You can add up to seven keywords or short phrases that are relevant to your book. Be sure to use all seven in order to improve the chances of your book appearing in searches. Keywords can be changed at a later date, even after publication. 

A screenshot from the KDP publishing process. The heading is 'Keywords' and there are seven empty boxes.

Creating effective keywords

  • Think like a reader. Consider how a reader may search for a book like yours. 
  • Use phrases or strings of keywords rather than single words (eg ‘cozy mystery with cats’ instead of just ‘mystery’).
  • Research on Amazon. Try searches using potential keywords and take note of the suggestions that appear in the search box.
  • Incorporate elements such as setting, characters, plot themes and story tones. 
  • Avoid repeating words already in your title or categories. This is a waste of a keyword!

More information about keywords can be found here: https://kdp.amazon.com/en_US/help/topic/G201298500

Continue to the next lesson to learn about pre-orders (for e-books). Alternatively, head to Publication Date and Release Date for paperback and hardback.


Sources:

Keywords for Visibility, Elizabeth S. Craig
Tips for Amazon Keywords, Terry Odell