Self-publishing a book on Amazon is a simple process thanks to its Kindle Direct Publishing (KDP) platform. Here are the steps:
Contents
Create a KDP account: Register and Complete your profile
Login to Kindle Direct Publishing and register with your Amazon account or create a new one. Then, complete your profile: add your tax and banking information, as it is required to receive payments.
Prepare your manuscript
File format
Amazon KDP accepts formats such as Word (.doc, .docx), PDF, or ePub. For ebooks, ePub format is ideal, while for physical books you can use PDF.
Check the structure
Make sure the book is properly formatted for publication, with a front cover, back cover, table of contents (for ebooks), and good layout.
Design a cover
Design it yourself or use tools: You can design it yourself using tools like Canva or hire a designer. If you have no experience, KDP also offers a free Cover Creator.
Cover Specifications
The cover must be in JPEG or TIFF format, with a minimum resolution of 300 dpi.
Upload your book to KDP
Format
Upload your file in the selected format (ePub, PDF, Word). KDP will convert the file for the Kindle.
Preview the book
Use KDP’s preview tool to make sure it looks correct on different devices.
Set up publishing details
Title and description
Choose an attractive title and write a description that engages readers.
Keywords and categories
Select relevant keywords so that your book is easily found. Also choose appropriate categories.
Copyright
You can choose between “Standard copyright” or put the book in the public domain if you wish.
Set price and royalties
KDP allows you to choose between two royalty options: 35% or 70%, depending on price and distribution territory.
Then, choose the price for your book, both for the Amazon marketplace in the United States and in other countries.
Publish your book on Amazon
Once everything is set up, click Publish.
Your book will be available on Amazon in about 72 hours, both in digital and physical format (if you choose the print-on-demand option).
Promotion
Take advantage of the marketing tools offered by Amazon, such as Kindle Promotions or Kindle Unlimited, to increase the visibility of your book.
You can also share it on social networks, create a launch strategy, or use paid campaigns to attract readers.
Would you like to learn more about any of these steps or get more tips on self-publishing? Leave a comment.