KDP Paperback Formatting Checklist
What It Means
A formatting checklist is a final control document used to confirm that both the interior and cover files match KDP print requirements before upload. It reduces the chance of missing one technical detail during a multi-step publishing workflow.
Why It Matters
Many KDP upload failures come from simple omissions: wrong trim size, missing embedded fonts, incorrect spine width, or unverified bleed. A checklist makes those checks repeatable and easier to audit before submission.
Interior File Checklist
Verify the manuscript PDF:
- trim size matches book settings
- margins follow KDP requirements
- fonts are embedded
- images are at least 300 DPI
Cover File Checklist
Verify the cover:
- correct spine width
- bleed included
- barcode area preserved
Upload Validation
Before submission:
- run a full preflight check
- verify page count
- preview the book
Example
Assume an author finalizes a 6 x 9 in paperback and exports both the interior PDF and the cover PDF. Running a checklist before upload confirms trim size, margins, bleed, embedded fonts, image quality, and spine width, reducing the chance of a preview error.
Common Mistakes
- Checking only the interior and skipping the cover.
- Using a checklist before page count is final.
- Forgetting to verify margins after last-minute edits.
- Uploading files without rechecking exported PDFs.
Tools
- Trim Size Checker
- PDF Margin Checker
- PDF DPI Checker
- Spine Width Calculator
- Cover Dimensions Calculator
- Pre-Upload Checklist
Related Errors
FAQ
Should the checklist include both interior and cover files?
Yes. Both files should be validated together before upload.
When should I run the formatting checklist?
After final export and before submission to KDP.
Is preview enough without a checklist?
No. Preview is important, but a checklist helps catch issues earlier.