How to create PDF files

A PDF (portable document format) is commonly used to share documents and files. Although you can also create PDF forms and edit these files with the right apps, these primarily read-only files are easily accessible and can be opened on most devices. Here’s how to create a PDF file to quickly and easily share files and documents.

Read more: How to save a webpage as a PDF file

You can use the Print function on any program, including browsers, to create a PDF file. On most apps and programs, go to Print, and under the Printer options (which could also be called Print destination), select Save as PDF. The steps might be a little different, but the idea is Print > Save as PDF.

Some programs and apps have a few different options you should be aware of. Of course, the print option will work with every app/platform, except mobile, mentioned below too.

• Windows apps: On Microsoft programs like the Office apps, Edge, Paint, Photos, and others, you will see Microsoft Print to PDF as the option. Other third-party apps and browsers will show Save as PDF as well.
• Microsoft Word: When you are ready to save a document, go to File > Save as > Browse(to select a folder), and under the Save as type options, select PDF. Depending on your Microsoft Word version, you might also see a more convenient Save as Adobe PDF option.

• Google Docs: If you use Google Docs, you can create a PDF copy of your document by clicking on File > Download and selecting PDF document (.pdf). You can use this method on desktop and mobile.

• Android: On Android, you are looking for Share > Print. In some apps, you can find Share by opening the menu options using the three vertical dots icon. You can long-press on an image or file on Google Photos and other apps to bring up the Share menu. Go to Share > Print and select Save as PDF as the printer option.

Read more: The best PDF readers apps for Android

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