How to Self-Publish a Book on Amazon in 2025: A Step-by-Step Guide

Key TakeawayS

Research your genre and keywords before writing.
Format manuscript to KDP specs (print and ebook).
Design a market‑ready cover.
Upload via Amazon KDP and set price.
Optimize your book listing with 2025 SEO best practices.
Launch with a targeted marketing plan.

1. Research Your Genre and Keywords

Firstly, identify your target readers. Use tools like Publisher Rocket or Ahrefs to find high‑traffic keywords for “self‑publish a book on Amazon,” “Indie author tips,” and “2025 book marketing.” Note search volume and competition. Then refine your book concept around top keywords.

2. Format Your Manuscript to KDP Specs

Next, prepare both ebook and print formats:

Use Word or InDesign to set trim size (e.g., 6×9 inches).
Insert page numbers and headers.
Embed fonts under 50 KB.
Export as PDF for print; use MOBI or EPUB for ebooks.
Validate with Amazon’s Previewer tool.

3. Design a Market‑Ready Cover

Then, craft a cover that converts:

Hire a pro designer or use Canva templates optimized for KDP.
Include readable title and subtitle in thumbnail view.
Adhere to KDP’s bleed and spine‑width guidelines.
Test thumbnail impact by viewing at 2×2 inches.

4. Create Your Amazon KDP Account

After formatting and design, sign up at kdp.amazon.com. Provide:

Tax and payment info for royalty payments.
Author bio rich in keywords (e.g., “self‑publish a book on Amazon,” “Indie author coach”).
Upload profile image (professional headshot).

5. Upload Manuscript and Cover

Then, in your KDP dashboard:

Click “Create a new title.”
Fill in book details: title, subtitle, series info.
Paste SEO‑optimized description (use HTML for bold headings).
Upload manuscript and cover files.
Preview both ebook and print proofs.

6. Set Pricing, Rights, and Royalties

Next, choose your territories and pricing tier.

Select 70% royalty for ebooks priced $2.99–$9.99.
Consider expanded distribution for print.
Adjust price based on competitor analysis.

7. Optimize Your Book Listing with 2025 SEO

Then, boost discoverability by:

Inserting 7 backend keywords (no duplicates).
Choosing 2–3 categories that match your genre.
Using bullet points in your description for readability.
Adding A+ Content (if eligible) for richer branding.

8. Launch with a Targeted Marketing Plan

Finally, build buzz:

Pre‑order campaigns via BookFunnel.
Email list promotion with MailerLite.
Social ads targeting readers by interest.
ARC reviews from NetGalley or Reedsy.

9. Post‑Launch: Gather Reviews and Monitor Sales

After launch, ask readers for honest reviews. Use KDP reports to track:

Daily sales trends
Page reads (for Kindle Unlimited)
Conversion rate of pricing experiments

Ready to publish? Contact the WriteLight Group for expert help with self‑publishing, cover design, and web promotion. We’ll guide you from manuscript to bestseller.

Written by Joey Pedras

TrueFuture Media and WriteLight Staff

Joey is a creative professional with a decade of experience in digital marketing and content creation. His passion for storytelling drives his excellence in photography, video editing, and writing. Whether producing captivating infographics, developing a video series, or diving into social media analytics, Joey transforms complex ideas into content that resonates. Click this box to visit our Meet the Team page and read his full biography.