First, set the index finger (1) so that its tip rests upon the string.
Second, place it so that it lies outside the string.
Third, place it so that it lies inside the string.

Sabur, Bahram Gur, and others maintain that the index finger should be outside the string; Abu Hashim chose the same view. This is the ancient style of shooting and serves well with stiff bows.

Tahir and the seasoned experts of the craft hold that the finger ought to rest on the string, for this sharpens the arrow’s flight and speeds the release.

Ishaq’s method is to keep the index finger inside the string.

Some archers explain it thus: whoever twists the grip will find his index finger lengthened and his thumb shortened, so the finger ends up (2) inside the string. Whoever keeps the grip straight will find his index finger shortened and his thumb lengthened, so the finger (3) ends up outside the string. Whoever takes a middle course between the two will have the finger resting on the string.

The rule for the index finger is that two-thirds of its flesh and one-third of its nail should make contact, with half the finger on the string and the other half outside it, positioned above the arrow on the side nearest the index finger. He should neither extend it unduly nor (4) pull it back excessively, for if, when placed inside the string, the finger is too long, the string will strike across the breadth of the finger.