Most computer users have at least a passing familiarity with Portable Document Format files, better known as PDFs. As a tip, we’ll review how a PDF can be created, and even edited.

Making a PDF

More or less any document you have can be used to make a PDF. The easiest way is to use the Print function, by setting the destination to Save as PDF. In doing so, however, you will not be able to edit these PDFs after the fact. To do that while preserving the formatting, you will need to use a dedicated program for doing so. We can help you select the best one for your needs.

Converting PDFs to Other File Types

If you do need to edit a PDF (or at least the content on it), we recommend converting it into a different file type.

Microsoft Word

Converting your PDFs to the Microsoft Word format will require you to invest in a subscription to either Adobe Acrobat Reader DC, or Acrobat DC. With Acrobat installed, you just have to open the document, click on Export PDF, select Microsoft Word, and then select Word Document. If you then click Export, you can save your new .docx file wherever you need it, and then edit it as you need to in Word before once again saving it as a PDF.

Google Docs

Google Docs is able to natively open simple PDFs, with certain elements (lists, tables, and footnotes) not transposing properly. While in Google Drive, simply drag your PDF file into your desired location to upload it. Once that’s done, right-clicking it will give you the option to Open with > Google Docs. Another copy of your file will appear with the same name and extension designation, but a different icon. In order for this to work, however, the document needs to be oriented properly, and preferably using a common font, like Arial or Times New Roman.

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