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This involves combining all the different layers (annotations, text, images, etc.) on the PDF into a single layer that can't be changed ( except with a PDF editor).

When you flatten a PDF you are rendering the PDF and optimizing it so it prints better, the size is smaller, and interactivity is removed. This is why flattening of a PDF files should always be done at the end of your work. Usually, the contents (text, markup, images, annotations, form fields, etc.) of a PDF file are usually in different layers.įlattening a PDF makes the contents more difficult to change or edit. The best way to flatten a PDF is by using a PDF editor.įlattening a PDF combines all the contents in a PDF into one single layer, and locks them into place in the file.Windows users: Microsoft Print to PDF virtual printer come built-in your computer by default. This method works on almost all programs that can view and print PDFs. An easy & free way to flatten a PDF is by using a virtual printer to 'Print to PDF'.Keep an original version of your PDF file just in case.Flattened PDFs are more challenging to edit.Flattening usually can't be undone, so keep it as your last step before printing or sharing a file.Read on to find the best one for you, or use our Table of Contents and jump to the spot you need. We've covered the best methods for flattening PDFs. But how do you flatten PDF a PDF?įortunately, it's easy to flatten a PDF file, offline, online, and even for free. Or maybe you needed to send a fillable PDF form to someone else, but wanted to be sure that the contents would be secure.įlattening a PDF improves security and prepares PDF files for printing by optimizing the contents and reducing the file size. If you work with PDF files then you've probably needed to print a PDF at one point.

This file cannot be previewed adobe acrobat 9 pro