Of course, you can never read too much about your intended career. If you would like to read other books on indexing, by all means do so. But, for the course, it isn't necessary.
ABOUT FEEDBACK
Many new indexers feel the need for feedback on how they are doing. If you are among these ranks, you aren't alone. This is one of the reasons people take this course. Now, it does, in some part, depend on who your instructor is. Remember in school that some teachers had that "fit" factor and how the two of you just clicked? Or that college professor who took a little extra time to "get the point"?
Sometimes, an indexing instructor doesn't fit our personality. When justified, you can discuss changing instructors.
Instructors provide valuable insights as to your style of indexing, problem areas, and offer additional indexing refinement. They have answers for your questions, especially if you are specific. Yes, you get feedback. But you may have to ask for more, if you feel you aren't getting enough.
IS IT WORTH IT?
That depends on you and your situation. It currently runs $320 (12/10/99).
Some take the course because they don't have any background that even resembles indexing. They are completely new to the entire publishing industry. They prefer to approach their new career a bit more slowly. They want the feedback and practice.
One thing to keep in mind: rarely will anyone ask you if you have taken the course. This career is unusual in that regard. Credentials are not of the paper kind. They are the "hands-on" kind.
Many indexers have never taken the course. Of those who do take the course, there is a high drop-out rate, and many say it's because they get too busy doing real indexes--they find work. Others discover indexing isn't really for them and they terminate their studies.
Some can't handle the thought of the slow turnaround time. They feel they need to get going right now because of financial or personal circumstances. Others feel it's just a paper thing to get through so they can get on with "real" indexing. They resent the time it takes. They don't understand the slow time, and why it can't be speeded up. (Maybe it can, but again, what do you want to do with your life?)
For me, the course was a refinement. I had already read books about indexing and had used indexes for nearly 30 years for research. I had operated my own freelance business in another field, so I was well-versed in business practices.
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