Indexterms

Indexterms, also known as keywords or subject headings, are terms or phrases used to describe the content of a document, making it easier to locate and retrieve information. They are typically assigned by indexers or subject matter experts and are used in various contexts, including library catalogs, databases, and search engines. Indexterms help users navigate large collections of information by providing a structured way to access relevant documents. They can be single words, phrases, or compound terms and are often organized in a hierarchical or alphabetical manner to facilitate browsing and searching. In library science, indexterms are a fundamental component of cataloging and indexing systems, ensuring that resources are accurately described and easily discoverable. In the context of databases and search engines, indexterms contribute to the efficiency and relevance of search results by improving the precision and recall of information retrieval.