Embedded Indexing—What, Why, and How
Three-Part Course with Anne Fifer
October 14, 21, and 28, 2026
10 am Pacific; 11 am Mtn; 12 pm Central; 1 pm Eastern
Course Overview
Embedded indexing involves inserting index entries directly into the text of a publication rather than creating a separate document. Because the process and software differ from traditional indexing, it can be challenging for indexers to understand and navigate. However, it provides a great opportunity to expand your indexing services.
During “Embedded Indexing,” Anne Fifer will break down what embedded indexing is and what the advantages are, for the indexer and the publisher, of using embedded indexing. She will explain the programs used for embedded indexing and which tools work best for which tasks.
Participants should have experience with indexing, as this is a not a course on how to index. It is intended to help indexers understand the complexities of embedded indexing, determine when embedded indexing is the best choice, and choose the right tools for the work.
Session 1: What is embedded indexing?
Session 1 will define embedded indexes and demonstrate the process of producing an embedded index in both MSWord and InDesign.
- Understand the embedded indexing process vs traditional “hard copy” indexing
- Gain familiarity with tags and their role in the source document
- See an overview of your client software
- MSWord demonstration
- Adobe InDesign introductory demonstration
- Comprehend the capabilities and limitations of embedded indexing
- Overview of XML book indexing
- XML book indexing process
- Tool for XML index output
Session 2: Tools for embedded indexing
Session 2 will describe tools available to assist in embedding indexes. This will include Index Manager, TExtract, as well as publisher-specific platforms.
Learn the capabilities of software for index production/writing (indexer-friendly software)
- Index Manager
- TExtract
- Transfer of index into client source documents
- KPS (Kerntiff Publishing System) Index utilities
- Other tools/resources
Session 3: Advantages/disadvantages of using embedded indexing
Session 3 will demonstrate the advantages in facilitating the workflow with simultaneous editing and indexing with document replacement and with future revisions of the index.
- Appreciate the potential of workflow adaptations
- Work on the files simultaneously with the publisher
- Begin the indexing process before the book is complete
- Generate the final index, knowing locators will update
automatically
- Communicate with your client about file access
- Help clients understand the sanctity of the embedded entries
- See how to import the previous index and use software to create a revised index
- Save the indexer time and the publisher money
- Get multiple uses from the source document, such as an excerpted chapter with index
- Produce an interactive index (clickable locators)
- Help your client understand which choice works best for their project
- Know which software to use if you do need a linked index
- Verify proper generation in client software
- Use the same proofing/editing and quality checks as with traditional
- Ensure that the client is aware of hidden text in the document
Each session is approximately one hour.
About our Presenter
Anne Fifer began freelance indexing at Graffito in 2008. She indexes trade books, encyclopedias, and medical books of various levels. She does embedded indexing using Index Manager and TExtract, which is compatible with the client’s Word and/or InDesign documents. Education includes a PhD in psychology and DO with specialty in neurology.
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Once you have completed your purchase, please return to this page to access the presentations. Registration entitles you to “on demand” access to the course and unlimited repeat viewings.
The early rate for this 3-part course is just $249 for members. After October 28, 2026, the rate is $299. You will have long-term access to the replays. Please purchase using your email address on file: Guest
The early rate for this 3-part course is $299 for non-members. After October 28, 2026, the rate is $349. You will have long-term access to the replays. If you have previously purchased from ASI, please use your email address on file. Guest