Index is one of those cards players keep asking about. Here is, in plain words, what its official text says, the rulings published by Wizards of the Coast, and the combos players actually run.
Official card text
Look at the top five cards of your library, then put them back in any order.
Complete guide
Index is a classic blue sorcery that offers players a glimpse into their immediate future. For just one blue mana, you gain the ability to organize your upcoming turns by rearranging the top of your library. While it doesn't provide card advantage, its power lies in setting up the perfect sequence of draws.
Filtering Your Future
When Index resolves, you look at the top five cards of your library. You do not show these cards to your opponents. You then place all five cards back on top of your library in any order you choose. This allows you to ensure you draw lands when you need them or spells when you are looking for a finisher.
Step-by-Step Resolution
First, cast Index by paying one blue mana. Upon resolution, physically pick up or look at the top five cards of your library. Decide which card you want to draw next, which one you want second, and so on. Finally, place the cards back on top of your library in that specific order. Once the spell finishes resolving, it is placed in your graveyard.
Common Pitfalls
A common mistake is treating Index like a 'draw' spell; remember, it does not put any cards into your hand. Additionally, unlike some other library-manipulation spells, Index does not give you an option to shuffle your library. Once you look at those five cards, they must stay on top unless another effect moves them later.
When to Cast Index
Index is most effective during your main phase when you have a way to draw extra cards immediately afterward. It is also useful in the early game to ensure you don't miss land drops, or in the late game to dig for a specific answer to your opponent's threats.
Interaction examples
PonderIf you cast Index and see five cards you don't like, you are stuck with them. However, if you follow up with Ponder on the next turn, you can look at the top three, decide you still don't like them, and use Ponder's ability to shuffle your library, effectively clearing away the unwanted cards you saw with Index.
PreordainAfter casting Index to arrange your top five cards, you can use Preordain to move the top two cards to the bottom if your needs change. This combination allows you to dig even deeper, essentially interacting with the top seven cards of your deck to find exactly what you need.
Guide written with AI from the official text and rulings. Official English text prevails.
How it works : Index
Original English text — Wizards of the Coast / Scryfall
No additional ruling has been published for this card.
Legal formats
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Meta decks with Index
No archived Top 8 deck with this card yet.