If you have not formatted your manuscript yet, see Section 2: Gather Your Resources for guidance.
Ensure your manuscript is saved as an acceptable file format before uploading:
| E-book file formats | Paperback / Hardback file formats |
| – Microsoft Word (DOC/DOCX) – Kindle Package (KPF) [Created using Kindle Create] – EPUB – HTML (ZIP, HTM, or HTML) – Rich Text Format (RTF) – Plain Text (TXT) – Adobe PDF (PDF) | – With bleed: PDF – No bleed: PDF, DOC, DOCX, RTF, HTML, or TXT file. [KDP will automatically convert these file types to PDF prior to publishing/printing]. |
Digital Rights Management
When uploading an e-book manuscript, you have the option to enable Digital Rights Management (DRM) by selecting the appropriate checkbox. Your choice cannot be changed after publication.
In terms of self-publishing, Digital Right Management is a method of controlling how e-books can be shared between devices and users. Its goal is to prevent unauthorized sharing and modification of e-books. If you choose to apply DRM, the e-book will be encrypted and access will be limited to people who purchase your book.
Whether or not to apply DRM is a personal choice, and opinions are split across self-publishers. Here is an overview of some of the main advantages and disadvantages of DRM:
Advantages of DRM
– You may prevent unauthorized sharing of your e-book, and therefore may protect your income stream.
– It is more difficult for someone else to copy, edit, or modify your work.
Disadvantages of DRM
-DRM is easily broken using DRM removal tools.
– Readers can only use one device to read the book, which can be an inconvenience to them. Some readers like to read the same book over a variety of devices.
– While limiting the sharing of you e-book may be beneficial, for many emerging authors, the lack of ability to share the book leads to less people reading their work, which can have a negative affect on future sales. Some authors choose to maximize visibility of their books, in the hops that it will lead to more sales.
– DRM settings vary by platform (Amazon, Apple Book, Kobo, etc) due to a lack of standardization. The lack of uniformity means DRM does not offer comprehensive protection.
Consider both your values and goals when making a decision about enabling DRM.
Continue on to the next lesson to learn about uploading your book’s cover.
Sources:
The Pros and Cons of DRM: Digital Rights Management Explained, by Aaxel Author Group
Digital Rights Management for Self-Published Authors: Protection, Pitfalls, and the Path Forward, by Randall Wood