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KDP Tools Hub

The KDP Publishing Checklist

60 practical steps from finished manuscript to post-launch, grouped into 8 stages. Print it, or use the interactive version that saves your progress in your browser.

1. Manuscript

  • Complete developmental and line edits, then a separate proofread.A fresh reader catches errors you will skip over. Proofread after formatting too, because formatting can introduce new problems.
  • Add front matter: title page and copyright page (with the correct ISBN for each print edition).Kindle eBooks do not need an ISBN. Use a different ISBN for paperback and hardcover.
  • Add back matter: About the Author, other books, and a clear next step for readers (newsletter or next book).
  • Use consistent heading styles for every chapter title so the table of contents builds correctly.
  • Include a linked table of contents in the Kindle edition and test every link.
  • Format the print interior for your chosen trim size with KDP's minimum margins, including the gutter.The inside margin (gutter) grows with page count. Check yours with a margin calculator before exporting.
  • Confirm the print page count is within KDP's limits (minimum 24 pages for paperback).Your final page count also sets your spine width and printing cost, so lock it before the cover is finished.
  • Export the print interior as a PDF with all fonts embedded, and the eBook as EPUB, DOCX or KPF.

2. Cover

  • Calculate full-wrap cover dimensions from your final page count, paper type and trim size.Spine width changes with every page, so recalculate if the interior changes.
  • Extend background art 0.125" (3.2 mm) past every trim edge for bleed.
  • Add spine text only if your book has at least 79 pages, and keep it centered with clearance on both sides.Below that page count the spine is too narrow for reliable text placement, so KDP will not accept spine text.
  • Keep titles, author name and key art inside the safe area, away from trim edges and the spine folds.
  • Leave space on the back cover for the barcode, or place your own barcode where KDP specifies.
  • Export the print cover as a single PDF with images at 300 DPI or higher.
  • Create a separate front-only eBook cover image (JPEG or TIFF) at KDP's recommended size.
  • Check that the title is readable at thumbnail size, the way most shoppers first see it.

3. Metadata

  • Enter the title and subtitle exactly as they appear on the cover and title page.
  • Use the same author name spelling on every format so Amazon can link the editions.
  • Add series name and number if the book is part of a series.
  • Write and format the book description (up to 4,000 characters).Lead with a hook in the first two lines, since that is what shows before the "Read more" link.
  • Fill all 7 keyword fields with phrases readers actually search for.Do not repeat words already in your title, and avoid other authors' names, trademarks and claims like "bestseller".
  • Choose your categories during setup, picking the most specific ones that honestly fit the book.
  • Answer KDP's AI-generated content question accurately for text, images and translations.
  • Set the reading age or grade range if the book is for children or teens.
  • Assign the paperback ISBN: a free KDP ISBN or one you own (your own ISBN lists you as the publisher).

4. Proof

  • Open the online previewer during setup and fix every issue it flags before submitting.
  • Order a printed proof copy before you publish the paperback.Proof copies carry a "Not for Resale" mark. Ordering one early gives you time to fix problems before launch.
  • Check the printed proof for margins, gutter, page numbers, running headers and image quality.
  • Check cover colors, sharpness and spine alignment on the proof.Spine folds can vary slightly in printing (about 0.0625"), so avoid hard lines that must sit exactly on the fold.
  • Review the eBook in Kindle Previewer on phone, tablet and e-reader views.
  • Ask a second person to page through the proof and the eBook preview.

5. Publishing

  • Complete the tax interview and add payment details in your KDP account.
  • Decide whether to enroll the eBook in KDP Select.KDP Select requires the eBook to be exclusive to Amazon for each 90-day enrollment period. Print editions are not affected.
  • Choose the eBook royalty option and set prices for each marketplace.Check that each price falls inside the range that qualifies for your chosen royalty rate.
  • Set paperback prices that cover printing cost in every marketplace you sell in.
  • Decide whether to turn on Expanded Distribution for the paperback (it pays a lower royalty rate).
  • Decide on DRM for the eBook before publishing.The DRM setting cannot be changed after the eBook is published.
  • If you use a pre-order, upload the final manuscript at least 72 hours before the release date.Missing the final file deadline can cancel the pre-order and limit your ability to use pre-orders for a time.
  • Submit each format and allow a few days for KDP's review before your announced launch date.

6. Marketing

  • Set up your Amazon Author Central profile with a photo and bio, and claim the book.
  • Create A+ Content for the product page.A+ Content is reviewed separately after submission, so prepare the images early.
  • Send advance reader copies to readers who may review honestly after launch.Never pay for reviews or offer rewards for positive ones. Amazon's review policies apply.
  • Prepare your launch emails and a simple page where readers can find the book.
  • Plan Amazon Ads campaigns with a daily budget and a break-even ACOS you know in advance.
  • Collect editorial reviews or endorsements you have permission to quote.
  • Make social images and a short pitch for the book in a few sizes.

7. Launch

  • Confirm the book is live and searchable on each marketplace you published to.
  • Check that the paperback, hardcover and eBook appear together on one product page.If formats have not linked after a few days, contact KDP support and ask them to link the editions.
  • Check that prices display correctly in each marketplace.
  • Announce to your email list and social channels with direct links.
  • Start your ad campaigns and note the start date for later comparison.
  • Remind advance readers that the book is live and reviews are welcome.
  • If enrolled in KDP Select, schedule a Kindle Countdown Deal or free promotion if it fits your plan.

8. Post-launch

  • Review sales and Kindle Unlimited page reads in your KDP reports each week.
  • Adjust ad bids and pause keywords that spend without converting.
  • Refresh keywords and categories based on what is working.
  • Fix reported typos and upload corrected files.Updated files go through review again, and print changes may require new proof checks.
  • Read reviews for patterns that could improve the description, cover or next book.
  • Update back matter with links to your next book or pre-order when it is ready.
  • Keep records of royalties, ad spend and costs for your taxes.

KDP requirements change from time to time. Confirm details in your KDP Bookshelf before publishing. KDP Tools Hub is an independent resource and is not affiliated with or endorsed by Amazon.com, Inc. or its affiliates.

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