If you are a self-published author working on guides, how-to books, and informational texts and your manuscript is currently in DOCX format, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know about converting it to a professional KDP Print PDF at the 6" x 9" (152 x 229 mm) trim size.
Why 6" x 9" for Non-Fiction?
The 6" x 9" trim size is a popular choice for guides, how-to books, and informational texts. It provides a comfortable reading experience while keeping printing costs manageable. At this size, a typical 60,000-word non-fiction manuscript will run to a page count that depends on your chosen font, size and line spacing.
Converting DOCX to KDP Print PDF
Your DOCX file from Microsoft Word documents needs to be converted to a format that Amazon KDP paperback interior PDF can accept.
Key Requirements for KDP Print PDF
Amazon KDP requires a print-ready PDF with all fonts embedded, and specific margin requirements that vary based on your final page count.
Margin Requirements at 6" x 9"
For a 6" x 9" book, the minimum margins are:
| Margin | Minimum | Recommended |
|---|---|---|
| Top | 0.25" (6.4 mm) | 0.5" (12.7 mm) |
| Bottom | 0.25" (6.4 mm) | 0.5" (12.7 mm) |
| Outside | 0.25" (6.4 mm) | 0.5" (12.7 mm) |
| Gutter (inside) | Varies by page count | See KDP gutter table |
Common Formatting Challenges for Non-Fiction
Non-fiction books often include tables, numbered lists, footnotes or endnotes, and cross-references. These elements require careful formatting to ensure they survive the conversion process intact.
The Automated Alternative
Manually converting a DOCX file to a KDP Print PDF-ready format at 6" x 9" can take hours of trial and error. At publishing.co.uk, our automated formatting engine handles the entire process within 24 hours.
Simply upload your DOCX file, select 6x9 as your trim size, and receive a professionally formatted KDP Print PDF file that is formatted to meet KDP’s technical requirements.
From £69. Unlimited revisions.