Many readers count on finding an index in the books they read. For some readers, the presence or lack of a proper index in a book may even be a factor in their decision to purchase that book. I know I have frequently put books back on the shelf if they don’t have an index. As a student, I found that the presence of an index was integral to my choice to use or not use a particular book as part of my research, frequently being the first pages I would turn to when looking over the books for relevant material.

Let me create your index for you. I can save you valuable time and make sure that the standard elements and formatting requested by your publisher are met. What’s more, I enjoy the task!

My indexing process:

• Usually I get sent the final page proofs once there’s no real page changing still to happen in the editing process.
• I do not use GenAI anywhere in my indexing process.
• I will index those page proofs in the format asked for – typically run-in or indented formats, and also letter by letter or word by word alphabetization. Publishers often have a particular style they wish the index to follow, sometimes termed the “house style”. If you don’t have a house style to guide you, I can help you decide how best to format your index as well.
• Then I send the index back as an .rtf file or in a similar format specified by the publisher.
• Finally, I make any corrections requested by the author or publisher.

I specialize in books on history, however, I have indexed many titles in the following subject areas: biographies/memoirs, popular culture, general finance/real estate, political science, self-help and education. For a more complete list of subjects/titles, take a look at the “Samples of my Work” or the “Samples of my Work by Subject” page.

Are you looking for an index right now? I’m open to working on rush jobs if needed.

Contact me at elenagwynne@quillandinkindexing.com for more information. I’m looking forward to working with you.