Author Guidance

Self-publishing guides, in plain English

Free guides for independent authors, checked against Amazon KDP, IngramSpark and Bowker's own requirements. No jargon, no sales pitch — just what you need to know before you spend anything.

• How to Fix Common Amazon KDP Upload ErrorsFix the 8 most common KDP paperback errors: page size, margins, fonts, images, cover width and spine text, using Amazon's own requirements.
• How Much Does It Cost to Self-Publish a Book?Self-publishing costs $0 to upload but $2,940–$5,660 to produce well. See typical prices for editing, covers, formatting and ISBNs.
• ISBNs for Self-Published Books: Do You Need One?Do you need an ISBN for KDP? Compare free ISBNs from Amazon and IngramSpark with buying your own from Bowker, and which to choose.
• Amazon KDP vs IngramSpark: Which Should You Use?Compare Amazon KDP and IngramSpark on royalties, fees, bookstore reach and ISBNs, including IngramSpark's 2026 fee changes.
• How to Spot a Vanity Press Before You SignLearn the 10 red flags of a vanity press, the questions to ask before paying, and how to check any publishing company.
• Types of Book Editing: Which One Does Your Book Need?Developmental, line, copy or proofreading? Learn what each type of book editing does, what it costs in 2026, how long it takes, and which your book needs.