Nonfiction Indexing: How to Typeset Indexes in InDesign
Creating a book index? Learn to set column grids, format index indent patterns, and edit page number listings.
Eleanor Vance
Head of Digital Production
"An index helps readers quickly find topics in nonfiction books. Formatting an index in Adobe InDesign requires managing multi-column layouts and indents."
Core Key Takeaways
- Setting Up Multi-Column Index Grids
- Formatting Index Indent Styles
- Updating Page Numbers After Editing
1. Setting Up Multi-Column Index Grids
Format indexes in two or three columns to save space, setting font sizes 2 points smaller than the main body text.
- Format index grids in 2 or 3 columns to save space.
- Set index fonts 2pt smaller than the main body text.
- Use running headers to guide readers through sections.
2. Formatting Index Indent Styles
Apply hanging indents to keep entries organized, separating page numbers with consistent spaces and commas.
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. Updating Page Numbers After Editing
Verify page numbers after formatting edits to ensure all index listings point to the correct locations.
The Takeaway
Clean index layouts improve nonfiction books. Golden Ivory Publishing typesets detailed, professional book indexes.
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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