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Generate and format an index
Last updated on
Jun 2, 2026
Learn how to compile index entries, apply formatting styles, and create a professional index story in Adobe InDesign.
Generate an index to organize your markers into an alphabetized, formatted list with correct page numbers and cross-references. The generated index updates automatically but does not retain manual edits made to the index story.
Before you begin
Ensure index markers are added throughout your document (and that all book files are open, if applicable).
Generate the index story
Select the panel menu icon, then select Generate Index.
Specify settings for the options:
- Title: Type the text that will appear first in your index (for example, Index or Guide).
- Title Style: Select a paragraph style from the menu to format the index title.
- Replace Existing Index: Select to update a previously generated index or deselect to create a new index in a separate location.
- Include Book Documents: Select to create a single index for all documents in the current book or deselect to generate an index for the current document only.
- Include Entries on Hidden Layers: Select to include index markers for hidden layers in the generated index.
Select More Options to access additional index formatting controls.
Select OK.
If Replace Existing Index is deselected, a loaded text cursor icon appears. Place the index story as you would any other text or drag to create a new frame.
Note
Edits made directly to the generated index are overwritten when you regenerate it. To retain changes, modify index entries in the Index panel.
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