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Step 1
To compile the index, you’ll first need to replace spaces between any first names and middle initials with a non-breaking space, as well as for any other entries with a space in them. Select "show hidden characters" under the Type menu so you can see the non-breaking space. Then, highlight the space to replace, and press ctrl+Alt+x.
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Step 2
Next, highlight the entire name or term to be indexed and hit ctrl+shift+F8. Do this for all chapters of your book.
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Step 3
Open a new file (from the book's template, if you're using one) and save it as Index. In the Index document, choose File > New > Book, then add all chapters and the Index to the book (drag files up or down until they are in the right order).
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Step 4
Look for duplicate entries, such as faculty with two lists of page numbers, one with their name with a middle initial and one without. Combine the page numbers under one of these entries, usually the one with the middle initial.
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Step 5
Open the index under Window and select “Generate Index” from the drop-down menu. Select “Include Book Documents,” and for entry separators, choose “em space” Following Topic and “,[n space]” between page numbers. Select “OK” and the index will run.
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Step 6
Carefully proof the index you've generated. Look for duplicate entries which may differ by a typo (and don't forget to correct the term within the document as well). Conserve space by grouping long strings of page numbers. 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9 can become 4-9.
Comments
rwwc said
on 5/21/2008 This is great thank you, but what if you are creating a 66 catalog selling books with 20 books on each page and you want to include the author and book title in the index and nothing else? Can InDesign do that?