How to Self-Publish a Book on Kindle: The Steps in Order

Self-publishing on Kindle is a handful of steps. Doing them in this order saves rework. Amazon changes its screens and rules from time to time, so check Amazon's own help pages as you go.

Step 1: Finish the writing

A book cannot be edited well until it is finished. If a few chapters are missing, finish them first.

Step 2: Edit it

Do the big-picture read first, then a polish, then a proofread. Read the result once more yourself.

Step 3: Make the ebook file

Kindle accepts several formats, including EPUB. Put a title page, a table of contents and clear chapter headings in. Open the file on a real device or a free reader app and page through it.

Step 4: Get a cover

The cover is the first thing a buyer sees. It should be readable at thumbnail size, with the title in large type. Amazon lists its current cover size guidance on its help pages. Check them before you upload.

Step 5: Write the store page

You need a title, optional subtitle, a short description that makes a reader want the first page, a few search phrases, and categories. Describe only what is in the book.

Step 6: Answer the AI question honestly

Amazon asks whether any text, images or translations were AI-generated. See our guide on AI disclosure.

Step 7: Upload and price

Create your account, enter the details, upload the book and cover, and set a price. Amazon reviews each book before it goes on sale, which can take a few days.

Let EditPublishSell do the heavy steps

We edit the book, make the EPUB with a cover, and write your store page and search phrases from your own book.

This guide is general information, not legal advice. Store rules change, so check each store's own help pages.