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Where Do I Start?

© Dawney Spencer

"The journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step."

If you are reading this column because you are interested in indexing as a freelance, homebased business, you have made the first step.

So what's the next step?

For the next few articles, we'll take a look at initial steps you can take to start a freelance, homebased indexing business. For this series, we'll make a few baseline assumptions.

First assumption: You are currently have an income. This is an important assumption. I prefer to build a solid foundation over time. If you don't have an income, your approach needs to be much more radical than what I will outline in this series.

Second assumption: You have "more time than money." If you have lots of money, that's GREAT! But, most people are not in that position. Therefore, this series will approach indexing from an economical, relaxed viewpoint.

Third assumption: You are just getting into indexing. You are not committed to spending lots of money until you find out more.

Sounds good, so far! Now where?

There are several books on indexing that can be purchased. But which one is best?

My recommendation is: The Art of Indexing by Larry Bonura.

If you are just getting started in indexing, this book is the best. The "Overview" states:

"The task of the indexer is to chart the topics of the document and to present a concise and accurate map for readers. This book will help you become a better indexer."

Most impressive is the easy to read formatting and design of the text. Bullets and lists are used extensively. Short, concise paragraphs get to the point.

Also important are the topics covered. It's not just indexing. Also included are: cost and time analysis; an editing checklist; usability testing; various types of indexes; traits of good indexers; criteria for a good index; meeting reader's needs; formatting the index; twelve tips for better indexing; do's and don'ts; and much, much more.

One of the best features is in Chapter 9. It is a flowchart that demonstrates how to make term selections. This seems to be an area of difficulty for beginning indexers. This flowchart directly addresses this weakness!

The Art of Indexing even contains the "Wheatley Medal" criteria! "Compare your index with these 15 criteria to see how you measure up to a medal winner."

But wait!

What about Indexing Books by Nancy Mulvany?

Nancy's book is very good. But if you are just starting out or looking into indexing as a viable career, the book is way too technical. Indexing Books can be overwhelming, confusing, and intimidating to someone just wanting to know more about indexing. It is for people who have committed to indexing. Also, if you later decide to take the USDA course, the book is included as part of the class materials. Why buy it twice?

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