PDF tools: choose an operation and check the result
PDFs are widely used to share paginated documents, although display can vary between readers. This guide explains which ConverteArq tool may suit common tasks and what to verify. Processing depends on the tool: some operations run in the browser; others upload a file to the server. Check each tool page for limits and privacy details before selecting a document.
Turn images into a PDF
Photos of forms, receipts or portfolio pages can be easier to share in one PDF. The image-to-PDF guide guide explains page order, orientation, margins and checks. A PDF made from photos still contains images; the text is not automatically selectable or searchable.
Compress a PDF carefully
The PDF compressor tool currently accepts PDFs up to 100 MB and sends the file to the server for temporary processing. The uploaded file and generated copy are deleted after processing or an error. Compression may not make every file smaller. Keep the original, compare sizes, and check pages, text, images and digital signatures. See the PDF size-reduction guide guide for other options.
Join, split and rearrange pages
Use merge-PDF tool to combine PDFs in a chosen order. Check the available PDF tools and their limits for other page operations. Confirm page order and orientation in the finished file before sending it.
Extract text and recognize scans
A PDF with a text layer may allow text to be copied or extracted. A file made only of scanned page images needs optical character recognition (OCR). The OCR guide guide explains how to check OCR against the page; errors may affect codes, amounts or tables.
Protect and share a PDF
A password can restrict opening a PDF, but it does not replace access control for the file. Read the PDF password-protection guide guide, keep the password safe, and test the protected copy before sharing it. If the password is lost, you may not be able to open the document.
Choose a tool for the task
- I have several photos or loose pages: Use the image-to-PDF guide, then check page order and readability. image-to-PDF guide
- I need to combine PDF files: Use the merge-PDF tool and verify the final order. merge-PDF tool
- The PDF is too large to send: Try the compressor or read the size-reduction guide; compare the result with the recipient’s actual limit. PDF compressor
- I need to copy words from a scanned page: Use OCR and compare important text with the original. OCR guide
- The file contains confidential information: Check processing and privacy details before uploading; consider software on your own device. PDF password-protection guide
Three useful habits
- Keep an unchanged copy of the original.
- Open the result and inspect pages, small text and tables before sending or printing.
- Name the result clearly so you can distinguish it from the source.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need to install an app?
No app installation is needed to open the tool pages. Processing varies: some operations happen in your browser and others upload the file to the server. Check the relevant page.
Are the tools free?
The tools described here are available without an account or payment. Specific file and service limits may apply.
Is there a file-size limit?
Yes. Each tool lists its current limit. The PDF compressor currently accepts files up to 100 MB.
Will compression always make my PDF smaller?
No. Results depend on the document and its images and resources. Compare the output with the original and keep the smaller usable copy.
Can I search a scanned PDF?
Only if it has a text layer. A scan may need OCR, and important details should be checked against the image.
Does a password make a PDF completely secure?
A password can restrict opening the file, but it is only one safeguard. Protect the password and share the document through a suitable channel.
More tools and guides
PDF tools: choose an operation and check the result — Português (Brasil)