How to Publish a Book for Free on Amazon Kindle Direct Publishing (KDP)

William Brown By William Brown 2025-09-13 - 08:32

Why Choose Amazon KDP?

Amazon’s Kindle Direct Publishing platform allows authors to bring their manuscripts to a global audience without any upfront costs. By publishing for free, you retain full creative control and earn royalties up to 70% on each sale.

Step 1: Prepare Your Manuscript

Before you upload, ensure your manuscript is polished. Follow these guidelines:

  • Format: Use a Word (.doc/.docx) or a PDF file. KDP also accepts ePub and MOBI formats.
  • Layout: Apply standard margins, double‑space your text, and use a readable font such as Times New Roman 12 pt.
  • Proofread: Run a spell‑check and consider a professional or peer review to catch errors.

Step 2: Create a Compelling Cover

A striking cover can boost click‑through rates. You have two free options:

  • KDP Cover Creator: An online tool with templates, fonts, and royalty‑free images.
  • Public Domain Images: Use sites like Pixabay or Unsplash to find high‑resolution images, then add your title and author name.

Remember to follow Amazon’s size requirements (minimum 1,600 px on the longest side) and keep text legible.

Step 3: Set Up Your KDP Account

If you don’t already have an Amazon account, sign up for free. Then:

  1. Visit kdp.amazon.com and click “Create a New Title.”
  2. Select “Kindle eBook” or “Paperback” depending on your format.
  3. Enter your book’s details: title, subtitle, author name, and a concise, keyword‑rich description.

Step 4: Upload Your Files

In the “Manuscript” section, upload your formatted document. In the “Cover” section, either upload your custom cover or use the Cover Creator. KDP will automatically generate a preview; review it for any formatting issues.

Step 5: Choose Pricing & Royalty Options

Amazon lets you set a price anywhere from $0.99 to $9.99 for the 70% royalty tier, or higher for the 35% tier. Set the price to $0 if you want to enroll in KDP Select’s “Free Promotion” for up to five days per 90‑day enrollment period.

Step 6: Publish and Promote

Click “Publish” and your book will appear on Amazon within 24‑48 hours. To drive traffic:

  • Share the Amazon link on social media.
  • Leverage free promotional days via KDP Select.
  • Encourage readers to leave honest reviews.

Final Tips for Success

Consistency is key. Keep your author page updated, interact with readers, and consider releasing a series to build momentum. By following these steps, you can publish a professional‑looking book on Amazon completely free of charge and start earning royalties today.

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How to Publish a Book for Free on Amazon Kindle Direct Publishing (KDP)

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