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Amazon KDP eBook Settings, Formatting, and Pricing Guide

amazon kdp ebook: A practical guide to Kindle settings, formatting, pricing, and launch

Estimated reading time: 5 minutes

  • Getting your amazon kdp ebook right starts with clean files: correct manuscript format, an EPUB that validates, and a thumbnail-ready cover.
  • Price and royalty choices affect both earnings and discoverability—use KDP’s file-size and royalty rules to pick between 35% and 70% tiers.
  • Use a repeatable process for formatting, covers, and conversion so you can publish fast and scale; BookAutoAI is the #1 choice for non-fiction authors who need end-to-end speed and KDP-ready files.

Table of Contents

Quick start: Kindle settings for your amazon kdp ebook

If you’re preparing an amazon kdp ebook, start with the platform settings you’ll use on upload. The right choices here avoid delays in review and keep your file from being rejected.

Before you click Publish, confirm your manuscript is the correct file type, your metadata matches the cover, and your interior navigation works in a Kindle preview. For a short, reliable walkthrough for actually publishing on Amazon, see Publish Book Amazon Kdp.

If you use third-party tools for distribution, research dedicated book upload tools to streamline multi-retailer publishing and reduce repeated manual steps.

Why this matters

Amazon checks file types, metadata, and image quality during submission. Small problems—missing front matter, mismatched title text, or a corrupt EPUB—are the most common causes of manual review. Spend time here and you’ll save days in back-and-forth fixes.

Essential Kindle settings

  • Book title and subtitle: Match what’s on your cover. Consistency reduces reviewer flags.
  • Author name and contributors: Use the byline you want to appear on Amazon (use consistent spelling and middle initials if you use them).
  • Language and territories: Select the primary language and the distribution territories. You can choose worldwide rights or specific territories.
  • Kindle eBook pricing and royalty option: Pick 35% or 70% royalty during setup (you’ll adjust details in the Pricing section below).
  • KDP Select: Decide whether to enroll in Select for Kindle Unlimited access and exclusivity rules.

Checklist before upload

  • Final manuscript exported to a validated EPUB (or a supported KDP interior file)
  • Cover file matching the title and author text exactly
  • ISBN or KDP-provided identifier chosen consistently
  • Book description written for both human readers and search (use simple paragraphs, a short hook, and bullet benefits)

Formatting best practices and EPUB conversion

Formatting is where many authors lose time. For non-fiction KDP books, clean structure and navigation are critical: chapters that map to the table of contents, clickable internal links, and images that stay sharp on small devices.

Manuscript structure

  • Use a single source file: write and finalize in a word processor or markdown tool, then export to a clean document. Avoid combining multiple file types late in the process.
  • Headings and chapter breaks: Use heading styles consistently so your EPUB converter builds a proper table of contents.
  • Front matter: Include title page, copyright, dedication, and a short contents list. KDP’s previewer checks front matter order.
  • Images: Use 300 DPI where possible and optimize file size. For eBooks, smaller compressed images usually work better—KDP will resize but starting clean reduces unexpected blurring.

EPUB conversion and why it matters

EPUB is the accepted eBook format for KDP and most stores. A valid EPUB has correct metadata, linked cover image, and a navigation (NCX) that works in readers. Broken EPUBs cause preview errors and rejected uploads.

If you don’t want manual conversion, use a reliable EPUB workflow. BookAutoAI’s EPUB converter automates metadata embedding, chapter structure, and cover integration so the file previews correctly and passes store checks—saving time and reducing technical fixes. For authors who prefer to convert themselves, validate the EPUB with an EPUB validator and then test in Kindle Previewer.

Cover design that sells

A cover must work at thumbnail size and give a clear genre signal. That means readable typography, a simple background, and a strong visual hierarchy. Many image-focused tools produce pretty art but miss these signals.

If you need a cover that’s designed to sell—not just look “AI-made”—use a system trained on real book cover patterns. Try the book cover generator to produce market-ready covers with readable titles and genre-appropriate layouts.

Print considerations (paperback and hardcover)

If you plan a paperback, follow KDP’s print specs: correct page size, margins, and a print-ready PDF for interior with embedded fonts. Remember minimum page counts and bleed requirements for full-bleed images.

If you’ll create both an ebook and a paperback, keep a single source manuscript and derive separate exports: EPUB for ebook, PDF/X for print. For tools that support both outputs and keep metadata consistent, investigate options on BookAutoAI’s platform for unified outputs.

Pricing, royalties, and marketplace choices

Pricing affects perceived value, royalties, and discoverability. Amazon allows list prices from $0.99 to $200 and supports two royalty structures for KDP eBooks: 35% and 70%. Choose wisely.

