In terms of versatility, PDF files are actually a lot more flexible than you might think, and it is perfectly possible to merge multiple files down into just one easily shareable document.
Of course you might not know how to do this, let alone understand why it is necessary in certain situations, so here is a primer on all the major talking points relating to merging PDF files.
What is a PDF?
Let’s start with the basics; PDF is a file format used for creating documents that can contain text as well as images and vector graphics, as required.
Created by Adobe in the early 1990s, today it is the standard for formal business communications in the digital era.
How to merge PDF files online
The good news is that if you have more than one PDF document and you want to combine them, you can easily merge PDF files online using browser-based tools offered by reputable websites.
These tools are not only free to use, but give you the flexibility to rearrange the pages, delete any you do not need and thus determine the exact shape and content of the output file.
You will need to upload the files you want to merge in order to achieve this, but online tools are fit for small and large merging projects alike.
How to merge PDF files offline
If you happen to be using a Mac, merging PDFs can be done using the basic capabilities of the Preview application, although you will not have the same level of control over the end results as you would if using online tools.
There are premium merging solutions for Mac and Windows alike, with Adobe’s own Acrobat Reader being the best example of these. It all comes down to whether you think it is worth subscribing to this software suite to complete the file merging that is on the cards.
Why merging PDF files makes sense
So now that you know how to merge PDFs, why would you choose to take this route in the first place? Well, it depends on your needs of course, but most people should be able to appreciate the added convenience that comes with condensing several separate files down into just one. This is not only a means of making important information sharable without making the recipients jump through hoops to get the data they need, but also helps to minimize the size of the file you are sending out.
The practical benefits should be obvious, but there is also good sense in merging PDF files from the point of view of professionalism. You will look far more competent to others both within your organization and outside of it if you do not bombard them with several files when really all they need is one, concise document to complete whatever interaction or transaction you are involved in.
Likewise you can eliminate irrelevant information by removing the unwanted and unnecessary pages during the merging process, so it can be seen as a type of broad strokes editing for your files. This is productive and efficient, as well as being more conducive to effective collaboration, especially at a time when more people are working remotely and thus need to share and work together on files digitally.
Lastly, converting other document formats to PDF is straightforward using the same tools mentioned above, and so you can therefore merge several files from different sources if you switch them to PDF.
All of this means that anyone who uses PDFs regularly for work should seriously consider embracing the benefits of merging documents.