pdf to excel

Maintaining Your Tables: Converting PDF Files to Excel

A PDF table provides a neat presentation of data, but it does not allow you to manipulate it.

Without any way to edit it, you cannot add entries or delete a row. You’re also restricted from modifying formulas. While anyone can view a PDF file, performing any changes, especially on a table, is very limited.

With so many ways to do the conversion, it can end up confusing and overwhelming.

Don’t fret. We’ve got you covered.

We’ve shortlisted the best techniques to convert PDF to Excel files. Here are three of the most used ways you can choose from:

Technique 1: Using Adobe Acrobat

This is the simplest method, but it offers one caveat – it’s a paid-for application. However, you can still use it with the seven-day trial for Adobe Acrobat Pro DC. If you’re doing a one-off conversion, this technique is a great choice.

The steps to follow are:

  1. Download and install Adobe Acrobat Pro DC.
  2. Launch the application and select the Tools tab.
  3. Click on the Export PDF on the main window under Create & Edit. You can also choose Export PDF on the pane on the right-side.
  4. Select the file you want to convert and choose Spreadsheet from the list of export options.
  5. You can click on the Gear icon on the upper right corner to adjust the settings. It allows you to choose the symbols used as data separators and the number of worksheets to create.
  6. Click the blue Export button and choose the directory location where you will save the file.

The conversion can take a while. It will depend on the complexity of the table and your computer’s speed.

Technique 2: Copy and Paste

Copy and paste is another simple way of bringing the data to Excel. The manual steps you need to do are offset by the flexibility you can get.

You’ll be able to choose which particular rows to copy. You can also arrange the entries while copying and pasting.

The following are the detailed steps:

  1. Select the data you want to copy.
  2. Then, use either the keyboard shortcut: “Ctrl + C” or Right-click and choose “Copy” from the pop-up menu.
  3. Use the Paste Special command in Excel. You can do this with the drop-down option on the Paste button or via the keyboard shortcut “Ctrl + Alt + V.”
  4. Clean up and arrange the data using Excel features.

Excel provides many Paste Options such as HTML, Unicode, and Text. The results you get will appear in a single column of data, though. You’ll have to perform step three to make the table appear as it would in the original PDF file.

Excel provides several tools and functionalities that can help with the cleanup process. This includes the Remove Duplicates and Text to Columns commands.

While this technique remains to be a popular choice, it has several limitations.

Some PDF files can prevent you from selecting and copying data. Even if you’re successful in copying and pasting, it might still need a manual arrangement.

Technique 3: Using Microsoft Word

Using Microsoft Word can help you lessen, if not rule out, the cleanup process. The table will also have the same formatting and structure most of the time.

In a nutshell, all you have to do is open the file in MS Word. Then, copy the table and paste it into Excel. Here are the detailed steps:

  1. Open the PDF on Word. You can do this by opening it straight from the MS Office application. Or, you can right-click on the file from the folder, choose “Open with,” then select Microsoft Word.
  2. A dialog box will pop up, informing you that the application will convert the PDF file into a Word document. Click the OK button.
  3. Copy the sections you want and paste them to Excel using the shortcut “Ctrl + V” or using right-click and “Paste.”

This technique works well with simple tables. Complex ones usually end up pasting some cells as images, though. In case this happens, you’ll have to type the text yourself.

Technique 4: Use OffDrive

Need to convert your files fast? If you’re working on the go or rushing on a deadline, OffDrive is the best solution. This is a browser-based conversion tool that covers all your file needs.

You can use OffDrive to convert between Excel and PDF. You also have options for Powerpoints, Spreadsheets, and Documents.

Benefits of Transforming PDF Tables to Excel

The advantages of converting PDF tables to Excel go beyond data manipulation. In general, it can boost your everyday productivity.

Data Becomes More Accessible

PDF is a great way to share files across different groups, whether compressed or not. However, it doesn’t leave any room for adjustments.

You might need to add a new column to add more statistics. Converting the data to Excel makes it more accessible for editing.

Opportunity to Update Entries

If you’re using Excel tables for your leads list, you’ll be able to keep the information up-to-date. You can delete outdated contacts and email addresses or even delete duplicate entries.

Run Macros to Automate Tasks

One of the features that make Excel very useful is the ability to record a macro. Using macros allows you to automate a set of actions that you often use when updating tables. This saves you a lot of time because you don’t have to do a manual change of formatting for every cell.

Visual Presentation of Data

Excel has aspects that allow you to show a visual representation of data. You can use these features to turn a boring worksheet into an eye-catching pie chart. With the use of charts and graphs, you can analyze the data in the tables faster.

Convert from PDF to Excel and Manage Tables Easier

These three techniques to convert PDF to Excel can remove the limitations imposed by PDF. You can now maintain your tables and manipulate the data without problems.

Do you want a more encompassing approach? Try to convert your PDF to DOCX format and change the entire content of a file easier.

Posted in PDF
pdf to doc

How To Convert PDF to Doc Without Losing Formatting

What makes a document stand out is in two aspects.

One is in its contents. This includes the information that makes the document relevant and important. 

The other is in its formatting. This gives the document its distinct appearance and function.

When converting a PDF into a different file type such as a word document, the problem that tends to surface is in how it messes with the formatting and layout. The question now is how to change the file from PDF to DOC without losing the layout and formatting set on it. 

Today, that is what we will explore. We look into the steps on how to preserve PDF formatting when changing its file type.

Why Convert a PDF to a Word File?

Before we explore file conversion, let us look at the benefits of converting PDF to DOC. PDFs lend well as portable document files that you can access online due to their file size. It is also easy to send and transfer. 

You can access and view these files on various devices. This ranges from desktop computers to mobile devices.

