Welcome to the world of Mac users! Are you in search of an efficient and easy method for editing your PDF files on your Mac? If yes, you are in the right place. Not many people are aware of the fact that Mac devices have an inbuilt PDF editor, which makes it easier to edit and customize PDF files effortlessly. This article will explain the 12 best steps to follow on “how to edit PDF files on a Mac.” Trust us; you will never regret learning the simple tips and tricks that will make editing your PDF files a breeze. So, let’s dive right in!
Steps to Edit PDF Files on a Mac
Step 1: Open your PDF file with the Preview App
The preview App is one of the essential features of the Mac operating system, which allows users to view multiple file formats. To edit a PDF file using Preview;
• Locate the file’s location on your Mac and double-click on the PDF file to open it automatically in the Preview App.
• Alternatively, right-click on the PDF file, select the “Open with” option and click on “Preview.”
Step 2: Add Texts and Notes on PDF Files
Sometimes, users may want to add extra information, notes, or annotations to a PDF file. Preview App makes this easy to achieve.
• To add text, click on the “A” icon from the toolbar and select where you want to add your text on the PDF file.
• To add a note, click on the “Markup Toolbar” and select the note tool, then place it where you want the note to appear on the PDF file.
Step 3: Edit Text on PDF Files
Editing PDF text on a Mac is a straightforward process with the Preview App.
• Click on the text you want to edit in the preview app, erase the text you want to change, and type in your new text.
• You can resize or reposition the new text by selecting it and dragging it to the preferred location on the PDF file.
Step 4: Add Images on PDF Files
With Preview App, users can add images to PDF files.
• Click on the “Markup Toolbar,” select the “Nova Symbol (+),” and select the image icon.
• After uploading your image, you can reposition it and resize it to fit the PDF file by dragging and dropping.
Step 5: Crop PDF Pages
The Preview App can help to crop PDF pages to the desired size or shape.
• Click on the “Markup Toolbar” and select the Crop function (square with dotted lines).
• Adjust the dotted lines to crop the PDF page to the desired size, and click on “Done.”
Step 6: Merge or Split Pages in PDF Files
Preview App makes it easy to merge or split pages in PDF files.
• To merge, open the PDF files you want to merge, click on View > Thumbnails to view the thumbnails.
• Hold down the “Command” button and select the pages you want to merge, and then click the “Merge” button. You can then save the merged PDF file.
Step 7: Rotate Pages in PDF Files
Rotating pages on PDF files on a Mac is a simple process.
• Click on the “Markup Toolbar” and select the rotation icon.
• Choose the direction you want to rotate the page and click on “Done.”
Step 8: Save Edited PDF Files
After editing your PDF file, you have to save the changes to avoid losing them.
• Click on “File” and select “Save” to save the edited PDF file.
Step 9: Export Different File Formats
Preview App can export PDF files to various file formats.
• Click on “File,” select “Export” and then choose the desired file format from the dropdown menu.
Step 10: Use Third-party PDF Editors
Mac users can also use third-party PDF editors for PDF files editing.
• Some of the popular third-party PDF editors for Mac include Adobe Acrobat Pro DC, PDF Expert, and Infix PDF Editor.
Step 11: Use the Terminal App
Using the Terminal App is another way of editing PDF files on a Mac.
• Launch the Terminal App, type in “pdftk” (without the quotations), followed by your PDF file’s location and the new file’s name.
Step 12: Regularly Backup Files
As a Mac user, regularly backing up your files is essential, including your edited PDF files.
• You can use iCloud, Time Machine, or external hard drives to backup edited PDF files regularly.
Explanation for How to Edit PDF on a Mac Steps
Step 1: Open Your PDF File with Preview App
To start editing your PDF file on your Mac, you need to open the file using the Preview App. The Preview App is an inbuilt feature of the Mac operating system that allows users to view multiple file formats, including PDF files.
Step 2: Add Texts and Notes on PDF Files
Adding extra information, notes, or annotations on a PDF file is necessary, especially when sharing the file with other users. The Preview App can help you to add text and notes on PDF files.
Step 3: Edit Text on PDF Files
Editing PDF text on a Mac is effortless with the Preview App. Users can edit, delete, and add new text to PDF files easily.
Step 4: Add Images on PDF Files
The Preview App allows users to add images to PDF files. Users can resize and reposition the images according to their preference.
Step 5: Crop PDF Pages
Cropping PDF pages to the desired size or shape is crucial when sharing a PDF file with other users. With the Preview App, you can crop PDF pages easily.
Step 6: Merge or Split Pages in PDF Files
Merging or splitting pages in a PDF file may be necessary, especially when editing a large PDF file. The Preview App can help you merge or split pages in PDF files.
