Indexing work is normally very flexible, as the indexer can choose whether or not to accept work at any time. Book indexes normally take from one to three weeks, and database indexing can often be scheduled in advance. One of the satisfactions of book indexing is that it is easy to complete one task, and move on to the next one. On the other hand, the work can also be very stressful, because the indexer is given very little time to complete it. Scheduling more than one job at a time is also difficult.
Most indexers spend many nights working after midnight when work is due.
Indexing requires a broad general knowledge, logical mind, and good organisational skills, but because it doesn't require any specific qualifications, it seems to be work that is readily passed on to other members of the family. There are a number of indexing families where wife and husband both index. Members meet to discuss theoretical and practical issues to do with indexing. Members are also very supportive, and often pass on work when they are busy. Anglo-American cataloguing rules .