Though there would be situations where you need to convert a PDF into a different file type. Here are the reasons as to why this becomes a need.

PDF Reader Unavailable

One of the leading reasons behind the desire to convert a PDF file is this. It might be due to how the device used to view the file would either not have a program available to read and open it, or the reader would be incompatible with the device.

For this reason, it leads you to either install a PDF reader or to get a file converter. A file converter might be a beneficial option when you have multiple machines that do not have a reader. Converting the PDF would prove far more efficient when you look at this perspective.

Enacting Edits on the Document

Another reason why file conversion is the better option is due to the need of making the edits on the document. This would be for correcting, adding, or subtracting information from the document. The means of allowing changes on the document helps the case for file conversion.

Another aspect that you can see for file conversion is how it helps with filling up forms. Although this is a feature offered in some PDF Readers. This relies on its availability to users and the program’s compatibility with the device. 

This situation also changes when you use a web browser to access and open the PDF. You can only input the required information if the PDF has fillable fields. The absence of this feature in a file limits the ways you can accomplish the forms.

With that in mind, it shows that converting a PDF into a Word file is the faster and better option. This also allows you to use tools that can let you change your text font and size, as well as other formatting features.

Assistance from Accessibility Options

The other aspect to look at is the capability to read the document. In this case, you have programs that can help the visually-impaired in reading the document using screen-reading tools. The problem is that these tools tend to be incompatible with PDFs.

Converting the PDF to a DOC file poses a better situation for screen-reading tools. It makes the document readable that it can now work for dictation. This is desirable for the blind when they need to know what the document contains.

Ways to Convert PDF to DOC

Most of the programs and applications that work with document creation offer a means to convert a document into a PDF. You can see this feature in the office suite and word processors, allowing you to create a PDF in a flash.

It is possible to reverse the process, where you can save the PDF as a DOC file. One such method is through the use of an online conversion tool. For this, you just need to upload the file to the online file converter, then convert.

The other method would have a step-by-step process using a PDF Reader. This is how those steps would proceed.

Using Adobe Reader

For this, open the PDF using the reader. After which, go to File and then choose Export. From there, choose Microsoft Word Document as the file format of choice.

This is where you need to pause as continuing at this point would end up with you losing the formatting. So, from here, go to Settings and go to Layout Settings to make the needed changes.

Here, you would see some formatting options that you can choose to retain. Clicking on Retain Flowing Text would allow you to preserve the text flow, but the downside is that it would not save the formatting layout. That goes to the other option that says Retain Page Layout.

Once you managed to put in the setting changes. Choose whether you wish to include comments and images. Once done, click on OK and then click Save to turn the document into a Word file.

Just to be sure, check the file on Microsoft Word. See if there are layout changes or it managed to convert properly. 

After Conversion

After converting the PDF to DOC, open the file once more and see if it managed to preserve the formatting. If it managed to do so, then you succeeded with the file conversion. Just in case, check the entirety of the document.

This way, you can check for any errors that may have happened during conversion. You only need to fix it until you’re happy with the format. You can also test out the common Word functions

Convert PDF to DOC Today

There would be reasons why you should convert your PDF to DOC. Whether this is due to the need to edit or you need a file accessible for everyone, file conversion is one of the faster solutions available. This becomes possible when you have online file converters that you can access from anywhere at any time. 

We can help you convert your files into the format that you need. Check out our converters today to get started. You can also contact us for any inquiries, suggestions, and comments.

Posted in PDF
resize a pdf file

How to Quickly and Easily Resize a PDF File

Does your job entail sending all sorts of files to different people? Then encountering PDF files is likely a staple in your everyday work.

The Portable Document Format, or PDF, remains one of the most enduring file formats in the world. There are even over 7.7 billion unique PDF users in 2018.

With the PDFs ability to secure files, we can expect millions of people to continue utilizing them for a long time. However, using PDF is not always a breeze. Sometimes, you need to resize a PDF file for different reasons.

Thus, the question: do you know how to resize a PDF file? If your answer is “no,” then continue reading below to learn how to resize them quickly and easily.

Resize a PDF File Using Adobe Acrobat Pro

There are different ways to resize a PDF file. Since the PDF is a creation of Adobe, nearly three decades ago, let us first discuss how to convert PDFs using the Adobe Acrobat Pro. Using Acrobat Pro is a good option if you want to resize a file without compromising its quality.

To begin, open your Adobe Acrobat Pro and hit the “File” menu. From there, choose “Open” then select the PDF you wish to resize then select “Open.”

Next, drag the PDF file into the “Compress PDF” box. Alternatively, you can hit “Select a file” and select it from your computer. Once the file is ready, you can save it by hitting “Download.”

Next, go back to the “File” menu at the top of the screen. Click either “Compress PDF” or “Reduce File Size.” The option that you will see may vary depending on the Acrobat version you’re using.

Thereafter, you can choose the location you wish to save the PDF file. You may also rename the file while in this step. Complete the process by clicking “Save.”

Keep in mind that resizing your PFs using the Acrobat Pro means buying the Acrobat software. Unfortunately, a lot of people find it quite expensive.

Resizing to A4

Another skill you need to learn is resizing your PDF files to A4. This is important since PDF is one of the favorite formats to use when distributing documents online.

Also, resizing your PDFs to A4 is somewhat tricky especially if you’re using the free version of Adobe Reader. This is because the free version cannot edit the PDF files.

If you wish to resize the PDF for printing purposes, begin by double-clicking the PDF file. You will use your default reader that comes with your computer. Alternatively, you can use the official Adobe Reader, which you can download for free.

Next, hit the “Print File” option at the top portion of the reader. Choose “Fit to Printable Area,” which you can find next to “Page Scaling” on the drop-down menu.