Step 7: Rotate Pages in PDF Files
Rotating pages in a PDF file may be necessary, especially when the page orientation is incorrect. The Preview App can help you rotate pages in PDF files in a preferred direction.
Step 8: Save Edited PDF Files
After editing PDF files, it is mandatory to save the changes to avoid losing the edits. Users can use the Preview App to save edited PDF files.
Step 9: Export Different File Formats
The Preview App can export PDF files to different file formats, such as JPEG, PNG, and Docx. This feature is crucial when sharing PDF files with users who do not have a PDF reader.
Step 10: Use Third-party PDF Editors
In addition to using the Preview App, users can use third-party PDF editors for Mac to edit PDF files. Some popular third-party PDF editors for Mac include Adobe Acrobat Pro DC, PDF Expert, and Infix PDF Editor.
Step 11: Use the Terminal App
Using the Terminal App, Mac users can edit PDF files, including merging, splitting, and encrypting PDF files. Users must have basic knowledge of the Terminal App to use this method.
Step 12: Regularly Backup Files
Backing up PDF files regularly is necessary, especially when editing critical PDF files. Users can use iCloud, Time Machine, or external hard drives to backup edited PDF files regularly.
The Best Tips and Tricks for Editing PDF Files on a Mac
Tip 1: Use Keyboard Shortcuts
Using keyboard shortcuts enhances your PDF file editing speed and efficiency. For example, the “Command + A” shortcut selects all the text in a PDF file.
Tip 2: Use Optical Character Recognition (OCR) Software
Using OCR software allows users to convert scanned PDF files to editable text files, making it easier to edit such files.
Tip 3: Set Default App for PDF Files
Setting the Preview App as your default PDF file opens the file automatically with the Preview App, making it easier to edit the file as desired.
Tip 4: Use Drag and Drop Function
Using the drag and drop function allows users to move images and text in the PDF file to preferred locations.
Tip 5: Use Preview App’s Digital Signature Feature
Preview App has a digital signature feature accessible under the Markup toolbar, making it easier to add digital signatures on PDF files.
Tip 6: Lock the PDF File after Editing
Locking a PDF file after editing is necessary to prevent unauthorized access and editing of the file by third-party users.
Tip 7: Use Annotation Tools
Annotation tools such as highlighters, strike-through tools, and underline make it easier to manipulate the text in a PDF file.
Tip 8: Use PDF Merge and Split Software
PDF Merge and Split software such as “PDFsam Basic” and “PDF Shaper” make it easier to merge and split PDF files, respectively.
Tip 9: Use PDF Password Protection
PDF password protection keeps your PDF file safe from unauthorized access, ensuring that only you have access to your file.
Tip 10: Use PDF Editor with OCR Function
PDF editor software with OCR function makes it easier to convert scanned PDF files to editable text files without losing the original format.
In conclusion, editing PDF files on a Mac is easy and straightforward when using the Preview App. However, you can use third-party PDF editors, the Terminal App, or various other tips and tricks for efficient and easy PDF files editing on a Mac. With regular backup, password protection, and other measures, users can ensure the safety and confidentiality of their edited PDF files.
Advantages and Disadvantages of Editing PDF on Mac
Advantages
1. Compatibility: Macs are inherently designed to have PDF editing software integrated into their operating systems, making it easy for users to work on a PDF document without having to look for third-party tools.
2. User-Friendly: Macs are known for their user-friendly interface and PDF editing software on Macs is no different. With an intuitive design, it is easy to navigate and make changes to a PDF document.
3. Security: PDF editing software on Macs offer advanced security features such as password protection and encryption that keeps the documents safe from unauthorized access and potential threats.
4. Editing Capabilities: PDF editing software on Macs are equipped with powerful editing tools that enable users to edit text, images, graphics, and even add notes and comments to the PDF document.
5. Efficiency: With PDF editing tools on Macs, users can easily edit PDF documents on the go, making it a time-efficient way to work, especially for those who are always on the move.
6. Reduced Paperwork: With Mac’s PDF editing tools, users can easily annotate and add digital signatures to PDF documents, reducing the amount of paperwork required.
7. Accessibility: With the built-in PDF editing tools that come with every Mac, users can access and edit PDF documents without having to pay extra for third-party tools or subscription services.
8. Cost-Efficient: With the free PDF editing tools that come with every Mac, users can save on the cost of purchasing separate tools for PDF editing and conversion.
9. Integrates with Other Apps: PDF editing software on Macs can easily integrate with other apps such as Pages, Notes, and Mail, making it easy to transfer information from one app to another.
10. Eco-Friendly: Using Mac’s PDF editing tools helps reduce the use of paper and contributes to a more eco-friendly work environment.
Disadvantages
1. Limited Features: While Mac’s PDF editing tools are sufficient for basic editing, they do not offer advanced features like OCR, batch conversion, or advanced form processing that are available in some third-party PDF editing software.
