An index lists important words and the pages they appear on, usually at the end of a long document. Word builds it from entries you mark in the text, then keeps it up to date with one click. The feature is in Word for Windows and Mac.
Quick Answer
Select a word, choose References, Mark Entry (or press Alt, Shift and X), and click Mark or Mark All. When you are done, click where the index should go and choose References, Insert Index.
How to Create an Index in Word
- Select the word or phrase you want in the index.
- Go to References, Mark Entry, or press Alt, Shift and X.
- Adjust the Main entry text or add a Subentry, then click Mark, or Mark All to mark every occurrence.
- Repeat for other terms. Word shows hidden XE field codes; press Ctrl and Shift and 8 to hide them again.
- Click at the end of the document and choose References, Insert Index. Pick columns and a format, then OK.
- After edits, click in the index and choose Update Index (or press F9).
Index Options
| Option | Use |
|---|---|
| Mark All | Index every instance of the selected text |
| Subentry | Group related terms under a main entry |
| Cross-reference | See also another entry |
| Page range | Cover a bookmarked section |
| Columns | Usually two for long lists |
Troubleshooting
- Page numbers wrong: hide formatting marks before updating. Visible field codes shift the pages.
- Index missing new entries: click inside it and press F9.
- Entries appear twice: check for different capitalization. Word treats them as separate. Before finalizing, remove all tracked changes so hidden edits do not shift page numbers.
- For fillable forms instead, see how to add fillable fields in Word.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I create an index in Word for the web?
No. Word for the web can display an index but not create or update one.
How is an index different from a table of contents?
A table of contents lists headings in order; an index lists terms alphabetically with page numbers.
Can I delete an index entry?
Show formatting marks, then delete that XE field and update the index.
Can I use a concordance file?
Yes. Insert Index, AutoMark, and pick a two-column list of terms.
Summary
- Select a term.
- References, Mark Entry.
- Mark or Mark All.
- Insert Index at the end.
- Update Index after changes.
Kermit Matthews is a freelance writer based in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania with more than a decade of experience writing technology guides. He has a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Computer Science and has spent much of his professional career in IT management.
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