A good index respects your reader’s time. It helps them find what they need, return to key sections, and use your book as a working tool—not just a one-time read.
When you need an index
Indexing is especially important in nonfiction books that are practical, professional, or academic. Readers may not read in a linear way. They’re often searching for specific topics, examples, or references. A well-made index allows them to do that quickly and with confidence.
Indexing is not just about listing terms
It involves careful judgement—what to include, how to phrase entries, and how to organise them in a way that reflects the structure and logic of the book.