How to Self-Publish on Amazon’s KDP
If you've ever typed "how to self-publish on Amazon" into a search engine, you’ve probably been hit with a wall of conflicting advice, expensive software recommendations, and long checklists that make the whole thing feel impossible. But here’s the truth - self-publishing doesn’t have to be overwhelming, and you don’t need every bell and whistle to do it well.
Let’s bust a few myths and walk you through what really matters.
You Don’t Need Fancy Software or Expensive Packages
You don’t need to subscribe to multiple formatting tools, hire an entire team of marketers, or pay thousands for packages promising “guaranteed bestsellers.” Amazon’s Kindle Direct Publishing (KDP) platform is designed to be accessible. What you do need is a clean, well-formatted manuscript and a cover that looks professional. The rest? It’s optional - not essential.
You Do Need These Three Things
First, a properly edited manuscript. Whether you self-edit or hire a professional, your writing should be clear, error-free and easy to read.
Second, an eye-catching, genre-appropriate cover. People really do judge books by them.
And third, accurate metadata - that means your book description, categories, and keywords that help readers find your book in the first place.
You Don’t Need to Figure It All Out Alone
Yes, you can learn everything yourself, but that doesn’t mean you have to. A little guidance goes a long way. If you’re stuck on where to begin, we offer a KDP Setup Service that helps you get your book uploaded and ready to sell - without the stress. We’ll walk you through your Amazon account setup, show you where to upload your files, and support you with keyword and category choices that help your book get seen.
You Do Need to Understand the Basics
Publishing a book is different from just uploading a document. You'll want to double-check your formatting, choose the right pricing, preview your book before launch, and decide whether you want print, ebook, or both. These choices affect your royalties, visibility and reader experience. Getting a helping hand at this stage can save you hours of troubleshooting.
Bottom Line
Self-publishing on Amazon can be as simple or complex as you make it. The key is knowing what’s truly essential and ignoring the noise. Focus on getting the book right, presenting it well, and understanding the platform enough to make smart decisions.
At Turtle Tree Press, we’re here to support independent authors with calm, practical services that meet you where you are. No fluff. No upsell. Just honest help so you can publish with confidence.
Ready to take the next step? Check out our KDP Setup Service and let’s get your book out into the world.