Part 1. Indexing Whatchamacallits and Thingamajigs
How to Word Vague, Implied, and Elusive References
with Joan Shapiro on March 4, 2026
In this session Joan will discuss indexing textual discussions that are in some way incomplete. How do you handle references to concepts that aren’t explicitly stated? What do you index for titles of works or events that aren’t spelled out? What if a book title is discussed but its author isn’t mentioned; do you include the author’s name? We will talk about what to put in the index when important information literally cannot be found in the text.
Part 2. Beginnings and Endings
How to Make the Most of Introductions and Conclusions
with Gina Guilinger on March 11, 2026
Gina Guilinger explores the often-overlooked power of introductions and conclusions, sharing practical strategies for using these sections to strengthen and clarify the overall index. Learn best practices for indexing these sections of the book.
Part 3. Beyond the Book: Managing Supplemental Materials
with Devon Thomas March 18, 2026
You’ve worked your way through the main text, but what about all that other stuff? Appendices, glossaries, exercises, review questions, etc, are common, but advice and practice varies on indexing them. This presentation will explore the conundrums of dealing with ancillary materials.
Find more details and biographies of the three presenters at ASI.
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