Like the appendix in a human body, the appendix of a book is information that is not strictly necessary for the main body of the text. The appendix is an addition or an extension. It may contain a section of references for the reader, some extra marginally connected topics, a summary of the unprocessed data or some details relating to the working methodology.
Steps
Step 1. Review the appendices of other works
Compare the appendices of similar or related topics to your writing, or analyze the appendices of totally different topics. Look at the type of information they contain and how they relate (a lot or in part) to the main job. Are there any contents that are repeated regularly?
Step 2. Review your work
If the text is required of you for specific reasons, remind yourself. Contact the person who assigned you the task to receive the necessary information.
Step 3. Think about the purpose of writing the appendix
What do you mean you haven't already said?
Step 4. Consider your audience
Who will read the appendix? Will it improve the experience and understanding of the core job? Will it serve as a useful reference guide when using or reading your writing?
Step 5. Ask for another opinion
Describe the text and appendix you have in mind to someone, and ask for an honest opinion.
Step 6. Gather the information you want to include in the appendix
Step 7. Consider the relevance of the information
If textual relevance is very high, consider incorporating information into a section or chapter. If it is scarce, consider omitting the information completely. In the event that the report is of a good standard, that the information is valid reference material, or that it favors the deepening of the interested reader by inviting him to new reading, include the information in one or more appendices.
Step 8. Organize the appendix information as you would any other type of information
Use tables, charts and graphs for numerical data. Use sections, titles, and paragraphs for textual information.
Step 9. If the information is about multiple and disparate topics, consider breaking it up into multiple appendices
You will divide the different themes simplifying their consultation.
Step 10. Write the appendix
Consider what information you need to enter. If the purpose of the appendix is to provide data, write a header and insert the tables. Since this is a paragraph of text, write it as you would any other paragraph.
- The header should be bold and placed in the center of the page, at the top. The word APPENDIX should be followed by its number.
- Each new appendix should be placed on a new page and have a new header.
Step 11. Check and correct your appendix before posting and publishing
Advice
- Even if you intend to include an appendix, your work will have to be done with certainty. Do not assume that the reader will read the appendix, and do not force them to a detailed reading. If you find that the appendix provides important information on the subject of text, insert it in a chapter, epilogue, afterword, summary or concluding section.
- An appendix is an extra, but it doesn't have to contain an added thought or afterthought.
- While focusing your attention primarily on the main body of the work, don't leave out the appendix as the last task and don't approach it rashly or superficially.
