How to convert a PDF file to searchable?

To convert PDFs into searchable documents quickly and easily, you can use several methods depending on your preferences and available tools. Here are some options:

 Adobe Acrobat Pro DC

Steps:

• Open the PDF in Adobe Acrobat Pro DC.

• Click on "Scan & OCR" in the right pane.

• Select "Recognize Text" and choose "In This File".

• Choose your desired language and click "Recognize Text".

• Save the document as a searchable PDF.

 Online OCR Tools

Tools: Online OCR, Smallpdf, Soda PDF

Steps:

• Visit the website of the online OCR tool.

• Upload your PDF file.

• Choose the output format (usually PDF or Word).

• Start the OCR process and download the converted, searchable document.

 Google Drive

Steps:

• Upload the PDF to your Google Drive.
• Right-click on the PDF and select "Open with" > "Google Docs".
• Google Docs will automatically perform OCR on the PDF and open it as an editable, searchable document.
• Download the document as a PDF again if needed.

Microsoft Word

Steps:

• Open Microsoft Word
• Drag and drop the PDF into Word or open it using "File" > "Open".
• Word will convert the PDF into an editable document, which will also make it searchable.
• Save it as a PDF again if you need to maintain the format.

Preview (Mac Users)

Steps:

• Open the PDF in Preview.

• Select "File" > "Export".

• Choose PDF as the format and check the "Quartz Filter" option.

• Select "Create Searchable PDF".

• Save the file.

 Dedicated OCR Software

Software: ABBYY FineReader, Nuance Power PDF

Steps:

• Install the OCR software on your computer.

• Open the PDF file in the software.

• Select the OCR function and configure the settings (language, output format).

• Run the OCR process and save the file as a searchable PDF.

Each of these methods is straightforward, and the best one for you will depend on the tools you have access to and your specific needs.