Types of Indexes in Scientific Research
There are several varieties of indexes utilized in scientific research:
Table of Contents
The table of contents is one of the most prevalent indexes, mandatory across all fields of scientific research. This section presents the main and sub-headings included in the research, along with discussions of these topics throughout its pages. The table of contents serves as a comprehensive list detailing each subject matter within the study, paired with the page number where the discussion begins. Topics are arranged in the same sequence as they appear in the main research document or thesis.
Author Index and Biographies
This index is essential for research papers and theses that delve into topics related to jurisprudence and Islamic law. It consists of lists placed at the end of the research, featuring the names of authors and their relevant biographies referenced within the document. These entries are organized alphabetically, accompanied by the corresponding page numbers where each author and biography can be found.
Index of Hadiths and Verses from the Quran
Some researchers differentiate between the index of Hadiths and the index of Quranic verses, both of which should be included at the end of a master’s thesis. Both indexes present the prophetic sayings and Quranic verses as cited within the research, listed in the order they appear along with the relevant page numbers.
Abbreviation Index
The abbreviation index is essential for research papers within scientific disciplines such as Computer Science or Physics, where a significant amount of abbreviations and acronyms are employed. Thus, it is important to provide this index at the beginning of the document to clarify the meanings of the abbreviations, offering the full corresponding terms. This enables readers to understand the intended messages of the researcher without needing to sift through the entire document or seek external references.
Table of Figures
This index is required in research papers that incorporate tables within their content. It should follow the table of contents and serves to explain the titles of the tables as mentioned in the scientific study, maintaining the same order alongside the page numbers where they are referenced.
Figure Index
The figure index should be included in research papers that feature images within their content as well. Positioned after the table of contents and the tables section, this index outlines the titles of the images as mentioned in the study, following the same order and including the relevant page numbers.
Formats of Indexes in Libraries
An index serves as a crucial link connecting readers with library resources. It is one of the most important tools for organizing book contents. The index is more comprehensive, detailed, and systematic compared to other methods. If the library’s role is to provide materials sought by individuals, then the index effectively functions as the connector facilitating between reader needs and library resources. Here are some prominent forms of indexes:
Printed Index
Also known as the book index, this type appears in the form of a book that contains data about materials available in the library. It is termed “printed index” because it is frequently produced in print form. This type is one of the oldest index formats recognized by libraries. It is characterized by its ease of use, portability, and size. Multiple libraries may collaborate to produce and distribute it. However, its use has declined recently due to several reasons, including its susceptibility to deterioration and the necessity for regular updates.
Card Index
This type of index originated in Italy and began to be used in the 19th century. The card index consists of thick paper slips sized 4×7 inches. Notes or small paper pieces are bundled in a sturdy cover, allowing users to open and close it to add new slips. Notable features include its compact size and the ease of production using standard copying methods, enabling simultaneous access by multiple users. However, in large libraries, it can become cumbersome, and individual slips are prone to tearing due to frequent use.
Computerized Index
The computerized index is a modern advancement that emerged following the integration of computers in library and information center operations. This type allows for the digitization of traditional indexes within libraries and information centers. It is known for its user-friendliness, significant flexibility, and the rapid generation of results.