Thereafter, look for the radio button under “Print Rage.” This allows you to print the entire PDF document. If you don’t want to print the entire thing, select “Pages” and pick the range of the pages that you wish to print.

Hit “OK” to begin printing. Make sure to set your printer to A4 settings to ensure that the PDF pages will fit the page size.

Through Mac Preview

Are you using a Mac computer? Worry not, as you can also resize a PDF file with your device. The main tool that you will use to resize PDF files on Mac computers is the Preview app.

Using Preview, open the PDF file you want to resize. Take note if the PDF file opens in a different app.

If it does, close the app then right-click on the PDF file. Choose “Open with” then hit “Preview.”

Next, go to the menu bar at the top of the screen and open the “File” menu. Hit “Export” and click the “Format” menu. Be careful not to select “Export as PDF.”

Next, you want to click the “Quartz Filter” menu. From there, hit the “Reduce File Size” option. Keep in mind that once you hit this button, the quality of your PDF file will go down. This is more evident if the file comes with images.

Thankfully, there is an option to retain the larger version as your original copy of the PDF. To do this, you need to rename the smaller version. A good tip is to type the word “smaller” before “.pdf”.

Thereafter, pick a location where you want to save the file. Finally, hit the “Save” button to complete the process.

Why You Should Resize a PDF

If sending PDF files via email is a norm for you, then resizing them will help you get rid of dead call time.

This is crucial if you need to send the PDF file to another person who needs it right away. By resizing your PDFs, you will be able to send them faster via email. In turn, you can respond to your clients and attend to their concerns swiftly.

Also, you will have a faster time transferring and downloading if you reduce the PDF file size. This is most beneficial when you’re working on PDF documents with hundreds of pages like mortgages and loans. Resizing a PDF also allows you to convert your PDF to EPS and other file formats much faster.

Finally, resizing allows for better collaboration. With faster file transmissions, you can send PDF files to other members of the team more efficiently. They can review the files and provide feedback faster.

As a result, the company becomes more productive. Additionally, smaller files are easier to access using mobile devices. The increase in productivity is only one of the reasons why PDFs are the most important file format around.

Convert Your PDFs and Other Files Today!

Now that you know how to resize a PDF file, you can enjoy faster transfers and better collaborations. In case you don’t have Adobe Acrobat, you can still resize your PDFs through other reliable means.

Check out our different methods for converting PDFs and other file formats, too. Discover the different conversions you can do with our help today!

Posted in PDF
encrypt a pdf

Why and How to Encrypt a PDF: Your Guide

Portable Document Format or PDF is a popular universal file format used since 1993. It’s a user-friendly, downloadable, and printable file format that works in all systems. However, PDF files are not safe from theft, plagiarism, and copyright.

This is when you should encrypt your files and add PDF protection. Encrypting your PDF files will help you protect your content and limit access. In this guide, we’ll explain why you should try encryption and how to encrypt a PDF.

Why Should You Encrypt A PDF?

Encryption is a great way to protect your files and data from foreign and unwanted visitors. When you encrypt a PDF, you place a PDF password to add security measures.

Here are some reasons why having PDF protection can benefit you!

Control Who Sees It

In some cases, you have to share a PDF for work or school purposes. When you share PDF files, everyone can see and access the content of your PDF. Encrypting the PDF means you limit who has access to the file and the data.

The encryption will ensure that only those with the password can open the files. However, passwords can get compromised if the people you share them with are not trustworthy. You should only give the password to the people you trust or your partners.

Stop Unwanted Sharing and Editing

When you password protect PDF files, you limit how people interact with your file. You can stop people from copy and pasting the content of your file. No one else will have the power to change or share your file unless they have access.

Adding a watermark is another smart way to avoid unwanted sharing. However, many people have the skills to remove or change the watermark to make it their own. Encrypting your PDFs is the best way to decrease public file interaction and improve security.

Maintain Content Integrity

Locking up your PDF document is a great way to preserve the integrity and uniqueness of your content. If they do not have permission, no one can look, embed, or copy-paste your data. When you lock your PDF, no one can access your file when they embed it without permission.

Lessens Your Worries

PDF protection benefits many businesses, especially those in the medical, financial, and government sectors. PDF files are the best medium to share documents containing internal processes and trade secrets. A password will prevent that info and data from getting leaked and taken advantage of.

Secure Remote Offices

With many businesses going remote during the pandemic, sending files back and forth is the best way to get information. With many sensitive data passing back and forth, encryption is your best solution. You can fight against accidental loss of data or theft with encrypted PDF files.

Tax accountants and other service organizations need to be careful with their files. The encrypted files encourage users to have backups and controlled devices. Strong key management is another strategy that you should do along with encryption.

How to Encrypt A PDF

Increase the security of your PDF files by learning how to encrypt a PDF. There are three ways you can encrypt: using Acrobat, Microsoft Word, and the Preview app.

Learn the step-by-step guide to encrypt a PDF with the three methods.

Use Adobe Acrobat

Adobe is one of the most trustworthy companies, making software for the publication and creation of content. Did you know that about 250 million people open PDFs using Adobe products? 

Start by signing up with your Adobe Creative Cloud if you haven’t already. Once you’ve opened Adobe, go over to the upper-left corner and click on the File menu. Select Open and choose the PDF file that you want to encrypt.

Click on the File menu again and click on Protect Using Password. The dialogue box will appear, asking for you to choose a password for Viewing or Editing. Choose between the two, then write down your desired password.

If you want to add security for editing and printing, then click on the Tools tab. Scroll down until you find security and select the advanced options. Head over to the drop-down menu and pick Encrypt with Password.

