Electronic Scribe Indexing   Superlative indexes on time, every time
		WHAT WILL THE INDEXER ASK ME? A great index is a work of art composed of many different aspects. In order to create such an index, the professional indexer will ask you questions about the style of the index desired, the type and size of the work being indexed, the intended audience, and questions regarding the due dates for both the page proofs and the finished index. Both parties need to understand the details regarding index specifics, for example format, alphabetization and the structure of page ranges. Cross-references need to be considered and a format decided upon, as well as what material is not to be indexed. Lastly, details regarding length and depth limitations need to be understood by both parties. If your company has a preferred style guide the indexer needs to know and should be provided with either a sample or a style guide. WHAT WILL IT COST? Fees vary for each project depending upon various factors, for example subject matter, intended audience, and production schedule. Books vary greatly in depth and complexity and the fee must reflect this. For example, a computer programming manual written for scientists and engineers will cost more than a book of the same length written on local history or pet care. The level of expertise of the indexer will also be a factor; established professionals with good reputations cost more than a new indexer just starting out. Indexers also charge in different ways, for example by the entry, by the line or a fixed rate rather than charging by page of text. As a general rule of thumb, you can expect to pay anywhere from $2-$8 per page. HOW MUCH TIME WILL IT TAKE? The time necessary to create a good index must be balanced with the publishing schedule of the client and this factor will have a great effect on the quality of the finished work. Books vary greatly in depth and complexity and the time needed to construct the index will reflect this. WHY DO I NEED AN INDEXER? A professional indexer can greatly augment the value of a book by providing the reader with an excellent roadmap to the knowledge within the book. A professional indexer is trained in matters of style preferences and has a well-honed eye for important ideas and information. A professional indexer is trained to consider the needs of the reader in the matter of keyword selection. A professional indexer can help make the difference between a well-loved and often-used reference book and a forgotten work sitting in a dusty pile at a rummage sale. WHAT TYPES OF BOOKS DO I INDEX? I have a Bachelor of Science degree in Biology with coursework in botany, environmental science, genetics, medicine, microbiology, mycology and plant pathology. I also have formal instruction in the martial arts of Aikido and T’ai Chi Chuan. I have worked in the medical industry and with computers. I have a personal interest in religious topics and have read the works of many religions including Christianity, Buddhism and Islam.