Creating and reading PDF files

In short: PDF is a file format that looks the same everywhere. You read it in the browser or a PDF reader and create it via “Print → Save as PDF”.

In more detail: PDFs suit invoices, contracts and job applications because layout and fonts are preserved. They are not as easy to change as Word documents.

In Depth

• Reading: Double-click usually opens the browser or reader. Ctrl + F searches text.
• Creating from Word: File → Save as → PDF, or Print → “Microsoft Print to PDF”.
• Merging/splitting: With PDF tools (for example in reader programs or online services; do not upload sensitive documents to unknown sites).
• Fillable forms: Click the fields and type.
• Signing: With the reader’s signature function or a scanned signature.
• Size: Compress large PDFs before sending.

See also: Writing and formatting text, Sending and opening email attachments