When the Password Security windows appear, check the box next to Restrict Editing and Printing on the Document. Under the Permissions area, pick the types of editing and printing allowed. For the final step, select your encryption and compatibility setting and click OK.

Use Microsoft Word

Open the Microsoft document that you would like to encrypt as a PDF. Go to the File menu, click on the Info tab and select Protect Document. Choose Encrypt with Password, enter the password twice and click OK and you’re done.

Another way to encrypt with Microsoft is by clicking on Save As on the Microsoft document. Save the file as a PDF, then select More options underneath the file format area. Select Options, opening a pop-up box where you can click the Encrypt the Document with A Password.

Use the macOS Preview App

Right-click on the file you want to encrypt and choose Open With, then select Preview. Open the PDF file and select the File menu, then click on Export from the drop-down choices. The Export pop-up box will appear, where you can type in a name and select a designation.

Check the box next to Encrypt, making the window bigger for you to put a password. Enter it twice and click on the Save button to complete the process. Once the encryption finish processing, a password prompt to check if the password works.

Your Guide to PDF Encryption

When you encrypt a PDF, you save your rights to the content and protect it from intruders. Keep all your data locked up with strong passwords containing symbols, numbers, and letters.

Are you having trouble converting your other files into PDFs? We have a free online file conversion available for your disposal. You can convert your PDFs to PNG, DOCX, and even EPUB formats!

Posted in PDF
convert zip to pdf

How to Convert ZIP Files to PDFs: Your Complete Guide

Whether it’s for school, personal life, or business, file conversion is a tactic used to help ease sending files. The file types such as DOC, DOCX, JPEG, PDF, and GIF allow us to view documents and images differently.

However, there are times when we get an uncommon file type like a ZIP file that sends us in a loop. It’s unlike the other file types but can help protect your files like a PDF.

ZIP files can be converted to other file types with the right software. Let’s take a look at how we can convert ZIP to PDF and continue protecting our files.

What Is a ZIP File?

A ZIP file is like a “super folder.” Typically, when we want to organize our documents, we put them in a folder and then move them to a preferred location. 

The problem with folders is that we can’t email them if we need to because the contents may be too big. ZIP files ease this burden. The files inside the zip archive are compressed into a smaller size, and now you’ll be able to send them with no problems.

How Do I Make a Zip File?

If you want to send multiple large documents, you should create a ZIP file. To do this:

  • You highlight the files you want to send, right-click, and scroll down to “Compressed (zipped) Folder”
  • You’ll see a folder with a zip on it which will have your compressed files
  • Rename the folder and send your documents 

It’s a straightforward process, and you’ll be able to send documents more efficiently.

If you want extra protection for your ZIP archive, you can also encrypt them with a password. It will help protect your files from any potential threats in case they get lost on the internet.

What Do I Do With a Zip File?

When you receive a zip file, you may be wondering what to do with it. Well, you unzip it. To do that, you’ll need software that specializes in unzipping files.

There are a few different types of software such as:

  • WinZip
  • 7-Zip
  • WinRAR
  • PeaZip

Some of these programs will require you to pay for the full features to unzip your files, while others are open source. Depending on how often you work with ZIP files, make sure that you choose wisely.

The software will extract all the files in the ZIP archive and create a new folder inside. Now you have all of your necessary documents.

Convert ZIP to PDF

File conversion is used in most of our computer duties, and it makes it easier to open up different types of files. The most common file conversions would be:

  • DOC to DOCX
  • DOC/DOCX to PDF
  • JPG to PDF
  • PDF to DOCX
  • PPTX to PDF

These have become essential for computer users to transfer crucial files in their required formats. Although it may not be as common as the other file types, it is possible to convert ZIP files to PDF.

Converting a ZIP archive to a PDF is different than converting another file type like DOCX because the converted documents can be merged into one single PDF once you unzip them.

DOCX files are unzipped individually, and then you’ll have to put them together manually. So converting your ZIP files to PDF format can be helpful.

There are free file conversion tools and different software that can help you convert your files. Here’s how you go about unzipping your files and converting them:

  • Right-click on your ZIP archive and select “Convert to PDF”
    • This will create PDF files for all of the documents
  • You can also right-click on your ZIP archive and choose “Combine to one PDF”
    • Doing this will combine all your PDF files into a document making it easier to view

And that’s it. That’s how simple it is to convert your ZIP archive into PDF files. It’s also good to remember that you can choose the location you want your files to go to, so you’re not searching for them.

Is ZIP Better Than PDF?

Both ZIP archives and PDF files are excellent for their respective uses. As I mentioned before, ZIP archives can compress large files that you’re sending. ZIP archives also make it easier to find all the files once they are unzipped.

However, there are times when using ZIP files that the contents may become corrupt. This happens because altering the files to compress and then expand them alters the data inside.

Some scams have been associated with using ZIP files. Scammers choose to use ZIP archives to gain valuable information from potential citizens. So you’ll have to be careful when using ZIP files at times.

Although they can’t compress files like ZIP archives, PDF files give options to secure files and make them easier to present. PDF files are the most common file used for sending important documents without altering their contents.

You can also alter PDF files if they need to be edited, making them a great option. ZIP files cannot be modified. What is in the ZIP file is already compressed. Editing will have to come after decompressing the files and making changes then.

Time To Convert Your Files

We know that file conversion is essential to our everyday lives, and now we know the different types that there are. You’ve also learned that you can convert ZIP to PDF to make it easier to view your compressed files.

If this post was helpful and you want to learn more about file conversion, be sure to check our other blog posts.

Posted in PDF
convert PDF

How to Convert PDF Files for Your Kindle

Almost 20 percent of people reported owning a Kindle or other e-reader device. The Kindle’s easy-to-use features and lightweight functionality make them extremely popular to read books, magazines, newspapers, and their own PDF files.

