Publishing low-content books on Amazon KDP — like journals, planners, or notebooks — can be a great way to earn passive income. But while it looks easy, many beginners fall into traps that waste time and lead to disappointing results.
Here are the 12 biggest mistakes people make with KDP low-content books — and how to fix them for long-term success.
1. Not Understanding What “Low-Content” Means
Mistake: Thinking any short book qualifies.
Fix: Low-content books have minimal written material — such as lined pages, prompts, or trackers. Examples include:
- Journals and notebooks
- Planners and calendars
- Coloring or activity books
- Habit trackers or gratitude journals
Know your niche before publishing so your design and keywords fit the audience.
2. Copying Generic Designs
Mistake: Using overused templates or free stock covers.
Fix: Stand out with original designs. Use Canva, Affinity Publisher, or Adobe InDesign to create unique covers and interiors that feel professional. A fresh look builds trust with buyers.
3. Skipping Market Research
Mistake: Creating books based only on personal interest.
Fix: Use tools like Amazon search suggestions, Publisher Rocket, or SelfPublishingTitans to find profitable niches with real demand but less competition.
Look for search terms like “gratitude journal for teens” or “wedding planner for bridesmaids.”
4. Ignoring Keywords and SEO
Mistake: Publishing without optimizing your title or description.
Fix: Keywords are everything on Amazon. Use clear, descriptive titles and subtitles:
Example: “Minimalist Daily Planner for Busy Moms: Organize Your Week and Boost Productivity.”
Add relevant keywords in your backend metadata — avoid stuffing, keep it natural.
5. Using Low-Quality Interiors
Mistake: Uploading poorly formatted or cluttered interiors.
Fix: Keep layouts clean and functional. Make sure margins, line spacing, and fonts are consistent. Buyers quickly reject sloppy pages. Always preview your book in KDP before publishing.
6. Forgetting About Branding
Mistake: Treating every book as a one-off.
Fix: Build a brand series (e.g., “Mindful Living Journals” or “Productivity Press”). Consistent style, logo, and tone help you gain repeat buyers and build authority.
7. Pricing Too Low or Too High
Mistake: Setting random prices without testing.
Fix: Most low-content books sell between $6.99 and $9.99. Start mid-range, then adjust based on performance and reviews. Undercutting competitors often signals low quality.
8. Ignoring Cover Design Principles
Mistake: Designing covers without understanding composition.
Fix: Your cover is your sales pitch. Use readable fonts, balanced spacing, and contrasting colors. Test your design at thumbnail size — that’s how buyers will first see it.
9. Publishing Without a Niche Focus
Mistake: Trying to sell to everyone.
Fix: Focus on one profitable niche and expand gradually. For example:
- From “gratitude journals” → “gratitude journals for kids” → “gratitude journals for teachers.”
Deep niches build loyal audiences.
10. Not Promoting Your Books
Mistake: Relying entirely on Amazon’s algorithm.
Fix: Share your books on Pinterest, TikTok, or Instagram. Create short videos or visuals showing the interior pages. The more visibility you drive, the more Amazon promotes your listings.
11. Ignoring Copyright and Trademark Rules
Mistake: Using copyrighted phrases or images.
Fix: Always check trademarks on TMhunt.com or the USPTO database. Avoid phrases like “Bullet Journal” or “Disney.” Only use licensed fonts and graphics — Amazon can ban accounts for violations.
12. Giving Up Too Early
Mistake: Expecting instant success after one or two uploads.
Fix: KDP is a long game. Most creators need 20–50 books before steady sales appear. Analyze what sells, refine your designs, and scale what works.
Final Thoughts
Publishing KDP low-content books isn’t about luck — it’s about research, design, and patience.
If you treat it like a real business, create quality products, and stay consistent, you can build a reliable stream of passive income over time.
Remember: small creative efforts today can lead to lasting digital assets tomorrow.