Unable to Generate Index in InDesign Due to "Incorrect Characters"

[Pierre29117802ncj1]

Hello
I need to generate an index on 600 pages with 6000 entries... They have been imported from a word file. The index cannot be generated because of “incorrect characters”. But I don't know which ones? Can you help me? Many thanks

<Title renamed by MOD>

[Abhishek Rao]

Hi @Pierre29117802ncj1,

Thank you for reaching out! I understand how challenging it must be to encounter issues generating an index with such a large file. To better assist you, could you please share the version of InDesign you’re currently using and details about your operating system?

It seems that the "incorrect characters" message usually appears due to special or hidden characters that are not supported in index entries. A possible solution is to carefully review your imported text for any non-printing or special characters that might be causing the issue.

Please try the below:

1. Search for special characters: Use InDesign’s Find/Change feature to locate and remove any non-printable or special characters that may have been imported.
2. Review entries manually: Check the Word document for any unusual formatting or symbols that might have carried over into the index entries.
3. Re-import or clean up text: If necessary, you might want to clean up the text in Word before importing it again.

Please also share if you encounter the issue with one specific section or the entire document. If you have any further questions, feel free to ask!

Leaving the platform open for more insights by our esteemed community experts. 

Thank you, 
Abhishek Rao

[Robert at ID-Tasker]

@Pierre29117802ncj1

Can you share your document? Can be on priv if you prefer - please click my nickname. 

Please ZIP your file, upload it somewhere and post or send a link. 

[Pierre29117802ncj1]

Thank you very much for your answers.
I tried to generate the index document by document, rather than on the whole book. I found the ones that didn't work and looked at each entry. The problem was two duplicates and a hyperlink embedded in an entry!
Have a nice day!