While downloading e-books onto a Kindle may be seamless, downloading your PDFs onto your Kindle is a different story.

Many people do not know how to convert PDF files from their computer or phone to their Kindle. If this sounds like a familiar problem, have no fear. 

We have created a complete guide on everything you need to know about converting PDF files to read on your Kindle. 

Convert PDF Files from Your Desktop or Laptop

The first way many people think they can convert PDF files to their Kindle is through their laptop or desktop device. Whether or not you have an Apple or a PC, here are the steps for transferring PDF files from your computer to your Kindle. 

First, locate the exact PDF file or files you want to convert to your Kindle. There is nothing worse than going through the hassle of transferring over a PDF only to discover later that it was the wrong one. 

Once you have the correct PDF file, plug in your Kindle to your computer with a USB cord. You should see the name of your Kindle show up in either the Explorer section of Windows or the Finder section of Apple.

Open the Kindle in either the Explorer or Finder section and click on the “documents” folder. 

Next, you can either copy and paste the PDF file you want to be converted directly into the “documents” folder or simply drag and drop it into the folder.

Once you have deposited the PDF file into this folder, you are done. You can do this for as many PDF files as you need to be converted. 

You will see the newly converted PDF files in your library the next time you use your Kindle.

Send PDF Files to Your Kindle Via Your Email

Another, less well-known way of converting PDF files to your Kindle is to send them through email. This hack for converting PDFs is a great option if you are traveling, on-the-go, or do not have access to your laptop or desktop. 

Here are the steps to take if you want to send your PDFs to your Kindle. 

First, log on to Amazon and go to the “preferences” tab under the “manage your content and devices” section. Go to “personal document settings” and then from there, go to “send to Kindle email settings.”

There you should be able to find the “approved personal document email list.” Verify that your email address is listed in this section. If not, add it now.

Next, you need to find your Kindle email address. Finding this address will enable you to send converted PDF files directly to your Kindle from your email.

To find this, go on your Kindle and go to “app settings.” Verify what the email address is under “send to Kindle email address.” 

Once you have all this information, you can now send PDF files via email. Open up a new email draft. Put “Convert” in the subject line and attach the PDF files you want to read on your Kindle. 

Type in your Kindle email address in the address field and click send. Once the email is sent, you should be able to read the PDFs on your Kindle with ease. 

How to Read PDFs on Your Kindle

Following any of these methods listed above will help you read any type of PDF on your Kindle. In both scenarios, you will need to give it a few minutes to allow for the PDF files to load completely.

It should be noted that there may be minor formatting issues you see when reading these converted PDF files. Some common issues you see could be indents being a little off, spacing issues between paragraphs, and more.

If your newly converted PDF has images included in them, there is a chance that they may not load all the way or have formatting issues as well.

A good rule of thumb to prevent most formatting issues when converting PDF files is to send from a laptop or desktop rather than emailing them. 

Emailing PDF files to your Kindle is a great option for when your PDFs are text-heavy and you are not near a computer. However, emailing PDF files typically sees the most issues with formatting. 

Formatting differences aside, reading your PDFs on a Kindle is a great way to read through work documents or academic textbooks. If you are a writer, sending PDF files to another person’s Kindle is an easy way to get more people to read your work.

Looking for More Tech Tips and Tricks for Kindles?

File conversion can seem like an extremely tricky matter to many people. For that reason, most people avoid using their Kindle to its full capacity simply because they do not know how to convert PDF files. 

We hope this comprehensive guide has taught you the best ways on converting PDF files to your Kindle. Take the power of the Kindle back into your own hands to read more than you have before by converting PDF files. 

If you are looking for more info on how to convert PDF files to your Kindles, visit us at Offdrive. Our blog has all the latest insights and trends into tech tips and tricks to make your life easier. 

Posted in PDF
convert images to pdf

4 Ways to Convert Images to PDF

PDF is the most popular file format and is the file for choice in the business sector and education. The file is universal and is an excellent way to transfer data across platforms. 

If you’re sending your CV in for a job application, it most likely has to be in PDF format. The same goes for presentations, reports…the list goes on. 

You can convert any file to a PDF, you just need to know how to do it. So how do you convert images to PDF? 

If you need to convert a screenshot or send an image to be used in a brochure or just want to know how to do it, keep reading for four easy ways. 

1. Image to PDF Converter Using Windows 10

If you’re using a Windows computer and running Windows 10, you have everything you need at your disposal to convert a JPG file to a PDF format. The nifty windows tool is called ‘Microsoft Print to PDF’ and you can convert almost any document format to PDF using this print setting. 

‘Microsoft Print to PDF’ will save your chosen file onto your computer in PDF format. 

To convert an image simply open Windows File Explorer (Windows + E) and select the JPG file(s) that you’d like to convert. If you choose to convert multiple files it will convert to a multi-page PDF document. 

Right-click on the selected file(s) to select and open the ‘Print’ box. choose the ‘Microsoft Print to PDF’ printer from the dropdown menu. After you’ve selected your files, click ‘Print’. You’ll be prompted into choosing a folder to save your converted JPG to a PDF file. 

It’s as simple as that. If, for some reason, the ‘Microsoft Print to PDF‘ printer is missing from the list then download Adobe Reader DC and choose this in your printer options. 

2. Free Image to PDF Converter on Mac

For those using Mac computers, the process is relatively similar to that on Windows and is just as straightforward. First, open the JPG or PNG file using the Preview app (the icon is a magnifier on top of a stack of photos) in your Mac’s Dock. Alternatively, search for the Preview app using Spotlight or ‘Command + Space.’

Choose and open the image once you’re in the app. You can select more than one picture to convert using this tool. Select ‘File’ and choose to ‘Export as PDF’ and save the newly converted file. 

