A PDF file is a multi-platform document created by Adobe Acrobat or another PDF application. The PDF format is commonly used for saving documents and publications in a standard format that can be viewed on multiple platforms. In many cases, PDF files are created from existing documents instead of from scratch.

PDF file open in Adobe Acrobat Reader DC You may encounter PDF files in a variety of ways, whether it be downloading a document from a website or receiving a document from a co-worker or friend via email. The files may contain text, images, forms, annotations, outlines, and other document-related data. The PDF files also preserve fonts and formatting electronically across multiple platforms and appear the same on the screen as when printed on paper. You can view PDF files with a large number of applications, including Adobe Reader, LibreOffice, Apple Pages, and web browsers, such as Google Chrome and Microsoft Edge. PDF files can also be edited with various programs, most often with Adobe Acrobat, a commercial software program. A wide variety of programs may be used to create PDF files, including word processors, image editors, and PDF file utilities, like Adobe Acrobat. You may also create PDF files from documents using the Print dialog in Windows and macOS. In Windows, select File → Print... or click the printer icon to open the Print dialog. Then, select "Print to PDF" in the "Destination" dropdown menu and click Print. In macOS, select Print... from the application's File menu, then choose "Save as PDF" from the PDF dropdown menu in the lower-left corner of the window. NOTE: View the PDF definition for more information.