Writing and Editing with AI

Introduction

AI can write text in seconds, which tempts people to publish whatever it produces. That usually leads to bland, repetitive or wrong books, bad reviews and refunds. The books that last are useful, accurate and have a real point of view. Use AI as a helper, not as the author.

The rules about AI on KDP

Amazon's content guidelines separate two cases. Check the current page, because rules change.

• AI-generated: text, images or translations that an AI tool created for you. You must tell KDP when you publish. This still counts as AI-generated even if you edit it heavily afterwards.
• AI-assisted: you wrote the content yourself and used AI to edit, refine, check for errors or brainstorm. You do not need to disclose this.

Whatever you use, you are responsible for making sure the book follows Amazon's content guidelines and does not infringe anyone's rights. If you are unsure which case applies, read the guidelines and disclose honestly. Hiding AI-generated content risks having your books removed or your account closed.

A quality-first workflow

1. Outline first, from your own knowledge. List the chapters and the key points readers need. Ask AI to suggest gaps or a better order.
2. Write the substance yourself. Add your own examples, stories, tips, steps and opinions. This is what readers pay for and what AI cannot supply.
3. Use AI for help, such as:
   • explaining something more simply
   • suggesting headings and transitions
   • checking grammar and clarity
   • producing questions readers might have
4. Rewrite in your voice. Read it aloud. If it sounds generic, change it.
5. Fact-check everything. AI can invent facts, numbers, quotes and sources. Verify each claim against a trusted source.
6. Edit twice. Once for content and once for spelling and layout. Ask a real person to read it if you can.

A helpful editing prompt:

Here is a paragraph I wrote. Do not rewrite it. List problems with clarity,
repetition and tone, and suggest small fixes I can choose from.

Originality and copyright

• Do not paste in copyrighted text from other books or websites and ask AI to "rewrite" it. That is still copying.
• In many places, purely AI-generated material may not get copyright protection, and rules differ by country. The US Copyright Office publishes guidance on AI. Keep notes on your own creative work.
• Do not use real people's names, quotes or private details without permission.

Quality checklist

• Does the book deliver what the title promises?
• Is every fact checked and every example accurate?
• Does it include something readers cannot easily get from a quick AI chat? Personal experience, tested steps and clear structure all count.
• Is it free of repeated phrases and filler?

Try it yourself

Take one chapter outline. Write the key points yourself in rough notes, then use AI only to check clarity and suggest improvements. Mark every fact you must verify before it goes in the book.

Summary

• KDP requires you to disclose AI-generated text, images and translations, but not AI-assisted help with your own writing.
• Put your own knowledge and voice first, and use AI for brainstorming, clarity and checking.
• Fact-check everything and never copy other people's work.