You can also select ‘Print’ and choose ‘PDF’ in the bottom left dropdown box on the print screen. Then click ‘Save as PDF’ in the dropdown menu. A box will appear prompting you to insert a new file name and choose a folder to save the converted file in. 

Both ways work well to convert an image to PDF, simply experiment and figure out the best and most efficient way for you and your files. 

3. Saving Images as PDF on iPhone

These days we do most of our communication, e-commerce, and even work on our smartphones. The powerful gadgets also make it possible to convert an image into a PDF format. 

Start by going into your photo gallery from the home screen. Find the photo you’d like to convert and tap it to open it. You can also select and convert multiple photos by choosing ‘Select’ in the top-right corner and then choosing the photos you’d like to convert. You’ll see a tick appear on the photos that you’ve selected. 

In the bottom-left corner of the iPhone screen, you’ll see a ‘Share’ icon that resembles a square with an arrow pointing upwards. Tap the ‘Share’ button to open a pop-up menu. 

There will be many options for you to choose how to share the selected images. Underneath all of the Social options, choose ‘Print’ on the second row. If you’re using an older model iPhone, you may need to scroll down past a few options to find the ‘Print’ icon. 

A ‘Printer Options’ page will pop up where you can open the image in PDF view. Use your fingers to zoom-in on the preview at the bottom of your screen and this will open the images in PDF preview. Once the preview is open, tap the ‘Share’ icon and choose ‘Save to Files.’ Choose an appropriate location on your phone to save the converted file.

4. Image to PDF Converter Online

There are a ton of awesome web tools that allow users to convert all types of file formats, including images to PDF. Some are paid tools and others are free image to PDF converters that you’ll find online.

With Offdrive’s Free File Conversion you can convert JPG to PDF and PNG to PDF, among many other image formats. Simply choose the correct file type from the ‘Image Conversion’ dropdown menu. Select ‘Browse’ and find and select the image that you’d like to convert. Then select the ‘Convert PNG to PDF’ button. 

The image will be converted in a couple of seconds and you will have the option to download it. Your image will be downloaded into a PDF file in your ‘Downloads.’ You can convert as many images as you’d like with this online converter along with tons of other conversions including spreadsheets, documents, and archives. 

Convert Images to PDF and Any Other File Online for Free

There you have it, four simple ways to convert images to PDF using your computer, iPhone, or online, for free. Now you’ll never have to worry about not being able to upload or send through pictures and screenshots when it’s most important.

Simply visit Offdrive.com and choose from the extensive drop menu of conversion options. Upload, hit convert, and download your newly converted file. It’s free to use and you can convert as many files as you’d like. All you need to do is choose the files and the superior software will do the rest. 

Offdrive is the solution for college students, professionals, and business owners who’d like to take their work to the next level but simply don’t have the software to do it. Our most popular conversion is DOCX to PDF, but the world is your oyster! 

Posted in PDF
epub to pdf

EPUB to PDF Conversions: A Quick and Easy Guide

The 2010s didn’t bring the e-book revolution everyone was expecting. Still, e-books play an important role in making books more accessible. The two most common e-book formats are EPUB and PDF.

When it comes to e-readers, the EPUB format is the most suitable. EPUB is reflowable, allowing the text to be more adaptable for smaller screens.

This flexibility becomes a problem when you want to print an EPUB file. This can be one of the reasons why you would want to convert from EPUB to PDF.

If you don’t know how to convert your EPUB files, then read on! This guide will tell you all about the two formats and how you can convert EPUB to PDF.

What Is EPUB?

EPUB stands for electronic publication and has the “.epub” file extension. In 2007, it became the official standard of the International Digital Publishing Forum. EPUB bases on HTML, giving it high adaptability.

EPUB can store text, fonts, images, stylesheets, tables of content, and metadata. Screen size doesn’t affect the formatting of EPUB files since they’re layout agnostic. This allows EPUB to display content on as small as 3.5″ screens.

Written in XML and XHTML, EPUB is an easier format for software developers to work with. It’s deliverable as a ZIP file archive. A single file can store the entire content files and organization of a book.

End-users can use EPUB on various devices or e-readers like Kobo. Android and iOS devices have native apps for reading EPUB files: Google Play Books and iBooks. On Windows, you can use various free third-party programs to open and edit EPUB files.

However, to create and build an EPUB file archive, you must have some programming knowledge.

What Is PDF?

PDF is an acronym for Portable Digital Format. Used beyond e-books, it’s a format for document exchange developed by Adobe in 1993. Aside from text and graphics, PDFs can contain interactive elements like annotations and form fields.

The PDF displays files in a two-dimensional layout. This 2D layout works regardless of most software and operating systems.

This means a PDF file looks the same on different devices. This is why PDF is the preferred format in situations like college paper submissions.

This fixed-layout also means that PDFs are not adaptable to different screen sizes. Unlike EPUB, PDF does not have inherent support to reflow its content. This makes it hard to view some PDF files on smaller screens.

The code for generating PDF is also more complex. For software developers, this makes PDF a difficult format to work with.

Anyone can view PDF files on a computer with a PDF reader like Adobe Acrobat Reader. Android and iOS devices have native support for opening PDF files.

PDF is still the most common electronic document format. It’s customizable, and you can control the document’s look, from layout to fonts. PDFs are also easy to create using programs beyond Adobe like Microsoft Word or Google Docs.

How to Convert EPUB to PDF

You’ll need specific software for converting an EPUB file to PDF. There are many of these tools online you can use or download for free. See them below if you’re wondering, “how do I convert EPUB to PDF?”

Option 1: Zamzar

Go to Zamzar’s online EPUB to PDF converter. Select the EPUB file you want to convert using the “Add Files” button. You can also drag and drop the EPUB file straight onto the page.

