KDP publishing guide
What Is Amazon KDP? A Beginner’s Guide to Self-Publishing
Understand what Kindle Direct Publishing does, how a print book moves from files to a product page, and what authors need to review.
Published by KDP Maker
Last reviewed: October 15, 2026. Verify requirements in Amazon KDP before publishing.
Prepare your book before upload
Learn how KDP Maker fits into the publishing process and review the print-file checklist.
In brief
Amazon Kindle Direct Publishing (KDP) is Amazon’s self-publishing service. Authors and publishers use it to prepare book details and files for Amazon stores, including print editions such as paperbacks and hardcovers. Print books are made when customers order them, subject to the options available for the book and marketplace.
What does KDP do?
KDP provides a place to enter book information, upload the manuscript and cover, choose available print and distribution settings, set prices, and review the book before publication. After submission, Amazon reviews the book. If it is approved, the book can appear in the selected Amazon stores.
KDP’s current options, requirements, timing, and availability may vary by format, marketplace, and book. Always check the Amazon KDP Help Center for the latest instructions.
A typical print-book journey
- Prepare an interior file and a matching cover for the chosen book format.
- Enter the title, author, description, keywords, categories, rights, and other book details.
- Select the available print options, territories, and list price.
- Upload the files and inspect the book in KDP Print Previewer. Resolve issues that apply to your book.
- Submit the title and check its status and live product details in your KDP account.
How KDP Maker fits in
KDP Maker is a separate preparation workspace for coloring books and paperback diaries. It can help create and review book files, but you remain responsible for the final content and submission. It does not publish directly to Amazon or guarantee that KDP will accept a file.
Learn what KDP Maker is, see how its user-facing workflow works, or read the print-file checklist.
What to check before publishing
- Confirm that you own or have permission to use the text, artwork, and other material.
- Make sure the files match the selected trim size, print settings, and bleed choice.
- Review the listing information, pricing, rights, and any required content disclosures.
- Inspect the uploaded files in KDP Print Previewer and follow Amazon’s current help guidance.