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MEDLINE Indexing Online Training Course

The Indexing Process

A good indexer:

  • Does not let bias or knowledge of a subject alter how the article is indexed

    index only what the article says

  • Does not read the article word for word

    This takes time and does not always provide better indexing

  • Recognizes the authority of an article, and does not correct any of the assertions made in the article

    Do not attempt to correct bad science or point out mistakes

  • Describes the concepts in an article using MeSH terms

    Familiarize yourself with the MeSH, be aware of the terms available before you request a new term or use a general term

  • Always indexes using the most specific term

    Examine the MeSH tree structure to ensure that you are using the most specific term possible

Last Reviewed: April 15, 2015