KDP Keywords: Examples, Rules, & Fast Planning
Fill seven keyword slots fast, follow the rules, and test phrases with a simple loop. Use the free builder to plan and export your list.
How KDP keywords work in 2025
Keywords help Amazon match your book to shopper queries. You get seven slots. Each slot accepts phrases up to 50 characters. Think in intent groups, not single words, and avoid repetition that wastes space.
Rules and limits you must follow
- No Spam: Do not include competitor names or author names.
- No Duplicates: Do not repeat words already in your Title or Subtitle.
- Formatting: Use lowercase and avoid punctuation (commas/periods) inside the slots.
- Customer Language: Focus on what readers type, not industry jargon.
Keyword research in 10 minutes
- List 3 to 4 audience intents you want to match.
- Use auto-complete and "People Also Ask" for phrasing.
- Pull phrasing from top converting pages in your subgenre.
- Group ideas into outcome-based phrases.
- Score phrases by fit and specificity.
Examples by Genre
-
Romance:
small town second chance romance -
Fantasy:
dark fae enemies to lovers -
Nonfiction:
productivity for professional authors
Common Mistakes
- Repeating title words across slots.
- Using jargon like "best seller" or "free."
- Ignoring the subgenre’s core trope.
- Stuffing 20 random words into one slot.
Strategic FAQs
How long should each slot be?
Use concise phrases that cover one intent. While you have 50 characters, focus on a single cohesive thought per slot rather than a "word salad."
Do I repeat words across slots?
No. Amazon's engine combines words from all slots. Repeating "romance" in three different slots wastes valuable space you could use for tropes.
How often do I change keywords?
Test in two-week cycles. Change one or two slots at a time, record your rank, and see if impressions increase in your AMS dashboard.