Choosing the right categories for your book on Amazon

On KDP you can choose two categories for your book. Those categories affect where your book appears in the Kindle Store and which bestseller lists it can compete on. Picking the right categories can mean more visibility and a realistic shot at a “#1 in…” badge. Here’s how to choose them.

Why categories matter

Categories determine your book’s place in Amazon’s browse tree. Readers exploring “Kindle Store > Romance > Paranormal” will find you only if you’re in that category. Bestseller rankings are also category-specific: you might rank #50 in “Romance” but #3 in “Romance > Paranormal > Vampires.” A smaller, relevant category can give you a visible rank and social proof.

Use both slots

You get two categories. Use both. Even if your book fits squarely in one genre, find a second that’s accurate—a subcategory, a cross-genre, or an alternative path (e.g. “Fiction > Literary” and “Fiction > Women’s Fiction”). Two categories mean two ways for readers and the algorithm to find you.

Be specific (but accurate)

Narrow categories often have less competition than broad ones. “Kindle Store > Mystery & Thriller > Thriller > Psychological” is more specific than “Kindle Store > Mystery & Thriller.” Only choose a subcategory if your book truly fits. Misleading categories can lead to returns and bad reviews when readers feel the book doesn’t match.

Research your genre

Browse Amazon the way a reader would. See which categories similar books are in. Check the “Product details” or “Best Sellers Rank” section on comp titles to see their categories. Note which subcategories have a manageable number of titles so you’re not buried under thousands of books.

Align with keywords and blurb

Your categories should match the story you tell in your blurb and the keywords you use. If your blurb and keywords say “cozy mystery,” your categories should reflect that. Consistency helps Amazon and readers understand what your book is.

You can change them

Category choices aren’t permanent. If a category isn’t helping or you find a better fit, you can update your KDP listing. It can take a little time for rank and placement to update. Experiment, then stick with what drives discovery and sales.

Choosing the right categories is a small step that can have a big impact on how often your book is seen and how it performs on bestseller lists. Pick two that are accurate, specific, and aligned with how readers search.