KDP Select: Is Exclusivity Still Worth It In 2014?

To KDP Select or not to KDP Select? That is still, even right here in 2014, one of the biggest publishing questions new writers have when launching their books. Is three months of exclusivity in exchange for a few free days and countdown promotions worth it? Or should I distribute to the other stores and try my luck, sacrificing visibility — the buzzword of the moment — in the process?

In 2012 and 2013, I was clear on my stance on KDP Select. I believed it to be a great tool for beginner write...