Scanning documents has become a common practice in offices and homes. The scanned files can be saved in various formats such as JPG or PNG, but one of the most important formats is the PDF. PDF files are easy to open, share, and print, and they retain the original document format. If you are wondering how to change a scan file to PDF, this blog will provide you with four different methods to do so.
Video Tutorial:
The Challenge of Changing Scan File to PDF
One of the biggest challenges of changing a scan file to PDF is ensuring that the quality of the document is retained. Scanners may not always produce high-quality scans, and the converted PDF file may end up with poor quality. Another challenge is that different scanners have different software for scanning and converting files into different formats. So, you may need to have the right software or application to undertake this task.
Method 1: Use Adobe Acrobat DC
Adobe Acrobat DC is a well-known program for creating, editing, and viewing PDF files. Here are the steps to follow to convert a scan file to PDF using Adobe Acrobat DC:
1. Open Adobe Acrobat DC and click on the Create PDF tool
2. Choose the scanned file that you want to convert
3. Select the options that match your document type, orientation, and size
4. Click on the Create button to convert the file to PDF
Pros: Adobe Acrobat DC is a reliable and easy-to-use program that ensures high-quality conversion of scanned files to PDF format.
Cons: Adobe Acrobat DC is a paid software that may not be available to everyone.
Method 2: Use Microsoft Word
Microsoft Word is a widely used application in offices and homes. Here are the steps to follow to convert a scan file to PDF using Microsoft Word:
1. Open Microsoft Word and click on the File tab
2. Click on Open and select the scanned file that you want to convert
3. Click on File again and choose Export
4. Click on Create PDF/XPS Document and click on Create PDF/XPS
5. Name the PDF file and choose the folder where you want to save it
Pros: Microsoft Word is a commonly used application that is readily available to most people.
Cons: The quality of the converted PDF file may not be as good as other methods, and the process may take longer.
Method 3: Use Online Converters
There are many online converters available that can convert scanned files to PDF format. One such online converter is Smallpdf. Here are the steps to follow to convert a scan file to PDF using Smallpdf:
1. Open Smallpdf.com and click on the Choose File button
2. Select the scanned file that you want to convert
3. Wait for the file to be uploaded and click on Convert to PDF
4. Choose the options that match your document type, orientation, and size
5. Click on Download to save the converted PDF file
Pros: Online converters are free, and Smallpdf is easy to use.
Cons: The quality of the converted PDF file may not be as good as other methods, and you may need to have a fast internet connection.
Method 4: Use Adobe Scan App
Adobe Scan App is a free mobile application that enables you to scan documents and convert them to PDF format. Here are the steps to follow to convert a scan file to PDF using Adobe Scan App:
1. Download and install Adobe Scan App on your mobile phone
2. Launch the app and click on the Camera button
3. Position the phone camera over the document that you want to scan
4. Wait for the app to automatically detect the document and click on the Capture button
5. Click on the PDF icon and wait for the file to be converted
Pros: Adobe Scan App is free and easy to use. It allows you to scan documents and convert them to PDF format on the go.
Cons: The quality of the converted PDF file may not be as good as other methods, and you may require a smartphone with a high-quality camera.
Why Failed to Change Scan File to PDF
There may be different reasons why you may fail to change a scan file to PDF. Here are some common reasons:
1. Poor quality scan
2. The scanned file is not in a supported format
3. The program or application used for conversion is not compatible with your computer or device.
To fix these issues, you can try using a different scanning software, ensuring that the scan file is in a supported format, or using a different method for conversion.
FAQs
Q: How can I ensure that the quality of the converted PDF file is good?
A: To ensure that the quality of the converted PDF file is good, you can use a high-quality scanner, adjust the scanning settings, and use a reliable conversion method.
Q: Can I convert multiple scanned files to PDF at once?
A: Yes, you can convert multiple scanned files to PDF at once using Adobe Acrobat DC or online converters like Smallpdf.
Q: Can I edit the content of the converted PDF file?
A: Yes, you can use Adobe Acrobat DC or other PDF editing software to edit the content of the converted PDF file.
Q: How can I ensure that the converted PDF file is accessible to people with disabilities?
A: To ensure that the converted PDF file is accessible to people with disabilities, you can use Adobe Acrobat DC or other conversion software that can make the file accessible.
Q: How long does it take to convert a scan file to PDF?
A: The time it takes to convert a scan file to PDF will depend on the size and quality of the scanned file, and the method used for conversion. Some methods take longer than others, but generally, the process should not take more than a few minutes.
Q: Is it possible to convert handwritten documents to PDF format?
A: Yes, it is possible to convert handwritten documents to PDF format using a scanner or mobile scanning applications like Adobe Scan App.
Conclusion
Converting scan files to PDF format is a crucial task for anyone who wants to store or share scanned documents easily. There are different methods for converting scan files to PDF, including using Adobe Acrobat DC, Microsoft Word, online converters, and mobile scanning applications like Adobe Scan App. Each method has its pros and cons, but with the right software or application, you can easily convert your scan files to PDF format.