Once you’ve uploaded the EPUB file, select the output format as PDF. Next, click “Convert Now” to start the process.

Once the process is complete, Zamzar will redirect you to the result page with a download link. Hit “Download” and save your new PDF file.

Option 2: Convertio

Convertio is another free online converter you can use to convert EPUB to PDF. It supports advanced options that allow you to configure files according to preference. You can also convert multiple files at once.

On Convertio’s converter page, select “Choose Files” to import the EPUB file you want to convert. In the “Document” section, choose PDF as the output format.

Next, click “Convert” to start the process. Once the conversion is complete, get your PDF file by clicking “Download.”

Option 3: eBooktoPDF

This free online converter allows you to convert EPUB, MOBI, FB2, AZW, and other formats. It offers mass conversion and has high-quality outputs. Converted files keep the quality of the original files.

On the eBooktoPDF site, select the EPUB file you want to convert using the “UPLOAD FILES” button. Once it’s complete, download your file or files by clicking the “DOWNLOAD ALL” button.

Option 4: Calibre

Calibre is a free desktop e-book converter. Unlike online converters, Calibre allows you to make changes in the EPUB file. This includes adding metadata or changing the e-book’s cover.

Once you have Calibre open, choose “Add books” and select the EPUB file you want to convert. After this, the EPUB file should appear on the interface. Click the EPUB file on the interface to highlight it. Next, click “Convert books.”

A pop-up window for the conversion will appear. Set the “Output Format” to PDF. Add or make any changes you need to the metadata in this window.

If everything is set, hit “OK,” and you’ll return to Calibre’s library interface. Proceed to the left pane and select the dropdown arrow beside “Formats.” In the expanded list, select PDF.

Choose your PDF file, then click “Save to disk.” Choose the folder or device, and you’re done.

Convert Your Other Files Today With OffDrive

EPUB and PDF each have their own merits when it comes to digital document viewing. Sometimes, you’ll need PDF’s fixed layout for printability or better accessibility. In these cases, you’ll need to convert EPUB to PDF.

Now you know how to convert EPUB to PDF!

If you’re looking to convert more of your files in different formats, Offdrive can do it for you. You’ll be able to convert PDF, DOC, TXT, and XLS to JPG, PNG, HTML, and more.

Head on over to our home page and convert your files now!

Posted in PDF
protecting a pdf

Protecting a PDF: Your Guide to PDF Passwords

Are you trying to keep a PDF to yourself? Or, do you only want to share it with a select few individuals?

The best way for protecting a PDF is to add password protection. This prevents anyone from opening your PDF without typing the password first. It works when you share the PDF online and offline.

This password-protection will also help prevent others from making copies or sharing your PDF with unauthorized persons.

Here’s what you need to know about how to password protect a PDF:

Protecting a PDF by Restricting Access

If you have Adobe Acrobat Reader you can easily add a password to any PDF.

Here’s what to do:

  • Open your PDF in the application
  • Go to File > Protect Using Password
  • A dialog box will open; you can choose to password-protect for viewing or editing
  • Type your desired password
  • Click Apply and you’ll receive confirmation of the protection

Advanced Password Protection

Now let’s look at adding advanced password protection to your PDFs. This offers an extra layer of protection on the PDF and its contents.

Here’s what to do:

  • Go to Tools > Protect > More Options > Encrypt with Password
  • Select the option to ‘Require A Password To Open The Document’
  • Type your password; the meter will assess your password’s strength
  • You can then choose the compatibility type based on the version of the recipient’s Acrobat Reader
    • The higher the compatibility, the more encrypted the PDF will be
  • Next, choose the encryption option for your PDF
    • All Document Contents: This prevents search engines from accessing the PDF’s metadata
    • All Document Contents Except Metadata: This encrypts the PDF’s content but still makes it possible for search engines to index it
    • Encrypt Only File Attachments: This prevents users from opening file attachments that are embedded in the PDF
  • Click OK and then reconfirm your password to complete the process

Protecting a PDF From Editing

This process prevents others from making any edits to your PDF. They’ll still be able to sign the PDF and fill out any fields.

Once again, open your PDF in Adobe Acrobat Reader.

Here’s what to do:

  • Go to File > Protect Using Password
  • Select the ‘Editing’ Option
  • Type your password in the first box
  • Confirm your password in the second box
  • Click Apply

You’ll receive a confirmation message that the PDF is now protected from editing. You can now send this to others without worrying about them making changes.

This is perfect for legal documents, white papers, and marketing materials with your PDF.

Protecting a PDF From Copying, Editing, and Printing

This process prevents users from editing, printing, and copying your PDF. This adds the most protection to your PDF. This is what gets used by larger corporations, government documents, and even academic institutions.

They can only change these settings if you give them your password. Start by opening your PDF with Adobe Acrobat Reader.

Here’s what to do:

  • Go to Tools > Protect > More Options > Encrypt With Password
  • Choose the option for ‘Restrict Editing And Printing Of The Document’
  • You can choose to allow or forbid printing, editing, copying as you choose
  • Type in your password
  • Select the Acrobat version from the Compatibility menu to encrypt the PDF
  • Click OK
  • Reconfirm your password and then click OK again

Let’s look a bit deeper at the options you have with this feature. 

Printing Allowed

With the printing allowed feature you have three options:

None: This prevents any printing of the PDF.

Low Resolution: This allows the PDF to get printed with low-resolution settings. The maximum amount for this option is 150 dpi.

High Resolution: This allows the PDF to get printed at any resolution above 150 dpi.

You can also select All if you don’t want to restrict printing. You can restrict copying without restricting printing and vice-versa.

