Step by Step Guide to KDP (Kindle Direct Publishing, via Amazon)
Self-publishing can seem daunting and a bit scary. Below you will find my best attempt at talking you through it, step by step, with images and screen shots to hopefully make it less intimidating. If I can do you, anyone can!
Step by Step Guide to Kindle Direct Publishing (KDP)
So, you’re ready to publish your paperback on Amazon KDP?
Awesome. It might seem like a lot at first, but trust me, it’s pretty straightforward once you break it down. I’ve taken screenshots of the process while publishing Thorns of Tragedy and Truth, so I’ll walk you through it just like I did mine. (But bear in mind, this is how I do it, it may not be the right way or the best way, but its a way that has worked...... so far!)
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Step 1: Log into KDP & Start a New Paperback
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Head over to KDP and sign in. If you don’t have an account yet, you’ll need to create one. Once you’re in:
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Click “Create” and select Paperback.
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If you already have an ebook version, KDP will ask if you want to link it—totally up to you, but it keeps things neat.​
​​​​​​​​​​​​Step 2: Enter Your Paperback Details
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This is where you input your book’s title, subtitle (if you have one), and author name. You’ll also choose whether this is part of a series, an edition number, and add contributors (editors, illustrators, etc.).
Things to consider:
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Your title must match what’s on your cover exactly.
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If you have a subtitle, make sure it’s relevant but not stuffed with keywords (Amazon doesn’t like that).
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Add a description that hooks readers—this is what they’ll see on your book’s product page.
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Complete the remaining questions, and select a release date.
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Step 3: Choose ISBN Options
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Here, you decide whether to use a free KDP-assigned ISBN or buy your own.
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Free ISBN: Easiest option, but Amazon will be listed as the “publisher.”
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Your own ISBN: More control, better for wider distribution, and you can add a "publisher" name (I use "Bell of Ash And Sky Press" as it is honoring some importance to me)
If you’re using your own ISBN, make sure you have one ready from Bowker (US) or the appropriate ISBN provider in your country, links for ISBN suppliers in various countries can be found on the Downloads and Links page.
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​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​Step 4: Select Print Options
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Now, let’s get into the physical details of your book:
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Print Size: The most common for fiction is 5”x8” or 6”x9”, but it depends on your genre and preference. The template on this site is for a 5.5" x 8.5" but also works well for 6" x 9".
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Paper Color: White, cream, or black-and-white interior.
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Bleed Settings: If your book has full-page images, select Bleed. If not, choose No Bleed.
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Cover Finish: Glossy or matte. (I usually go matte, but glossy works great for some designs.)
​Step 5: Upload Your Manuscript & Cover
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Here’s where you add the actual book files.
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Manuscript: Upload your formatted PDF. If you used Word, make sure it’s properly formatted with correct margins and page numbers.
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Cover: Upload a print-ready PDF that matches KDP’s template.
If you don’t have one, use KDP’s Cover Creator it has a tutorial on how to use it when you open it, but it is a little bit limited (I can add a step by step guide if there is a demand, but its relatively simple albeit frustrating).
Or you can upload your own, go to the KDP Cover Creator page and enter your books details and it will provide you with a template you can download and use on photoshop, Canva, etc. (I will be adding a guide to that shortly for how I created the cover for Thorns of Tragedy and Truth.)
Once both are uploaded, and the AI declaration complete, use KDP’s Previewer to check for errors. This step is crucial—make sure there’s no weird spacing or cutoff text. It is kind of exciting because you are looking at how your book will appear when it is printed, so please please please take your time to review properly. Once reviewed, KDP will give you the details of printing costs. ​
​Step 6: Set Your Pricing & Distribution
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Now for the fun part—setting your price!
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Choose your territories (Worldwide or specific regions).
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Select your price: KDP will suggest a minimum price based on printing costs.
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Expanded distribution: If you want libraries and bookstores to stock your book, enable this (but note that royalty rates will be slightly lower).
Pricing tip: Check similar books in your genre and price competitively. You don’t want to go too high and scare off readers, but you also deserve to be paid fairly for your work. I struggle with pricing and tend to go for 9.99. But go with what suits you best.
You can also choose to order proof copies from this page, up to 5 copies at cost. You will be emailed with a link within 4 hours and then purchase through Amazon. They will say "Not for Resale" across them.​
​​​​​​Step 7: Review & Publish
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Once everything looks good:
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Click “Save & Publish”.
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KDP will review your book (this takes up to 72 hours, but it’s usually faster).
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Once approved, your paperback will be live on Amazon!
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Final Thoughts
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Eff Yeah!!! That’s it! Your book is now available for readers to order in print. Well done!! Take a moment to enjoy the feeling.
A few things to keep in mind:
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You can order author copies at a discounted price for yourself.
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If you ever need to update your manuscript or cover, you can do so, but your book will go through KDP’s review process again.
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Promoting your book is key—just because it’s on Amazon doesn’t mean people will automatically find it.
Now, go forth and publish that book! And if you have any questions, feel free to drop a comment or reach out—happy to help! Writers supporting writers, independently together!