If you're an aspiring author, one of the biggest hurdles you'll face is figuring out how to publish your book. In the digital age, self-publishing platforms like CreateSpace (now merged with Kindle Direct Publishing, KDP) have made it possible for writers to take control of the publishing process and bring their work directly to readers. In this blog post, we’ll explore how you can publish your book with CreateSpace, now part of Amazon’s KDP, and offer insights into the process that will help you achieve success as a self-published author.


What is CreateSpace?

CreateSpace was a self-publishing platform that allowed authors to publish print-on-demand books. It was acquired by Amazon and later merged into Amazon’s Kindle Direct Publishing (KDP) service in 2018. Now, KDP offers both eBook and print-on-demand services under one platform. This means you can publish both paperback and eBook versions of your book on Amazon, making it accessible to millions of potential readers.

The platform allows authors to bypass traditional publishing houses, giving them control over every aspect of the publishing process—from the design of the book cover to marketing and distribution.


Why Choose KDP (formerly CreateSpace)?

Here are a few reasons why KDP is an excellent choice for self-publishing:

  1. No upfront cost: With KDP, you only pay when your book is sold. You don’t have to spend money on bulk orders of printed copies.
  2. Wide reach: Your book is listed on Amazon, which has millions of daily users, increasing your chances of reaching a global audience.
  3. Print-on-demand: You don't need to worry about storing inventory or shipping orders. Amazon prints and ships the book whenever someone buys a copy.
  4. Flexibility: You maintain full control over your book, including rights, pricing, and royalties.
  5. Royalty options: You can earn up to 70% in royalties on eBooks and 60% on paperbacks, depending on how you price your book.

Now, let’s dive into the step-by-step process of publishing your book using KDP.


Step 1: Prepare Your Manuscript

Before you can publish, you need to have a manuscript ready for upload. Here are a few things to consider:

Editing

Make sure your manuscript is thoroughly edited before you upload it. Self-published books are often criticized for poor editing, so investing in a professional editor can make a big difference in the quality of your work. If you’re on a tight budget, at least try to have a friend or family member read through the manuscript for grammar and spelling errors.

Formatting

Amazon provides specific guidelines on how to format your manuscript for both paperback and eBook publishing. You can format your book using software like Microsoft Word, or if you prefer, you can use Amazon’s free tool called Kindle Create, which simplifies the process.

  • For Paperbacks: Your manuscript needs to be formatted to the dimensions of the print book (e.g., 6” x 9”). Ensure your chapters are clearly defined and that the text is properly aligned.
  • For eBooks: Unlike print, eBooks don’t have fixed pages. Make sure that your text can flow properly across different devices.

It’s also important to include front matter (like a title page, copyright page, and dedication, if applicable) and back matter (such as acknowledgments or a call-to-action for readers to leave reviews).

Step 2: Create an Amazon KDP Account

If you already have an Amazon account, you can use it to log in to Kindle Direct Publishing. If not, create an account specifically for KDP.

Once logged in, you will be directed to your KDP dashboard. From here, you can upload your manuscript, create your book cover, and set your pricing and distribution options.

Navigating the KDP Dashboard

The dashboard is divided into three main sections:

  1. Bookshelf: This is where all of your book projects are listed.
  2. Reports: You can monitor your book sales and earnings.
  3. Community: This provides access to forums and resources to help you succeed as an author.

Step 3: Create a New Paperback or eBook Title

In the KDP dashboard, click the “Create New Title” button. You will then be prompted to select whether you want to create a Kindle eBook, paperback, or hardcover. For this blog, we’ll walk you through the process of both paperback and eBook publishing.

Kindle eBook Setup

  1. Book Title: Enter the title of your book and any subtitle if applicable.
  2. Series: If your book is part of a series, you can input the series name and volume number here.
  3. Author Name: This is the name that will appear on your book’s cover and sales page.
  4. Contributors: List anyone who contributed to the book, such as co-authors, editors, or illustrators.
  5. Description: Write a compelling book description that will appear on your Amazon listing. This is one of the most critical parts of your book’s sales page, as it gives potential readers a glimpse of what your book is about. Make sure to include key themes and hooks that will entice readers.
  6. Keywords: Think of keywords as the search terms potential readers will use to find your book. Choose up to 7 keywords that are relevant to your book’s content.
  7. Categories: Select the categories (up to two) that best fit your book. This helps Amazon place your book in the right section of their store.
  8. Age and Grade Range: If your book is targeted at specific age groups, you can specify that here.
  9. Pre-Order Option: If you want to offer your book for pre-order before the official release, you can do so for Kindle eBooks.

