KDP Keywords. Examples, Rules, and a Fast Planning Method
KDP Keywords • 2025 Edition

KDP Keywords. Examples, Rules, and a Fast Planning Method

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. Think in intent groups, not single words, and avoid repetition that wastes space.

Rules and limits you must follow

  • No spam or competitor names. Keep phrases relevant.
  • Do not repeat title or subtitle text.
  • Use lowercase and avoid punctuation that over-segments phrases.
  • Focus on shopper language, not publisher jargon.

See the full summary in KDP Keyword Rules.

Keyword research in 10 minutes

  1. List 3 to 4 audience intents you want to match.
  2. Use auto-complete and People Also Ask for phrasing.
  3. Pull phrasing from top converting pages in your subgenre.
  4. Group ideas into outcome based phrases.
  5. Score phrases by fit and specificity.

Use the builder to plan, score, and export your seven slots.

Open the 7-Keyword Builder Polish your description next

Build seven slots with coverage and variety

Cover your main subgenre, your core trope or topic, and one or two long tail phrases with high intent. Avoid duplicates across slots.

See examples by genre

Test and iterate

  1. Track impressions and conversion on ads or organic for two weeks.
  2. Swap one low performing slot at a time.
  3. Re-test and record what changed.

Examples by genre

  • Romance. small town second chance romance
  • Fantasy. dark fae enemies to lovers
  • Mystery. police procedural cold case
  • Nonfiction. productivity for authors

Full lists live here. KDP Keywords Examples by Genre.

Common mistakes

  • Repeating title words across slots.
  • Using publisher jargon instead of shopper phrasing.
  • Ignoring the subgenre’s core trope or topic.

FAQs

How long should each slot be

Use concise phrases that cover one intent. Do not stuff variants into a single slot.

Do I repeat words across slots

No. Repetition wastes space. Aim for coverage with minimal overlap.

Can I use competitor names

No. Avoid brand names and author names.

Should I include misspellings

Skip obvious typos. Focus on clear phrases that map to shopper intent.

How often do I change keywords

Test changes in two-week cycles. Swap one slot at a time and record results.