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KDP tools for authors

A KDP tool path for authors who already finished the manuscript.

Start with the current block: page planning, formatting, cover geometry, validation, metadata, or a failed upload. Each free result points to the next dependency.

Free task-specific checksOne approved source versionRepair only when needed

Use the author path that matches the current stage

Before formatting, estimate pages and select a trim size. After the text is stable, inspect DOCX structure and preview the layout. Once pagination is final, calculate the full-wrap cover. Validate the EPUB, print PDF, images, and metadata only after the last export.

KDP author journey from free tool to paid boundary
StageFree actionPay only when
PlanWords-to-pages, book sizes, launch timelineNo payment; adjust the plan first
PrepareDOCX structure, template, three-page previewYou need a finished replacement interior
CoverSpine and full-wrap calculatorThe existing wrap needs human correction
ValidateEPUB, PDF, image DPI, and metadata checksYou need explanation, repair, revalidation, and delivery
RecoverKDP error decoder and upload error guideThe actual source must be repaired

When a free official route is enough

Kindle Create wins for a supported KDP-first title when you are comfortable installing the official free tool and its export passes. Reedsy Studio wins for free browser drafting and basic formatting. EPUBCheck wins for technical users who can repair every standard error themselves.

ShipMyBook wins a narrower moment: the source is finished, the upload deadline is real, and you want the checks, approved version, and replacement deliverables connected without learning another full editor.

Next release checks

Free book publishing tools

Free book publishing tools for the work between final draft and upload.

Choose the smallest check that answers the release question in front of you. Your recommendation may stay free, lead to paid repair, or point to another product that fits better.Open check

Free KDP cover size calculator

Recalculate the full wrap when KDP flags your cover size.

A cover that looked fine in the preview can still be sized from the wrong page count. Rebuild the spine, bleed, and wrap from your final page count, trim, and paper type before you place cover art.Open check

Free DOCX preflight

KDP book formatter preflight for your Word manuscript.

Open the DOCX you intend to publish. Find hidden comments, tracked changes, missing heading structure, and suspiciously short content without uploading the manuscript.Open check

Publish on KDP for free

How to publish on Amazon KDP for free, step by step.

KDP charges no upload fee — the costs hide in formatting, covers, and rejected uploads. This guide walks the free path and where the paid boundary actually is.Open check

Where to publish this book

Pick language and format. See which stores actually fit.

KDP is not a world passport. Korean, Russian, and Simplified Chinese bounce. Select locks other ebook stores. This map uses one rules table, not forty cloned pages.Open check

FAQ

Frequently asked questions

Is ShipMyBook affiliated with Amazon KDP?

No. ShipMyBook is independent publishing software. Official KDP requirements and the live upload interface remain authoritative.

Should a first-time author pay before trying free tools?

Usually no. Use the free planning and validation steps first. Pay when a specific finished source requires repair or a reviewed delivery package.

What if I publish many books?

A repeat author may value five or twenty private versioned workspaces. Atticus or Vellum can still be the better investment when you want to control formatting yourself across unlimited books.

Start at the failed step, not at checkout.

Browse the full tool directory and choose one concrete publishing job.

Browse free publishing tools