How to Adjust Print Area in PDF

PDFs are a popular file format for sharing and distributing documents. However, sometimes you may need to adjust the print area of a PDF to fit the content on the page correctly. This can be a daunting task for many people who are not familiar with the PDF format. In this blog, we will provide you with easy-to-follow methods to adjust the print area in a PDF. Whether you are using a Mac, Windows, or an online tool, we have got you covered.

Video Tutorial:

Why You Need to Adjust Print Area in PDF

There are several reasons why you may need to adjust the print area in a PDF. One common reason is when the content does not fit within the boundaries of the printed page. This could be because the margins are too wide or because the content is just too large. Adjusting the print area ensures that the content is centered and fits correctly on the page.

Another reason why you may need to adjust the print area is when printing a PDF for a specific purpose. For example, you may want to print a PDF as a booklet or as a poster. In these cases, adjusting the print area is essential to ensure the final product is of high quality.

Method 1: Using Adobe Acrobat Pro DC

Adobe Acrobat Pro DC is one of the best tools for working with PDFs. It offers a range of useful features, including the ability to adjust the print area in a PDF. Here’s how to adjust the print area in a PDF using Adobe Acrobat Pro DC:

1. Open the PDF file in Adobe Acrobat Pro DC.
2. Click on the "Print Production" tab located in the right-hand pane.
3. Click on "Set Page Boxes" and select "Crop Box."
4. Click and drag the handles on the crop box to change the print area.
5. Click "OK" to save the changes.

Pros:

– Able to adjust print area with precision
– High-quality output
– Allows for numerous output settings

Cons:

– Adobe Acrobat Pro DC is costly
– Could be intimidating for beginners

Method 2: Using Preview on Mac

Preview is the default PDF viewer on Mac computers. It also offers some basic features for editing PDFs. Here’s how to adjust the print area in a PDF using Preview on Mac:

1. Open the PDF file in Preview.
2. Click "File" and select "Print."
3. Click "Show Details."
4. Select the "Scale" option and enter a custom percentage.
5. Adjust the margins to adjust the print area.
6. Click "Print" to print the adjusted PDF.

Pros:

– Free to use
– Simple and user-friendly
– Basic editing features available

Cons:

– Limited editing features
– Only available on Mac computers

Method 3: Using SmallPDF Online Tool

SmallPDF is a popular online tool for working with PDFs. It offers a range of features, including the ability to adjust the print area in a PDF. Here’s how to adjust the print area in a PDF using SmallPDF:

1. Go to smallpdf.com.
2. Select "PDF Editor" from the list of tools.
3. Upload the PDF file into the editor.
4. Click on the "Crop" tool in the right-hand pane.
5. Click and drag the handles on the crop box to change the print area.
6. Click "Apply" to save the changes.
7. Download the adjusted PDF file.

Pros:

– Free to use
– No installation or download required
– Secure and easy-to-use interface

Cons:

– Limited editing features
– Requires an internet connection
– Not as precise as desktop applications

What to Do If You Can’t Adjust Print Area in PDF?

If you are unable to adjust the print area in a PDF using these methods, here are some fixes you can try:

– Check the printer settings: Ensure that the printer settings are set to the correct options. For example, the paper size and orientation should be correct.
– Check the PDF file: Check if the PDF file is corrupted or has any formatting issues. Try saving the PDF with a different name and using this new file to adjust the print area.
– Use a different tool: If you are having trouble with one method, try using a different tool to adjust the print area. For example, if you are using Preview on Mac, try Adobe Acrobat Pro DC instead.

Bonus Tip: Save Paper When Printing PDFs

Printing PDFs can often use a lot of paper, especially if the content spills over onto multiple pages. To save paper when printing PDFs, use the "Two Pages per Sheet" option in the printer settings. This merges two pages into one and can save up to 50% of paper.

5 FAQs

Q1: Can I adjust the print area in a PDF using Microsoft Word?

A: No, Microsoft Word is not a suitable tool for adjusting print areas in a PDF. It is a word-processing tool and does not have advanced PDF editing features.

Q2: Is it possible to adjust the print area in a PDF using free online tools?

A: Yes, there are many free online tools available that offer basic PDF editing features, including adjusting the print area.

Q3: Can I use the Adobe Acrobat Reader to adjust print areas in a PDF?

A: No, Adobe Acrobat Reader is a PDF viewer and does not have advanced PDF editing features.

Q4: Why isn’t my PDF file printing correctly?

A: This could be due to several reasons, including incorrect printer settings, formatting issues in the PDF file, or a corrupted file. Try adjusting the printer settings or saving the PDF with a different name.

Q5: Can I use these methods to adjust the print area in other document formats?

A: No, these methods are specifically for adjusting the print area in PDFs. Other document formats may require different methods.

Final Thoughts

Adjusting the print area in a PDF can be a challenging task, especially if you are not familiar with the PDF format. However, with the methods outlined in this blog, you should be able to adjust the print area with ease. Remember to always check the printer settings and PDF file for any issues that may be causing the problem. With a little patience and practice, you will be adjusting print areas in PDFs like a pro in no time.