TL;DR: Step-by-step guide to formatting guides, how-to books, and informational texts from existing PDF files to Amazon Kindle eBook EPUB at 6x9 trim size.
Last reviewed by Robert Prime — May 2026
If you are a self-published author working on guides, how-to books, and informational texts and your manuscript is currently in PDF format, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know about converting it to a professional Kindle EPUB at the 6" x 9" (152 x 229 mm) trim size.
We see this come through our formatting queue at publishing.co.uk regularly, so the patterns and fixes here are based on what actually works at upload.
Why 6" x 9" for Non-Fiction?
The 6" x 9" trim size is the industry standard 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 produce approximately 250-280 pages.
Converting PDF to Kindle EPUB
Your PDF file from existing PDF files needs to be converted to a format that Amazon Kindle eBook EPUB can accept.
Key Requirements for Kindle EPUB
Kindle requires a reflowable EPUB file with a properly coded NCX navigation table, a hyperlinked HTML Table of Contents, and optimised images at 72 DPI.
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 PDF file to a Kindle EPUB-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 PDF file, select 6x9 as your trim size, and receive a professionally formatted Kindle EPUB file that is guaranteed to pass KDP's automated review.
From £69. Unlimited revisions. Guaranteed acceptance.
Frequently asked questions
Can I do this in Word or do I need specialist software?
Word can produce KDP-acceptable files but takes effort. Tools like Atticus, Vellum, or Reedsy Editor are faster for novels. For complex layouts (cookbooks, picture books) Adobe InDesign is the professional standard.
What's the minimum quality bar for KDP acceptance?
Embed all fonts, 300 DPI for any images, no bleed unless declared, trim size matched between cover and interior, single-page PDF for cover (not separate front/back). KDP accepts about 90% of files that meet these basics.
How long does the formatting process take?
DIY: 10-30 hours first time. Using a tool with templates: 2-6 hours. Paid service: 24-72 hours and no learning curve.
Should I order a proof copy before going live?
Yes — always. Proof copies are £4-£8 each and catch issues monitors don't show: paper bleed-through, spine alignment, cover gloss/matte feel.
About this guide
Written by Robert Prime for publishing.co.uk. Last reviewed May 2026. Specs and pricing change — verify current figures with the linked sources before relying on them.
Related guides
- How To Format An Ebook For Kindle
- How To Format A Book For Kdp
- How To Upload Book To Kdp
- How To Self Publish A Book On Amazon Uk
- How To Outline A Novel
External references
- Amazon's official spec is at KDP's Help Centre.