section numbers.