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Adding an Index to Your Manuscript

What to do if your manuscript requires an index (and if you really need one)

What Is an Index?

An index is an organized list, usually found at the back of a book or publication, that helps readers locate specific information quickly and easily. It consists of keywords, topics, or concepts mentioned in the text, accompanied by the page numbers where they can be found. A well-constructed index enhances the usability and value of a book, especially for non-fiction, academic, or reference materials.

Note: selfpublishing.com does not offer indexing as part of its services. If an index is required, it must be created and completed by the author.

1. Create a Word Document with Words to Be Indexed

  • Before the manuscript is finalized, a preliminary list of key terms, concepts, names, and subjects is created.

  • This list must be developed by the author and can be based on the manuscript draft, table of contents, or outline.

  • The document serves as a planning tool and helps the author determine what should appear in the final index.

2. Manuscript Is Formatted / Finalized

  • The manuscript goes through final formatting to ensure that page numbers and layout are locked in.

  • It is essential that the manuscript be in its final form before indexing begins, as changes afterward can make the index inaccurate.

3. Words Are Indexed According to the Manuscript

  • Once the manuscript is finalized, a professional indexer reviews the content and identifies where each selected term appears.

  • Entries are created in alphabetical order, and each includes the corresponding page numbers.

  • Cross-references (e.g., see also) can be added for related terms if desired.

4. Final Manuscript Complete

  • The completed index is reviewed and added to the final version of the manuscript.

  • The formatting team ensures the index is properly styled and placed at the end of the book.

  • Once approved, the full manuscript—including the index—is ready for print or digital publication.

Do You Really Need an Index?

For most self-published books, an index is not necessary — and often not expected by readers.

Indexes are typically reserved for books that are:

  • Academic or scholarly in nature

  • Reference-based (such as encyclopedias, guides, or manuals)

  • Highly technical, where readers may need to find precise terms quickly

  • Non-fiction books with a large amount of complex or layered content

If your book is:

  • A memoir

  • A novel

  • A self-help or motivational title

  • A general non-fiction work that flows in a narrative or chronological style

…then an index is probably not needed. Most readers will navigate your book using the table of contents or simply read it linearly.

Tip: If you're unsure whether your book needs an index, ask yourself: Will my reader need to look up specific terms quickly without reading the whole book? If not, then you can skip the index.