Reducing Size of a PDF

Issue/Question

How can I reduce the size of a PDF file?

Environment

  • Adobe Acrobat DC

Cause

PDF files that are created in or exported from other applications may contain full-quality images that could cause the file to become extremely large.

Resolution

 Note: The professional version of Adobe Acrobat DC is required.

Method 1: Use the Optimize Function

  1. Open the document in Adobe Acrobat DC.
  2. Click Tools.
  3. Click Optimize.
  4. Click Reduce File Size on the toolbar.
  5. Click OK.
  6. Name the reduced size file, then click Save.

Method 2: Print to PDF

  1. Click File.
  2. Click Print.
  3. Choose Adobe PDF as the printer.
  4. Click Properties.
  5. Set the Default Settings select box to Standard.
  6. Click Print.
  7. Name the printed file, then click Save.

Method 3: Export as Images

Exporting PDF pages as images works particularly well at reducing the size of files with a significant amount of line art, such as CAD drawings or blueprints, however, items and text within the PDF will not be selectable.

  1. Click File.
  2. Click Export To .
  3. Click Image .
  4. Choose an image file type, TIFF is recommended.
  5. Name the image file, then click Save.
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