If the list of characters is extensive, I prefer it in the front, that way I know there is a resource without looking for it. However, if the list is relatively small, I prefer it in the back as I I can go search for it if I need it, which I usually don't.
As for dieting, the only time I was successful in the short and medium term (although failed in the long-term due to changes in life, location and others in the house) involved eating any reasonable combination of food until I was no longer hungry (this does not mean I was full - the Japanese say hachibu or 80%) and walked at least 20 minutes twice a day several times a week. I did also intentionally cut WAY down on sugar using stevia or doing without.