Paperback Setup

  1. Paperback Details: Similar to the Kindle eBook setup, you’ll need to fill out your book’s title, author name, description, and categories.
  2. ISBN: You’ll need an International Standard Book Number (ISBN) to publish a paperback. Amazon provides a free ISBN, or you can purchase your own if you prefer. Keep in mind that the ISBN Amazon provides will list Amazon as the publisher.
  3. Print Options: Choose the size of your book, the paper color (white or cream), and whether you want your book to be printed in black-and-white or color.
  4. Book Cover: You can upload your own cover or use Amazon’s Cover Creator tool, which offers customizable templates. Make sure to follow Amazon’s cover dimensions and guidelines to avoid issues during the approval process.

Step 4: Upload Your Manuscript and Cover

Now it’s time to upload your formatted manuscript and book cover. Amazon accepts manuscripts in Word format (.doc or .docx), PDF, or EPUB for eBooks. For paperbacks, PDF is the preferred format for both the manuscript and cover.

Once you’ve uploaded the files, you can use Amazon’s online preview tool to ensure everything looks correct. This tool allows you to view your book as it will appear to readers on various devices.

Make sure to check for any formatting issues, as these can cause delays in the approval process.

Step 5: Set Your Pricing and Distribution

After your manuscript and cover are uploaded, it’s time to set your book’s pricing and distribution options.

Pricing

KDP allows you to choose between two royalty options for Kindle eBooks:

  1. 35% royalty plan: Available for books priced below $2.99.
  2. 70% royalty plan: Available for books priced between $2.99 and $9.99. Keep in mind that the 70% plan is only available in certain countries, and Amazon charges a small delivery fee based on the file size of your eBook.

For paperbacks, Amazon offers a fixed royalty rate of 60%. This means you’ll earn 60% of the list price minus printing costs. Printing costs vary depending on the page count, color options, and book size.

Distribution

KDP offers two main distribution options:

  1. Amazon.com and Amazon international stores: Your book will be available for purchase on Amazon in multiple countries.
  2. Expanded Distribution: This option allows your book to be distributed through other online retailers, bookstores, and libraries. Keep in mind that selecting this option will reduce your royalties slightly, but it can increase your book’s visibility.

Step 6: Publish and Promote Your Book

Once everything is uploaded and your pricing is set, all that’s left to do is hit the “Publish” button. Amazon typically reviews your book within 24-72 hours. If everything is in order, your book will go live on Amazon’s store, and you’ll receive an email confirmation.

Marketing and Promotion

Publishing your book is only the beginning. The next step is to market your book to ensure it reaches as many readers as possible.

Here are some effective marketing strategies:

  1. Leverage Social Media: Promote your book on platforms like Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. Engage with your audience, share behind-the-scenes content, and build anticipation.
  2. Author Website and Blog: Create a dedicated author website or blog to promote your book, offer updates, and engage with your readers.
  3. Amazon Ads: KDP offers a paid advertising service where you can create targeted ads to promote your book on Amazon.
  4. Email Lists: Build an email list of subscribers interested in your writing. This way, you can notify them of new releases, sales, or special promotions.
  5. Book Reviews: Encourage readers to leave reviews on Amazon. The more positive reviews you have, the higher your book will rank in Amazon’s search algorithm.

Step 7: Track Your Sales and Adjust Your Strategy

After your book is published, regularly check your KDP dashboard to monitor sales and earnings. You can use this data to inform your marketing strategy. For instance, if sales are slow, you may want to adjust your book’s price or invest in more advertising.

The world of self-publishing is competitive, so be prepared to continually market your book to keep it in front of potential readers.