Here are the top five Amazon self-publishing best practices for 2025. Follow KDP rules, dial in your metadata, upgrade your book page, price with royalties in mind, and plan a steady launch. Do these well and your book can reach more readers and earn more.
Top 5 Amazon self-publishing best practices
- Obey KDP content rules and disclose AI-generated material when required.
- Choose accurate categories and reader-language keywords.
- Upgrade your product page with a pro cover, a scannable description, and A+ content modules.
- Price with royalties in mind and understand 35% vs 70% for ebooks and current print rules.
- Plan a steady launch using Author Central, KDP promotions, and light Amazon Ads testing.
Amazon self-publishing best practices 2025 checklist
- ☐ Confirm your book follows KDP Content Guidelines and disclose AI-generated material if used.
- ☐ Proofread and format cleanly for Kindle and print; check headings, TOC, and image quality.
- ☐ Pick up to three accurate categories that match reader intent.
- ☐ Enter up to seven natural-language keywords that readers actually type.
- ☐ Design a genre-appropriate cover that is clear at thumbnail size.
- ☐ Write a scannable description with a hook, short paragraphs, and clear subheads.
- ☐ Add A+ Content to showcase comparisons, series order, or interior previews.
- ☐ Choose the right royalty plan and verify list-price rules for each marketplace.
- ☐ For print, confirm trim size, paper, ink choice, and spine width before approving the proof.
- ☐ Set up your Author Central profile and link all formats and series.
- ☐ Plan a simple promo stack: newsletter share, KDP promo (Free or Countdown), and a small Amazon Ads test.
- ☐ Track results and publish the next book to build readthrough.
1) Stay compliant with KDP rules in 2025
Before you upload, confirm your book follows KDP Content Guidelines. If any text, images, or translations are AI-generated, disclose that during setup. You do not need to disclose AI-assisted work. This keeps your account safe and readers informed. KDP Content Guidelines
- Use original, non-infringing content and accurate metadata.
- Deliver clean files with accessible navigation and readable images.
2) Make smarter metadata choices: categories and keywords
Categories and keywords tell Amazon’s store who your book is for. Pick the three most accurate categories and seven natural-language keywords readers actually type. Learn how to choose search-friendly phrases with this KDP keyword guidance.
Quick tips
- Search Amazon like a reader. Note autosuggest terms and top sellers in your niche.
- Use specific phrases over vague terms. Example: “cozy mystery culinary” beats “mystery.”
- Avoid repetition. Do not repeat words already covered by title, subtitle, series, or categories.
Related reads: Step-by-step Amazon guide · eBook distribution options
3) Upgrade your book page for higher conversion
Cover and images
- Design for genre cues and thumbnail clarity across mobile and desktop.
- For print, size your full-wrap cover with correct bleed and spine width.
Description that scans
- Lead with a hook. Use short paragraphs, clear subheads, and keep within the editor’s character limit.
A+ Content
Add “From the Publisher” modules to showcase comparisons, character art, or interior peeks. Done well, A+ content can lift trust and time on page.
Related read: KDP royalties explained
4) Price with royalties in mind
| Format | Key royalty points |
|---|---|
| Kindle eBook | Two plans: 35% or 70%. The 70% plan has list-price requirements by marketplace and subtracts a delivery cost based on file size. Review the current rules before you price. eBook royalty options |
| Print (paperback, hardcover) | Royalties depend on list price and marketplace. Check costs, then choose a price that fits your genre and margin goals. |
KDP Select: yes or no
Enrolling your eBook in KDP Select places it in Kindle Unlimited, unlocks Free Promotions and Kindle Countdown Deals, and pays by pages read. Consider reader habits in your genre before you decide.
5) Launch and keep momentum
- Set up Author Central and keep it current across markets.
- Plan a light promo stack: newsletter mention, KDP Free days or a Countdown Deal, and a small test in Amazon Ads if budget allows. See KDP promotion options.
- Ask for honest reviews from your platform. Never offer incentives that violate guidelines.
- Ship the next book. Series entries can boost readthrough and KU page reads.
Helpful internal resources
- Self-publishing with WriteLight Group
- How to self-publish on Amazon in 2025
- KDP royalties explained
- Contact WriteLight Group
FAQs
Do I need to disclose AI-generated content on KDP?
Yes. If any text, images, or translations are AI-generated, disclose that during setup. AI-assisted work does not require disclosure. See KDP Content Guidelines.
How many categories can I pick?
You can select up to three categories per book. Choose the most accurate options for your audience and marketplace.
How many keywords can I enter?
Up to seven keywords or short phrases. Use reader terms, not internal jargon, and avoid repeating your title or category words. See keyword guidance.
What price earns 70% eBook royalties?
The 70% plan has list-price requirements by marketplace and deducts a delivery cost based on file size. Check eBook royalty options before you price.
Wrap up
Publish with confidence. Follow the rules, tune your metadata, polish your page, price smart, and plan a steady launch. Ready for expert help? Contact WriteLight Group to set up your Amazon release.
Last updated: October 2, 2025
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