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

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