Back matter is a term used to describe the additional information that appears at the end of an article or book. This can include things like an author's biography, a list of sources or references, an index, and any additional information that the reader might need.
In academic writing, the back matter often contains works cited, a bibliography or references section. This is particularly important because it demonstrates that the writer has conducted thorough research and is drawing upon credible sources of information. In many cases, the author may include links to any sources that are available online, to make it easier for the reader to locate the information.
In addition to works cited or references, the back matter may also include appendices, which can contain additional details that the author thinks are important to understanding the subject. This could include charts, tables, or other data that is not necessary to the main narrative but is relevant to the subject matter.
Another key component of back matter is the index. This is essentially a list of terms and concepts that appear in the text, along with the page numbers where they can be found. This is particularly useful for readers who are interested in specific topics and want to quickly locate relevant information.
Overall, back matter serves an important function in helping readers understand the context and sources of the information presented in an article or book. It also allows the author to provide additional information and data that might not fit comfortably into the main narrative, ensuring that the reader has a comprehensive understanding of the subject.