2. Compatibility: Compatibility issues may arise when sharing PDF documents edited on Macs with users who are not using Macs or do not have PDF editing software on their computer.
3. Export Formats: Mac’s PDF editing tools offer limited export formats, which may be a disadvantage for those who require the output in a specific format.
4. UI Limitations: While the UI of Mac’s PDF editing tools are user-friendly, the lack of customization options may be a disadvantage for some users who desire more control over the appearance and configuration of the software.
5. Storage: Mac’s PDF editing software may require a significant amount of storage space, especially for large files or multiple documents, which can be a disadvantage for those with limited storage capacity.
6. Updates: Updates to Mac’s PDF editing software may alter the software’s functionality or user interface, making it more difficult for users who have grown accustomed to previous versions.
7. Learning Curve: While Mac’s PDF editing software is designed to be user-friendly, there may be a small learning curve for users who are unfamiliar with the software or are new to PDF editing.
8. Performance: Mac’s PDF editing software may experience performance issues when editing large or complex PDF documents, which may result in lag time or freezing of the software.
9. Ads: Some third-party PDF editing software may be available for free but may come with ads that can be a nuisance to users.
10. Cost: Advanced PDF editing software that is not included with Macs may come at a cost, which can be a disadvantage for those who require sophisticated features for their PDF editing needs.
FAQ
1. How do I edit a PDF on a Mac?
You can edit a PDF file on a Mac using a PDF editor tool such as Adobe Acrobat DC, Preview, or PDFpen. Simply open the PDF file in the tool and make the necessary edits to the text or images.
2. Is there a free PDF editor for Mac?
Yes, there are some free PDF editors for Mac, such as Preview, PDFsam Basic, and GIMP.
3. Can I edit PDF files in Preview?
Yes, you can edit PDF files in Preview by clicking on the “Show Markup Toolbar” button and selecting the “Text” or “Shape” tool to add or edit text or images.
4. How do I delete pages from a PDF on a Mac?
You can delete pages from a PDF on a Mac using a PDF editor tool such as Adobe Acrobat DC or PDFpen. Select the pages you want to delete and click on the “delete” button.
5. How do I add pages to a PDF on a Mac?
You can add pages to a PDF on a Mac using a PDF editor tool such as Adobe Acrobat DC or PDFpen. Simply select the page you want to add and click on the “add” button.
6. How do I merge PDF files on a Mac?
You can merge PDF files on a Mac using a PDF editor tool such as Adobe Acrobat DC or PDFsam Basic. Simply select the PDF files you want to merge and click on the “merge” button.
7. Can I password-protect a PDF on a Mac?
Yes, you can password-protect a PDF on a Mac using a PDF editor tool such as Adobe Acrobat DC or PDFpen.
8. How do I convert a PDF to a Word document on a Mac?
You can convert a PDF to a Word document on a Mac using a free online tool such as Smallpdf or a PDF editor tool such as Adobe Acrobat DC.
9. How do I highlight text in a PDF on a Mac?
You can highlight text in a PDF on a Mac using a PDF editor tool such as Adobe Acrobat DC or Preview. Simply select the text you want to highlight and click on the “highlight” button.
10. Can I add comments to a PDF on a Mac?
Yes, you can add comments to a PDF on a Mac using a PDF editor tool such as Adobe Acrobat DC or Preview.
11. How do I rotate a PDF on a Mac?
You can rotate a PDF on a Mac using a PDF editor tool such as Adobe Acrobat DC or Preview. Simply select the pages you want to rotate and click on the “rotate” button.
12. How do I compress a PDF on a Mac?
You can compress a PDF on a Mac using a PDF editor tool such as Adobe Acrobat DC or Preview. Simply click on the “compress” button and choose the level of compression you want.
13. How do I save changes made to a PDF on a Mac?
You can save changes made to a PDF on a Mac using a PDF editor tool such as Adobe Acrobat DC or Preview. Simply click on the “save” button or “file” and “save” to save the changes.
Conclusion
In conclusion, working with PDFs can be challenging, especially when editing them. However, with the right tools and knowledge, you can easily edit PDFs on Mac. The Mac operating system has built-in features that allow you to manipulate PDFs without having to install any additional software. You can also use third-party PDF editors, which offer advanced features and tools that can help you edit PDFs with ease.
Closing
We hope this article has given you valuable insight into how to edit PDFs on Mac. By following the steps outlined above, you can be assured that you’ll be able to edit PDFs with ease. Whether you’re using the built-in features of Mac or a third-party PDF editor, you can be sure that you’ll be able to make the necessary changes to your PDFs. Thank you for reading, and we wish you all the best in your PDF editing endeavors. Happy editing!