Enhancing Data Retrieval: A Guide to Indexed Columns in SharePoint Lists

SharePoint index columns enhance speed in large lists by frequently filtering and querying columns, while a special column called “index column” saves values for search keys in SharePoint Online.

a) How do I add indexed columns in SharePoint Online ?

1. First, navigate to a specific SharePoint Online list or library. Click the gear or settings icon to select List settings.

2. Then, select the index column under the Columns section.

3. After that, click on the Create a New Index button in the Index Columns window.

4. Next, navigate to the primary column in the index drop-down menu and click on Create.

5. Finally, the index column has been created for the specific SharePoint list.

b) How to compound-index a column in SharePoint Online ?

1. First, navigate to the Create Index Column page and select both primary and secondary columns for indexing.

2. Then, secondary column can only use certain column types, but not all are supported. Enabled columns for the “auxiliary columns” dropdown will be supported.

3. After that, click Create.

4. Finally, a composite index column will be created in the SharePoint list, and the Index Columns page will appear.

c) How do I create an indexed column automatically through the SharePoint list view filter ?

1. First, expand the All Items view and select Edit current view.

2. Then, select the “Old Post Update” status type column from the Filter section, and it will appear on the Index Columns page as it has been automatically indexed.

3. Finally, it will display the image that is the same as below.

d) How do I remove an index in SharePoint Online ?

1. First, navigate to the Index Columns page and select the column you wish to remove.

2. Then, click Delete.

3. Finally, click OK to delete, and if you want to cancel, click “Cancel“.