Amazon KDP 101: How to Publish Your Book Step by Step
You’ve written your book. You’ve polished it. You’re ready to launch it into the world.
Now comes the question: How exactly do I publish this thing?
If you're planning to self-publish, chances are you’ll use Amazon KDP (Kindle Direct Publishing). The biggest, most accessible platform for indie authors today.
Let’s walk through exactly how to publish your book on Amazon KDP, step-by-step, even if you’ve never done it before.
What is Amazon KDP?
Amazon KDP is Amazon’s self-publishing platform for both eBooks and paperbacks.
It allows authors to:
Upload their books directly to Amazon
Control pricing, categories, and keywords
Earn up to 70% royalties
Distribute worldwide (with print-on-demand)
And the best part? It’s free to use.
You only pay for your own print copies (if you want them), or the tools and services you choose to invest in (like editing or cover design).
How to Publish on Amazon KDP: Step-by-Step
Here’s what the process looks like from start to finish:
1. Create a KDP Account
Visit kdp.amazon.com and sign in with your Amazon account (or create a new one just for publishing).
2. Click “Create a New Title”
Choose between:
Kindle eBook
Paperback
Hardcover (optional)
You can publish multiple formats, but start with one.
3. Enter Your Book Details
You’ll be prompted to add:
Book title & subtitle
Series name (if applicable)
Author name
Book description (this appears on your Amazon sales page)
Publishing rights (select “This is my own work”)
Tip: Spend time crafting your book description. This is what sells your book to potential readers! But remember, this can be updated and changed anytime after publishing, so don’t let this stop you from publishing now!
4. Choose Keywords & Categories
Keywords: Think like a reader. What would someone type to find a book like yours?
Categories: Amazon lets you choose two — try to be specific! (e.g., “Women’s Fiction > Family Life” or “Nonfiction > Creativity”)
Pro Tip: You can request up to 10 categories later through Author Central.
5. Upload Your Manuscript and Cover
Upload your formatted manuscript (PDF for print, EPUB or DOCX for eBook)
Upload your cover file (or use Amazon’s Cover Creator tool)
Preview how your book will look
Formatting matters. Your book should be properly sized and styled. Use tools like Atticus, Vellum, Reedsy, or Canva (for covers).
6. Set Your Pricing & Royalties
Choose marketplaces (Amazon US, UK, etc.)
Select a price
eBooks priced between $2.99–$9.99 earn 70% royalties
Paperbacks have printing costs deducted
Decide if you want KDP Select (eBook exclusive to Amazon for 90 days — allows Kindle Unlimited eligibility)
Tip: Look at similar books in your genre to set competitive pricing. You can always adjust it later.
7. Hit “Publish” and Celebrate!
Once you hit publish, your book will go live within 72 hours (often much sooner!).
Formatting Requirements: What You Need to Know
For the smoothest publishing experience, follow these formatting tips:
Interior File:
eBook: EPUB, DOCX, or KPF (Kindle Previewer format)
Paperback: PDF with embedded fonts, sized to your trim (e.g., 6x9” or 5.25x8”)
Cover File:
PDF or JPG
Must match your trim size + include spine if for paperback
300 dpi resolution recommended
To make it easier, use Amazon’s Cover Calculator & Templates to get it right.
How to Choose the Right Keywords & Categories
Your visibility depends heavily on these choices:
Keywords help Amazon’s algorithm show your book to the right shoppers
Categories place you in genre-specific charts — with potential for #1 status
Brainstorm:
What problems does your book solve?
What genres/themes best describe it?
What are your ideal readers searching for?
You can update keywords and categories at any time, so keep tweaking and testing post-launch!
Final Thought
Publishing on Amazon KDP might seem overwhelming at first — but once you walk through it step-by-step, it becomes empowering.
This is the moment you go from aspiring author to published author. Whether you’re launching your first book or your fifth, remember this:
You are in control. You don’t need permission. You just need the right tools. And the courage to hit publish.
Need Help Publishing Your Book?
We’ve helped dozens of first-time authors navigate Amazon KDP with ease — from formatting to launch day and beyond.
