What does PDF mean and how do I save a file as a PDF? (2024)

PDFstands for "portable document format". Essentially, the format is usedwhen you need to save files that cannot be modified but still need to be easily shared and printed.Today most devices have a version of Adobe Reader or can open a PDF in an Internet Browser.

To save a filein .pdf format:

1. Open the document you want to save as a .pdf
2. Click the File tab
3. Click Save As (choosing Save As keeps your original version and allows you to save an additional copy in another file format.)
4. In the File Name box, enter a name for the file if you haven't already
5. Click the drop down arrowin the Save as Type box and click PDF (*.pdf) - If you don't see this as an option in the menu, make sure you have the free Adobe Reader software installed on your computer.
6. If you want the file to open immediately in the selected format after saving, select the Open file after publishing check box
7. Click Options box for other available options
8. Click Save

**You may also see an option to "Export" your document/file to a PDF in your File menu. You can use that option instead of following the "save as" instructions if you prefer. In addition, some programs allow you to choose Print and then select Save as PDF as the printer. Each of these methods will result in a new file in the PDF format.

It is possible to open a .pdf in Microsoft Word to convert it back to the .docx format and edit it. The following dialog box appears: