Guides

PDF guides

Practical explanations for the PDF jobs people search for most — what is going on inside the file, and the quickest way to get it done.

• How to reduce a PDF file size (under 1 MB, 200 KB or 100 KB)

  Why PDFs get large, how compression works, and step-by-step ways to get a file under an upload limit without making it unreadable.

• How to convert a PDF to an editable Word document without losing formatting

  What survives a PDF to Word conversion, how to handle scanned PDFs, and practical tips for keeping layout intact.

• How to merge PDF files on a phone or computer

  Combine several PDFs into one in the right order, on Android, iPhone, Windows or Mac — without installing an app.

• How to split a PDF or extract specific pages

  The difference between splitting and extracting, how to write page ranges, and when to use each.

• How to remove a password from a PDF you can open

  Remove the open password from bank statements and other encrypted PDFs when you know the password — and what is not possible.

• What does it mean to flatten a PDF, and when should you?

  Flattening explained: what happens to form fields and annotations, why portals sometimes require it, and how to do it.

• Is it safe to use online PDF tools? Browser-only processing explained

  Where your file goes when you use an online PDF tool, the difference between server and browser processing, and how to check.

• How to sign a PDF for free without printing

  Draw, type or upload a signature and place it on a PDF from your phone or computer, then lock it in place.