Publishing your first book is a surreal experience. Although, trying to figure out how to publish a book on Amazon can be daunting. The fact is, Amazon’s Kindle Direct Publishing is a godsend affordable, straightforward, and available to all authors, no matter where they are in their writing career. In this guide, you will be taken through how to publish your book on Amazon, attract readers, and grow your brand.
Why Choose Amazon-KDP
Amazon KDP is the world’s top self-publishing site for those who don’t know. Amazon allows writers to publish and sell their books in paperback and eBook form without paying anything upfront. For every sale, you will be paid royalties, up to 70% of the list price. Amazon-KDP offers a degree of independence and a massive global platform to any first-time author that gives them complete control over pricing, design, and distribution. It’s your story, your book, and your vision. , .
How to Prepare your Manuscript
Before you go ahead, ensure your book is fit for reader’s eyes:
- Edit till your heart is content: A well edited manuscript enhances your credibility. Consider using a professional editor or editing software to assist with the clarity and structure.
- Format for Kindle: Amazon accepts.docx,.epub, and.pdf files. Proper structure ensures your book is legible to your audience, no matter where they want to read it.
- Proofread once more since a professional eye is better at catching spelling errors.
- Reedsy’s formatting guide can give you more insight if you have trouble with the above steps.
How to Design a Book Cover?
The front page of your book is the first thing anyone sees. Redesigning increases your probability of being noticed by prospective readers.
Websites That Offer Affordable Cover Design for Beginners
Start with Canva, a free online platform featuring a wide assortment of book cover templates. Fiverr also offers cheap cover design by freelance professionals.
Create Your Amazon KDP Account
Head to KDP.Amazon.com and sign in with your existing Amazon account. Click “Create a new title” to publish a Kindle eBook, a paperback or both!
You will need:
a. The book’s title and subtitle
b. The book author’s name
c. A book description (hint: this is your sales pitch)
d. Keywords and categories to help readers find your book
Keep this description straightforward and engaging it’s what will convince readers to buy your book.
Create a Preview and Upload Your Book
Next, load your cover and manuscript file and use KDP’s Previewer tool to see how the book will look to readers. Do a final checkup for formatting and spacing issues? Set your pricing and royalties. Most authors opt for the 70% royalty option for e-books costing between $2.99 and $9.99.
Publish and Promote
Click “Publish” and allow Amazon to review your submission. This can take from 24-72 hours. Once the construction is approved, your book will be available all around Amazon. But don’t stop there; the country in on promotion. Share the book social media. Ask for some early reviews. Run some Amazon Ads, or offer a time-limited discount to increase visibility. For long-term success, you also need to build your author platform. For example, start blogging or guest posting at Be Bold Digital.
Conclusion
Learning how to publish a Book on Amazon is one of the most rewarding things you can do early in your author career. It’s straightforward, and it sets you up for empowerment for life. You deserve that feeling. Start today!
