An index is a systematic guide to significant items or concepts mentioned or discussed in a work or group of works.
The items and concepts are represented by a series of entries arranged in a known or searchable order. The order is usually alphabetical, but it may vary, depending on the contents of the work being indexed. A chronological arrangement would be suitable for an index of historical events and persons, for example, and a numerical one might be required for lists of chemical elements, patents or highways.
Each entry contains a locator, which is an indication of the place(s) in the work where reference to the item or concept may be found.
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