Formatting a Glossary or Index: Print Book Typesetting Rules
Formatting a glossary or index? Learn trim size rules, grid alignments, page columns, and typography configurations.
Eleanor Vance
Head of Digital Production
"A glossary or index helps readers navigate nonfiction books. Typesetting these sections requires specific layouts to keep them readable and pass printing checks."
Core Key Takeaways
- Sizing and Layout Columns for Indexes
- Aligning Glossaries and Term Definitions
- Managing Page Numbers and Cross-References
1. Sizing and Layout Columns for Indexes
Indexes list terms and page numbers. Format indexes in 2 or 3 columns to save space, setting font sizes 1 to 2 points smaller than body text.
- Format index spreads in clean double-column layouts.
- Set font sizes 1-2pt smaller than the main body text.
- Apply hanging indents to keep term listings organized.
2. Aligning Glossaries and Term Definitions
List terms in bold face, followed by clean indentations for definitions, maintaining consistent margin alignments across spreads.
Transform Your Manuscript into a Retail-Ready Print & eBook Layout
Avoid margin rejections and broken reflows. Our senior book designers craft custom InDesign spreads, decorative chapter headings, and validated responsive EPUBs.
3. Managing Page Numbers and Cross-References
Ensure all index coordinates match print page numbers, updating references when layout formatting changes page counts.
The Takeaway
Glossaries and indexes require technical layout formatting. Trust the interior layout team at Golden Ivory Publishing to design beautiful spreads.
Transform Your Manuscript into a Retail-Ready Print & eBook Layout
Avoid margin rejections and broken reflows. Our senior book designers craft custom InDesign spreads, decorative chapter headings, and validated responsive EPUBs.
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