Changes Allowed

This sets restrictions on what edits can get made to the PDF. Here are your options:

None

Restricts any edits including signing and filling fields or adding comments

Inserting, Deleting, And Rotating Pages

This allows your users to add additional pages to the PDF. They can also change the order of the pages and delete individual pages as they wish.

Filling In Form Fields And Signing Existing Signature Fields

This lets users fill in the form fields and sign the PDF. They can’t add comments or make edits to the PDF. There’s another option for filling fields, signing the PDF, and adding comments.

Any Except Extracting Pages

This lets users edit the PDF as they please. The only restriction is that they cannot extract individual pages to create a new PDF.

You also have the feature for Copying the PDF. With this feature there are two options to choose from:

Enable Copying Of Text, Images, And Other Content

This allows complete copying of any of the content of a PDF

Enable Text Access For Screen Reader Devices For The Visually Impaired

This lets visually-impaired readers use a screen reader to read the PDF. However, they cannot copy any of the contents of the PDF.

Copying the PDF doesn’t allow users to duplicate the PDF file. This can only get done if the PDF isn’t encrypted.

Storing Your PDFs

As a final step, it’s advisable to store your PDF on secure cloud storage servers or on password-protect hard drives. You can use an encrypted email service to send the files to others.

You should also ZIP PDF files within folders and give them unique names to protect their identity.

For complete security, you can send your PDF using instant messaging services like Signal. These will automatically delete the PDF from the recipient’s server after a set duration.

Keep Your PDFs Protected

Now that you know the steps for protecting a PDF you can make sure your PDF never gets to the wrong hands! 

Make sure you always protect important documents such as drafts, contracts, policies, trade secrets information, etc. 

If you run a business, share this guide with your staff so they know how to protect a PDF from access and editing by others. You should also check out our guide on how to compress your PDF.

Posted in PDF
pdf professional

Is a PDF Professional? The Proper Format for Work Submissions

When you’re submitting work to your employer, you would naturally second-guess every single element of the submission to ensure that it would meet their expectations. You may be wondering: is a PDF professional? 

PDF files are quite popular, and there are tons of reasons why it is considered very professional. Keep reading to learn why!

They Suit Job Applications

Have you ever tried submitting a job application without having a clear guideline of what file type they look for? If you are applying for a role that does not specify what they want, chances are they will either accept a PDF vs Word document.

A PDF file is universally compatible. No matter the laptop or computer you use, you will most often find an app that will open the file easily.

One of the main reasons why you should use a PDF for job applications is because the layout and formatting will not change, no matter where you look at it from. Your tables, graphs and more visual work will all look the way you want them to.

By using a PDF, you can rest well knowing that your resumes are formatted perfectly and that everything is easily accessible. 

You Can Edit Them

Using a PDF for workplace submissions is also suitable because people can edit the files easily. For instance, if you have a professional contract, a PDF allows you to easily fill and sign as necessary.

At the same time, businesses can use restrictions on what you can edit. This way, you can fill in your details without the other party worrying that you are editing the terms and conditions of the contract without their approval. This is contrary to a Word document, where you can edit the whole document when permission is granted. 

A PDF is Portable

Another element that makes a PDF professional is its portability. If you’ve ever tried to access or edit a Word document and saw a notification that says you don’t have certain fonts on your computer, or if you’re trying to open some slides but have difficulty in loading the images, portability will be a big plus for you. 

A PDF, contrary to other file types, will allow viewers (no matter what is installed on their computer) to see the file in the exact same way. Regardless of fonts, images and formatting, you can be assured that a PDF will maintain the quality and presentation of your workplace submission. 

PDF Files Are Secure

What happens if your files fall into the wrong hands?

A lot of businesses have started using PDF files because they offer more security. These files can be password protected or sent to other entities with limited access (which means the other party cannot make changes or can only make a few changes). 

This is highly useful because you can keep your files secure from data hackers or unauthorized people attempting to access more sensitive information. 

PDF Files Are Compact

Imagine if you can compile loads of information into a file without taking up too much space on your device. With PDF files, this is a reality. You can compress information into a small file size so that plenty of people can access the document without worrying about it filling up their storage. 

This is easily done by compressing on Adobe’s website. Simply upload the file and have it compressed to a suitable file size for you. 

This is especially beneficial for companies and workplace submissions, as workers will have to deal with tons of files on a daily basis. 

You Can Easily Convert PDF Files

If, on the off-chance that the other party cannot access your PDF file, it’s tremendously simple for them to convert the file into suitable file types. They can simply go online, search for a conversion tool, and essentially all of these tools will be able to convert PDF files. 

This way, if your employer or hiring company hasn’t specified what document form they accept, submitting a PDF file is always a safe bet. This is because, even if they can’t open it, they can easily find a way to do so. 

PDF Files Are Suitable for Teamwork

Another important reason that enhances a PDF file’s compatibility in the workplace is that they are great for team collaboration projects. You can all annotate the same document in a structured way so that everyone’s comments and requests can be easily seen.

By annotating, you are also not changing the initial information included in the document, which ensures that everyone gets to read and view the same things without deleting another person’s input. The days of taking out a highlighter and a pen to go through important documents in a meeting are over. Now, you can collaborate easily with your teams without having to be in one place to brainstorm. 

Is a PDF Professional? The Answer is Yes

Overall, a PDF file is perhaps as professional as file types go. They are one of the most popular formats to be used in workplaces and in daily life. There are plenty of reasons that make a PDF professional.

This includes its accessibility, the ability to edit and collaborate with other team members, the reduced file sizes, the security, and the ability to easily convert the file into other types when necessary. 

When in doubt of the file to use, a PDF will always be a safe bet. Convert files with us today!

Posted in PDF