More authors than ever use AI tools while writing: to brainstorm ideas, polish sentences or check grammar. If you publish on Amazon KDP, it’s important to understand how Amazon treats AI, because it asks you a direct question about it when you publish.

What KDP asks

When you publish a new book, or edit and republish an existing one, KDP asks whether your content is AI-generated. This covers three types of content: text, images and translations. AI-generated images include your cover as well as interior images and artwork.

KDP separates two kinds of AI use, and only one of them needs to be disclosed.

AI-generated content: disclose it

KDP defines AI-generated content as text, images or translations created by an AI-based tool. If an AI tool wrote the content, it counts as AI-generated even if you edited it afterwards.

Examples include chapters drafted by an AI chatbot, a cover image made with an AI image generator, or a translation produced by an AI translation tool.

AI-assisted content: no disclosure needed

If you created the content yourself and used AI tools to edit, refine, error-check or otherwise improve it, KDP considers that AI-assisted, and you don’t need to disclose it.

Examples include grammar and spelling checkers, asking an AI tool for feedback on your own writing, or using it to brainstorm ideas that you then write yourself.

You’re still responsible for the content

Whichever applies, KDP makes authors responsible for making sure all AI-generated and AI-assisted content follows its content guidelines, including intellectual property rules. In practice, that means reviewing and editing anything an AI tool produced, and making sure it doesn’t copy someone else’s work.

Practical tips for authors

• Keep notes of which tools you used and for what, so you can answer KDP’s questions accurately.
• Answer honestly. If you’re unsure which category your use falls into, read KDP’s current Content Guidelines, as Amazon’s wording can change over time.
• Give AI-assisted drafts a human edit. AI-polished text often has repetitive phrasing and a generic tone. A careful edit makes it sound like you.
• Be careful with AI covers. AI-generated images must be disclosed, can contain visual errors, and may raise rights questions. An original, human-designed cover avoids all three.

This article explains KDP’s guidelines in plain language and isn’t legal advice. Always check Amazon’s current KDP Content Guidelines before publishing.