Paperback writer
 

Whether it's a romance novel or a non-fiction text book, you can use Amazon's KDP printing service to publish your next paperback - in a matter of weeks.

Before the internet and KDP - and at the time 'Paperback Writer' by The Beatles was a hit single - it would take several months to take a book to print.
 

From e-book to paperback
 

Preparing to self-publish in paperback is the same, to start with, as for your e-book. Check out key guidelines here...
 

You can use the same software and even the same original files created for your e-book, adjusting the formatting for your paperback version.
 

What needs to change?

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You may wish to alter the margin sizes and increase the typeface for a more easy-to-read paperback version. Justified alignment of text looks more professional, in paperback as well as e-book.

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Print material options

Paperbacks are 'tactile' - not digital - they need to 'feel' pleasant to pick up and handle.

 
Depending on your own preferences, and those of your genre, you may decide on white or cream paper going to print, or a thicker material for a more quality look and feel.

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Judge a book by its cover

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The thickness of your cover may add to its 'perceived value'. You may prefer a gloss finish, or the quality, silky feel of a matte cover.

The cover design can either sell a book, or put people off. Choose (illustration) wisely, getting feedback from friends, family - and impartial opinion - before going to print.

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Quality image (file size)

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Ideally, use the same cover and image as you have for your e-book. However, it needs to be at least 300 dpi for print, otherwise KDP will reject it (as would any other printer).

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Textual considerations

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A sub-title can add nice touch - especially if it is part of a series.

Remember to include a list of other books you have published and write a well thought out biography for yourself.

Write a 'sales', but not misleading, description of the contents - if non-fiction, or outline - if a story.

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Book title

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Make this unique to your book where you can. No single author owns the copyright to a title - which is why you see many books sharing the same title. (However, you might be pulled up if you entitled your own masterpiece "The Catcher In The Rye'!)

Flick through books of a similar genre or subject to your own, noting the 'style' of the bestsellers - for ideas.

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Book length (words or number of pages)

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Conduct research for your genre or subject matter. It may vary. You need to fit in with the norm. e.g. a historical saga spanning centuries may need to contain more pages than, say, a witty romantic romp. 

(Whilst the latter can extend to 400 pages or more, conversely, it may be inappropriate for the former to be cut short at 50,100 words.)

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Pricing

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Again, you need to 'fit in' with the competition - especially if this is your first book. 
Once you become established you may find your 'unique selling proposition' (USP) enables you to demand a premium price.

However, be aware that even books by the likes of Jeffry Archer may be out there at discounted prices.

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International markets

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Paperbacks through KDP, as well as e-books, can be made available in overseas countries. If you extend your reach, conduct adequate research as it may require a different promotional approach and pricing.

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Edits, updates, new editions

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This is covered on the e-books section. The factor regarding not needing to publish any quantity up front is especially relevant for non-fiction, where you may need to release an update say, annually. (e.g. a travel book)

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Lead time on delivery

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Partly because KDP need to review and accept your uploaded manuscript, the first order could take a week or two. Thereafter, deliveries to those ordering on Amazon should be just a matter of days.

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Author copies

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You can buy sample copies at cost, plus a modest delivery - as well as send them to friends, family and reviewers. 

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Advertising, Marketing and Promotion

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This is the same as for e-books, in principle. Author copies are great for book-signing promotions. Look out for free opportunities on Author Central and Bookbub.