KDP Glossary

Definition-first references for terms you will see in KDP workflows.

• Bleed

  Bleed is extra artwork that extends past the trim edge so printed pages do not show white borders.

• Trim Size

  Trim size is the final physical width and height of a printed book after production.

• Gutter

  Gutter is the inner margin near the spine used to keep text readable after binding.

• Reflowable Layout

  Reflowable layout means eBook text adapts to reader font settings and screen sizes.

• DPI

  DPI means dots per inch and describes print image resolution quality for KDP interiors and covers.

• ISBN

  ISBN is a unique International Standard Book Number that identifies a specific book edition.

• KDP Select

  KDP Select is an optional enrollment program that makes your eBook exclusive to Amazon in exchange for promotional tools.

• Paperback

  Paperback is a softcover print format produced through KDP Print on demand.

• Margin

  Margin is the blank space between page content and the trim edge of a printed page.

• Spine

  Spine is the bound edge of a book where pages are glued or stitched together.

• Cover

  Cover is the outer artwork and layout that wraps the front, spine, and back of a print book or displays as the eBook thumbnail.

• Metadata

  Metadata is the descriptive information about a book, including title, subtitle, author, description, and categories.

• BISAC

  BISAC is a standardized book industry category code used to classify titles by subject.

• Kindle Unlimited

  Kindle Unlimited is Amazon's subscription reading program where enrolled KDP Select eBooks earn page-read royalties.

• Print on Demand

  Print on demand means books are manufactured only when a customer places an order, with no upfront inventory.

• Hardcover

  Hardcover is a case-laminate or jacketed print format with a rigid cover, available through KDP Print in select markets.

• Front Matter

  Front matter is the preliminary content before the main body, such as title page, copyright, and dedication.