Word to KDP PDF Export Guide
What It Means
The safest way to export a Microsoft Word manuscript for Amazon KDP is to configure the correct page size and margins in Word first, then export using Save As → PDF without scaling.
Incorrect export settings are one of the most common causes of layout problems during KDP upload.
Why It Matters
Word can produce acceptable print PDFs, but only if trim size, mirrored margins, and export behavior are controlled. If those values drift, KDP may flag the file for geometry or layout problems even when the manuscript appears correct in Word.
Step 1 — Set the Correct Trim Size
Before exporting, configure the page size to match the final trim size.
Example:
| Trim Size | Word Page Size |
|---|---|
| 5 × 8 | 5 × 8 |
| 5.5 × 8.5 | 5.5 × 8.5 |
| 6 × 9 | 6 × 9 |
You can verify trim dimensions using:
Step 2 — Configure Margins
Typical paperback margin setup:
| Margin | Value |
|---|---|
| Inside | 0.75 in |
| Outside | 0.5 in |
| Top | 0.75 in |
| Bottom | 0.75 in |
Enable Mirror Margins so the inside margin alternates between pages.
To validate margins after export:
Step 3 — Export the PDF
Recommended workflow: File → Save As → PDF
Avoid: Print → Print to PDF
because print drivers may change page scaling.
Step 4 — Verify the PDF Before Upload
Check the exported file for:
- correct page size
- margin safety
- embedded fonts
- image resolution
Useful validation tools:
Common Problems
Typical issues include:
- margins too small
- Word scaling during export
- incorrect trim size
- page count not divisible by two
PDF Scaling Cluster
Word export mistakes often show up later as one of these KDP-facing symptoms:
- KDP PDF scaled down
- KDP font size too small
- KDP preview shows different layout
- KDP text too close to trim edge
- KDP book printed smaller than PDF
- KDP Preview Scaling Detected
- KDP Trim Size Mismatch
Related problems:
Example
Assume a manuscript is fully formatted in Word at 6 x 9 in with mirrored margins. Exporting with Save As → PDF preserves the page geometry, while exporting through a print driver may introduce scaling and create trim-size or margin errors during KDP upload.
Common Mistakes
- Setting trim size in Word after the layout is already finished.
- Forgetting to enable mirrored margins.
- Using print-to-PDF instead of save-to-PDF export.
- Uploading the PDF without checking it directly.
Tools
FAQ
Is Word export acceptable for KDP paperbacks?
Yes, if trim size, margins, and PDF export settings are controlled carefully.
Why is Save As → PDF safer than Print → Print to PDF?
Because print drivers may apply scaling or other output changes.
Should I verify the exported PDF before upload?
Yes. The exported PDF is the actual submission file and should be checked directly.
Related Guides
- Amazon KDP Formatting Guide
- PDF Export Settings That Break Print
- KDP Paperback Formatting Checklist
- Book Trim Size Guide
- Book Margin Guide