When you create a paperback book on KDP, you need to format and upload two files: a manuscript file, which is the interior of your book including front matter, body matter, and back matter, and a cover file, which is the outside of your book including the front, back, and spine. Here we provide steps on how to format both files, plus tools and resources to help you get started.

Format your interior manuscript file

Format your interior file by following the steps below:

SET TRIM SIZE AND MARGINS Set the size of your book and margins. If you have visual elements that reach the edge of the page, set up your interior file with bleed.

CREATE FRONT, BODY, AND BACK MATTER Create your front, body, and back matter elements such as title pages, copyright page, chapter headings, and author bio.

SAVE MANUSCRIPT FOR UPLOAD Save your interior file the right way to avoid errors. Once saved, upload and preview your file.

Alternatively, use Kindle Create to turn your completed manuscript into a beautiful book. We recommend Kindle Create for text-heavy books with simple layouts.
Note: Kindle Create isn’t supported for paperbacks with tables, footnotes, or images that bleed.

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Format your cover file

Choose one of three ways to create your paperback cover:

USE OUR FREE TOOL Create a cover that meets KDP specifications with our Cover Creator tool.

DOWNLOAD A COVER TEMPLATE Create a print-ready paperback cover with any software that will open a .png or PDF file and save a PDF file using our cover templates.

CREATE YOUR OWN COVER Use our cover guide with detailed specifications to create your own cover. Our calculator can help with your book dimensions.

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Check out our Paperback Formatting Essentials and Creative Cover Solutions webinars: