PDFs are ubiquitous, and the file format is universally used. Even though it has been around for more than a decade, the format is not going anywhere. The vast compatibility of the format with various devices allows users to quickly share documents and files with great ease. Whether the recipient uses Mozilla, Safari or Chrome, everyone can access PDF documents and files with a single click. Furthermore, there’s no need to download and install special apps or tools to view a PDF document. But did you know that the PDF is capable of more than displaying information?
For example, you can easily combine several PDF documents into one and make annotations or comments on specific files without purchasing any expensive software or app. Are you intrigued that the PDF format can do more than what you perceived? If so, continue reading to know more about the amazing things that this file format can do. It’ll help you make the most of this file format in 2023 and beyond.
1. Add edits, comments and annotations to a PDF document
An essential feature to enhancing collaboration between users is adding comments and annotations to PDF files. Even though the process may differ depending on the application you are using, all of them allow users to annotate, comment and edit in real-time. So, you can quickly share your changes with those working online.
Most PDF programs allow users to leave comments in various locations, especially in the margins. It is similar to most word processing programs where you can leave comments in the margins. In addition, some programs allow users to leave sticky notes or text boxes if users want to write longer comments than usual. If you’re using Windows, editing PDFs is more accessible because you can open the file in Acrobat DC. If you’re using a Mac and wondering how to edit a PDF file on Mac, you can use PDFpen.
2. Easily convert all kinds of content into a PDF
Some programs and applications allow users to quickly and easily convert anything into a PDF, including a website, screenshot or image. In addition, programs like Adobe makes it hassle-free to carry out these types of conversions.
Also read: 10 Best PDF Reader Apps for Android
3. Convert documents into a PDF
It has become a standard feature for many online PDF programs to instantly convert documents into PDF. You can find such apps online, and most of them are available for free. However, you might have to pay a premium for accessing advanced features like making personalized changes to specific files or choosing the image resolution. Regardless of what PDF program you are using, converting a document into a PDF is not tricky. You can do it by opening the document and uploading it to the browser. Here, it will be automatically converted into the file type you have selected.
4. Gather signatures and survey responses without fuss
PDFs are pretty valuable for sharing information, along with gathering information. For example, you can use PDF to create fillable forms and send them out to relevant individuals or parties to fill out and return to you. Most online PDF programs and editors feature a database of pre-made fillable forms and other templates that make it easy to create questionnaires, surveys, etc.
5. Merge several files into a single PDF
Thanks to several offline and online PDF programs, you can easily merge or combine different files into a single PDF. First, you need to collect the different files and save them to your cloud-based account or local drive. Then, you can drag and drop them into a specific program or browser to start the merging process. Some programs limit the file size, but other programs allow users to merge as many files as they want. You need to check the program’s features you are using before proceeding.
6. View the PDFs in full-screen
There might be instances when you need to view the PDF in full-screen. It might be that you cannot read what is written or need to open the file in full-screen mode for a presentation you are giving. Whatever the reason, you will find PDF editors that allow full- screen mode. You need to check the view option for the specific tool or browser you are using and enable the full-screen mode of the chosen PDF file.
7. Search the PDF for what you want to find
Several PDFs work seamlessly with optical character recognition, and this allows users to find certain text in a large file. The feature of finding something specific in PDFs is common to advanced PDF editing programs, such as Adobe. There’s also another program called Lumin PDF that allows users to search for what they are looking for in large PDF files. The feature will save you time from having to read through every line in the PDF to find the phrase or term you are looking for.
Summing up
Initially, the PDF format began as a simple tool used for document transmission via the Internet. The format was recognizable and readable across devices and browsers, and therefore, its popularity grew. The community also grew of the format, and they worked very hard to create high-end tools that introduced advanced features. As a result, you can use PDFs to share and gather information and convert almost anything into a PDF. So, keep the tricks mentioned above in mind and make the most use of the PDF format.