In training

I've been an indexer for almost 20 years, since 1988. I've done database indexing, magazine indexing, and currently have a side business where I do book indexing.

The scary thing? I've never had any formal training.

I'm sure one or more of my library school classes touched on the subject, and book cataloging is similar is some ways. But I've never had anyone take me by the hand and say, "Here's what you do."

So I signed up for a distance learning course that starts whenever I get my registration confirmation. I have 6 months to complete it, so I don't feel too crazy signing up for it right before the holidays.

I'm anxious about it. What if I find out I suck as an indexer? I'm long past the point where I believe that anyone is going to find hidden genius in me. I'm just hoping to get a better understanding of how to formally apply the principles I've been working with intuitively.

I hope it's going to be fun. I dread the thought of it being a chore ...