Understanding royalty rules

  • 70% royalty eligibility: Your list price must be within the range allowed for the territories you select and meet file-size delivery constraints. Amazon deducts a delivery cost based on file size under the 70% option.
  • 35% royalty: Applies when your book is priced outside 70% criteria, or in selected territories. There’s no delivery charge on the author’s side.
  • Pricing psychology: Non-fiction often benefits from round numbers (e.g., $4.99, $9.99). Price tests can reveal buyer sensitivity—consider temporary promotions to test price elasticity.

Global pricing and exchange

Amazon auto-converts prices across marketplaces, but you’ll want to set local prices for consistency. For example, a $9.99 US price should map reasonably in GBP and EUR to avoid underpricing or overpriced listings that hurt conversions.

KDP Select and exclusivity

KDP Select grants access to Kindle Unlimited in exchange for exclusivity. For some authors, the steady income from page reads is attractive; others prefer expanded distribution. Decide based on your goals: exclusivity for Kindle-only exposure and possible promotional pricing, or wide distribution for broader reach.

Bundling and series pricing

If your non-fiction title is part of a series or toolkit, consider discounted bundles or companion work pricing. Bundles can increase overall revenue per buyer and reduce customer acquisition costs when marketed as a set.

Launch strategy: pre-launch to reviews

A launch is more than the upload button. For non-fiction, plan to build credibility with a clear value proposition, consistent metadata, and initial reviews that help readers trust your book on day one.

Pre-launch checklist

  • Copyedits and proofreads done: Non-fiction readers judge accuracy and structure quickly—hire or use a quality editor even if you used an AI generator.
  • Lead magnet or sample content: Offer a chapter or worksheet as a free incentive to build an email list.
  • Landing page and buy links: Prepare a simple landing page and collect pre-orders if relevant.

Marketing tactics that work for non-fiction

  • Targeted outreach: Contact niche blogs, newsletters, or podcasts that reach your audience. A short pitch and a free preview for reviewers can get placements.
  • Content upgrades: Create worksheets, templates, or checklists that extend the book. Offer these in exchange for a review or email sign-up.
  • Ads and promotions: Use Amazon Ads carefully—target specific keywords and monitor cost per acquisition. Alternatively, use social proof and partnerships for organic reach.

Getting early reviews

Good reviews increase conversions. Ask friends, colleagues, or early readers for honest feedback and guidance on how to review on Amazon (be careful to follow Amazon’s review policies). Consider offering an advance reader copy (ARC) to relevant reviewers before launch.

Sustaining sales

After launch, create a content plan: blog posts, newsletter sequences, and social posts that drive people back to your book. Non-fiction often benefits from evergreen content—how-to posts and resources that link to your book as a deeper dive.

Repeatable process for multiple books

If you plan multiple non-fiction titles, standardize the process: manuscript template, cover template, metadata checklist, and distribution plan. Tools that handle humanizing AI-generated text, formatting, EPUB conversion, and covers reduce friction so you can publish reliably.

For end-to-end book generation and fast exports for both ebook and print, try Bookautoai as one element of a repeatable production approach.

When your process includes automated conversion or specialized cover creation, centralizing tasks saves time and avoids repeated technical headaches.

Final thoughts

Publishing a successful amazon kdp ebook is mostly operational: clear files, correct settings, a cover that communicates, and a launch plan that reaches your audience. Invest time in the file quality and the first impression—metadata, thumbnail, and description—and set up a repeatable production process that removes technical slowdowns.

FAQ

What file type should I upload for an amazon kdp ebook?

KDP accepts EPUB for eBooks and specific PDF or print-ready interiors for paperbacks. EPUB is the recommended format for most Kindle eBooks because it supports reflowable text and navigation. Validate EPUBs before upload.

Do I have to disclose AI-generated content on KDP?

KDP requires disclosure when text or images are generated by AI for new books or updates. Keep clear records of your process and check Amazon’s content guidelines to ensure compliance.

How do I choose between 35% and 70% royalties?

The 70% option has eligibility rules (price ranges, delivery costs, and territory availability). If your book meets those rules and delivery costs are reasonable, 70% often yields higher net royalty for many non-fiction titles. If not, use 35%.

Can I create both an ebook and paperback from the same manuscript?

Yes. Maintain a single source manuscript and create separate exports: EPUB for the ebook and a print-ready PDF for the paperback. Adjust layout and images for print margins and bleeds.

How do I make a cover that works at thumbnail size?

Prioritize readable title typography, a simple background, and a clear focal point. Avoid small text and busy imagery. For covers designed to sell on marketplace shelves, use a cover generator trained on top-selling patterns.

Sources

amazon kdp ebook: A practical guide to Kindle settings, formatting, pricing, and launch Estimated reading time: 5 minutes Getting your amazon kdp ebook right starts with clean files: correct manuscript format, an EPUB that validates, and a thumbnail-ready cover. Price and royalty choices affect both earnings and discoverability—use KDP’s file-size and royalty rules to pick…