How to Format an eBook for Kindle: A Review Checklist (2026)
Use consistent manuscript structure, preview the actual upload, and confirm current file and cover requirements in KDP before submitting.
Start with a clean manuscript
Use consistent heading styles for chapters and subheads, remove accidental spacing and blank pages, and add front and back matter deliberately. A structured source file is easier to update than one formatted with repeated manual spaces.
Preview the actual upload
- Use the current file types and cover specifications shown in KDP help.
- Open the book in KDP's preview tools and check several screen sizes.
- Check the table of contents, chapter starts, images, links, and special characters.
- Review the store page and metadata before submitting.
Verify current requirements
Store requirements change and can vary by content type. This general checklist is not a substitute for the current KDP documentation or a preview of your own file.
Put it into practice.
Turn your outline into an editable eBook draft, then review and refine it before publishing.