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Multi-Column Index

Abstract

How to set up multi-column index pages for PDF outputs.

By default, your index is shown as a single-column index in PDF outputs. This can be suitable for shorter indices.

If you prefer a multi-column layout to show more index entries per page and to adjust the gap between the columns, this is set in the Layout Editor.

A PDF output showing an index with many index entries. They are ordered into 3 equal sized columns.

A PDF output showing a three-column index

To define the index columns for PDF output:

  1. Select Layout in the top menu.

    Paligo editor. The Layout option in the header menu is highlighted.

    Paligo displays a list of Layouts. The list is empty if there are no custom Layouts in your Paligo instance.

  2. Select the Layout you want to update or Create a Layout.

    Tip

    You can copy the URL of the Layout Editor and paste it into a new tab in your browser. This can be useful if you frequently switch between your Paligo content and the Layout settings.

  3. Select General in the sidebar. New_Layout.jpg

    Select_General_PDF_small.jpg

  4. Select Glossary, Index and Bibliography.

  5. Select the Number of columns for the Index from the menu.

    You can choose from 1 to 4.

    Paligo will aim to balance the columns automatically, so that they are approximately equal length.

    Number_of_columns_Index_small.jpg

  6. Enter a width between each column in the Columns gap for the index. You must specify a measurement unit after the width (pt, px, em).

    This setting only applies if there is more than one column.

    Column_Gap_Index_small.jpg

  7. Select Save.

When you publish to PDF with this layout, your index will use the column number and spacing settings that you applied.