Utilizing BISAC Codes to Boost Your Book's Amazon Exposure
Title: Mastering Ebook Metadata: The Ultimate Guide to BISAC Codes and Amazon Categories
Hey there! Today, we're gonna talk about metadata, specifically BISAC codes, and how they can help your book distribution, promotion, and sales on Amazon. We've got Zsofia Dedinszky from a publishing metadata expert teaming up with us to share her insights on BISAC codes and choosing the perfect categories for your ebook. Let's dive in!
Book Metadata Matters
Metadata is the essential information about a book, including the author, title, description, keywords, BISAC codes, and more. It plays a crucial role in getting your book discovered, distributed, and sold. Our website has partnered with one of the finest metadata experts, Zsofia Dedinszky, who will guide us through optimizing BISAC codes and placing your book in the right Amazon category.
Why Use BISAC Codes?
BISAC codes (Book Industry Study Group codes) are used universally in the publishing industry to classify books by topic. Think of BISAC codes as the book industry's system to create a bucket, making it easier for retailers, libraries, sellers, buyers, and search engines to identify the genre your book belongs to.
Importance of BISAC Categories
Just like how it's essential to know where to look for a book in a brick-and-mortar store, it's crucial to understand the role of BISAC codes for ebooks on Amazon or any other online store. If your book is placed in the wrong category, it might not be found by potential readers, leading to negative reviews and potential sales loss.
Selecting the Best BISAC Codes for Your Ebook
Choosing the appropriate BISAC code is essential to achieving sales success. While Amazon only requires one BISAC code when uploading your book, you can provide up to three codes to appeal to a broader audience. However, keep in mind that the primary code should be the most accurate. Here are some guidelines for selecting the right BISAC codes:
- Check the BISAC Subject List: Visit the BISAC Subject Headings and search for the most accurate category your book belongs to.
- Choose the Detailed Subcategories: Once you select your primary BISAC code, explore the relevant subcategories and their BISAC codes. Remember, the more specific the subcategory, the better.
- Explore Niche Categories: Even if your book primarily fits in a highly competitive category, consider looking at niche categories that align with your book as well.
Tips for Choosing BISAC Categories
Now that you have a general idea of how to select your BISAC codes, here are nine helpful tips to keep in mind:
- Pick a category for the entire book
- Don't use a category and its subcategory
- Be as specific as possible
- Be honest about your book's content
- Don't use non-fiction categories for a fiction book
- Go for the category with the least competition
- Be creative when combining categories for cross-genre books
- Be consistent with your BISAC codes across different formats
- Reevaluate your BISAC choices periodically
Here's to boosting your book's visibility and increased chances of achieving bestseller status through smart BISAC code selection and targeted Amazon categories! Ready to get started? Check out our support article on how to upload your book on our website and get discovered by the right readers. Happy publishing!
Don't Miss Out: Understanding the Difference Between BISAC Codes and Amazon Categories
BISAC codes help the publishing industry categorize content into a broad genre, and Amazon uses these BISAC codes to place your book in proper categories on their platform. However, Amazon categories are more specific and can help you place your book in a niche genre. Keep in mind that BISAC codes and Amazon categories are separate entities.
To Rank Higher on Amazon, Choose the Right Categories
Getting your book into the right category is essential, especially on Amazon, where bestseller ranks are calculated per category. Aim for categories with less competition to increase your book's chances of ranking higher. Use the Kindle Calculator to estimate the number of sales needed to surpass the top rank in your chosen category.
So, there you have it! By mastering the art of choosing the right BISAC codes and Amazon categories, you can maximize your book's visibility and increase the likelihood of finding success on the Amazon marketplace. Let's make that bestseller list, shall we? Happy publishing!
- Leveraging technology through BISAC codes and Amazon categories can significantly improve chances of a book's discovery, distribution, and success in the digital marketplace.
- To complement lifestyle, education, and self-development pursuits, understanding the intricacies of selecting appropriate BISAC codes and Amazon categories for ebooks is essential in today's digital publishing landscape.
