In this detailed tutorial, you will learn how to start your Amazon Kindle Direct Publishing (KDP) journey in 2026. This guide covers everything from signing up for Amazon KDP to creating your first book, focusing on puzzle books such as Sudoku, and uploading it to Amazon for sale.
About the Instructor
The instructor has over 10 years of experience in online business and has been involved with Amazon KDP since 2018, generating several millions in profit. The goal is to provide free, course-level tutorials with real on-screen demonstrations, including titles, descriptions, and pricing strategies.
Getting Started with Amazon KDP
Signing Up
- Go to Google and search for "Amazon KDP" and ensure you click the official Amazon KDP link to avoid scams.
- Amazon KDP is free to join with no monthly fees.
- You can sign up from anywhere in the world and sell to all Amazon marketplaces.
- There is no application process; everyone is accepted immediately.
What is Amazon KDP?
Amazon KDP is a platform that allows you to upload your book content, create a virtual listing on Amazon, and Amazon handles printing, shipping, and customer service.
Misconceptions
- You do not need to be an established author or write novels.
- Functional books like password log books or puzzle books are popular and sell well.
Best Types of Books to Create in 2026
The instructor focuses on four main categories:
- Word Search Books
- Crossword Puzzles
- Sudoku Puzzles (easiest and highly recommended for 2026)
- Activity Books (combination of puzzles)
This tutorial focuses on Sudoku puzzles due to ease of creation and market potential.
Researching Your Niche
Why Themed Books?
- Most Sudoku books on Amazon are generic.
- Buyers search for themed versions (e.g., Christmas Sudoku, Anxiety Sudoku).
- Many niches are underserved, allowing organic ranking without paid ads or reviews.
Using Bookbolt for Research
- Bookbolt is a tool for keyword research and book creation.
- It offers a 3-day free trial.
- Pricing plans: Newbie ($11.99/month) and Pro ($23.99/month).
- Pro plan is required for creating puzzles.
How to Use Bookbolt for Keyword Research
- Use the Keyword Search feature and type "Sudoku".
- Check Amazon keywords and competition scores.
- Look for niches with an A-rated competition score and good monthly search volume.
- Ignore low estimated sales if competition score is A-rated.
Example Niches for Sudoku Books
- Christmas Sudoku
- Halloween Sudoku
- Sudoku for kids (e.g., 6 years old)
A list of niches is provided in the tutorial for reference.
Creating Your Sudoku Book
Using Bookbolt Studio
- Create a new project with paperback cover and interior.
- Recommended trim size: 6x9 inches.
- Set interior to black and white with white paper.
- Set page count to 110 pages.
Adding Sudoku Puzzles
- Use the puzzle icon to add Sudoku puzzle templates.
- Select pages for puzzles and solutions (first half puzzles, second half solutions).
- Submit to generate puzzles automatically.
Creating the Cover
- Use shapes to create a colored background.
- Add textures from Pixabay or Unsplash for a professional look.
- Add text for the book title, subtitle, and back cover.
- Customize fonts and colors.
Adding Graphics
- Use Playit.net for professional, copyright-free graphics.
- Search for relevant icons (e.g., relaxing, plants).
- Download graphics with transparent backgrounds.
- Upload graphics to Bookbolt and place them on the cover.
Special Text Effects
- Use Playit.net to create decorative letters (e.g., floral letters) for titles.
Adding Quotes (Optional)
- Add calming or themed quotes on each puzzle page to enhance user experience.
- Use ChatGPT to generate quotes related to your book's theme.
- Add multi-line text boxes for quotes in Bookbolt.
Downloading and Preparing Files for Upload
- Download the project as a CMYK printed book.
- Unzip the downloaded folder to access the paperback cover and interior files.
Uploading Your Book to Amazon KDP
Steps
- Log in to your Amazon KDP dashboard.
- Click "Create New Title" and select "Paperback."
- Fill in book details:
- Language: English (or your target language)
- Book Title: Use a clear title matching your cover (e.g., "ADHD Sudoku Puzzle Book")
- Subtitle: Include details like theme, size, page count, and number of puzzles.
- Author Name: Use your name or a pen name.
- Description: Use ChatGPT to create a compelling product description with relevant keywords.
Categories
- Choose relevant categories such as Humor & Entertainment > Puzzles & Games > Sudoku.
Keywords
- Add keywords related to your book (e.g., ADHD sudoku puzzle book, ADHD gift ideas).
- Use Amazon search suggestions to find additional keywords.
ISBN
- Assign a free ISBN provided by Amazon.
Print Options
- Interior: Black and white with white paper.
- Trim size: 6x9 inches.
- Bleed: On.
- Cover finish: Matte or glossy (personal preference).
Upload Files
- Upload the interior manuscript and cover files.
- Wait for green check marks confirming successful uploads.
AI Disclosure
- Indicate whether AI was used to create the book (answer "No" if not).
Preview and Approve
- Use the Launch Previewer to check formatting and barcode placement.
- Approve the book if everything looks correct.
Pricing
- Set your price starting at $7.99 or $8.99.
- Amazon pays 50% royalty minus printing costs.
- After sales pick up, increase price to $9.99 to earn 60% royalty.
- Enable expanded distribution for additional sales.
- Round prices to .99 for better conversion.
Scaling Your Amazon KDP Business
- Clone your project in Bookbolt to create new books quickly.
- Clear puzzle pages and generate new puzzles for each cloned book.
- Use different themes and niches discovered during research.
Final Tips
- Use the free trials and coupon codes provided for Bookbolt and Playit.net.
- Focus on underserved niches to rank organically.
- Avoid paid ads and rely on niche targeting.
- Use pen names if you want anonymity.
- Always check Amazon's feedback and resubmit if necessary.
This tutorial provides a comprehensive roadmap to start and grow your Amazon KDP business in 2026, focusing on puzzle books. By following these steps, you can create unique, themed books that stand out and generate passive income on Amazon.
If you have any questions, feel free to ask in the comments section of the original video or tutorial source.
