A better way to create PDFs?

Nothing’s easier than clicking Print, right? It is easy, but it can also be limiting when it comes to generating PDFs. Today we look at other ways to create PDFs: using PhantomPDF or from the command bar in Office apps.

Using Microsoft Office to create PDF documents

If you have Microsoft Office and PhantomPDF, you can convert Word, Excel, Outlook, and PowerPoint documents into PDF files. And here’s what you get that you don’t get using the “print” method: preservation of your watermarks, headers, footers, and security.

To do it, use the Foxit PDF tab that PhantomPDF adds to your Office programs.

When you open this tab, click the Create PDF button to save your file in the PDF. That’s almost as easy, if not easier, than the print method.

The main advantage is keeping bookmarks of the source file from Microsoft Word in your PDF (that option is on by default). You can even retain watermarks, headers and footers, and security options, by printing your file and clicking on the Properties button to set your Foxit PhantomPDF printing preferences.

Using PhantomPDF to create PDF documents

There are three ways to convert PDF files with PhantomPDF. The first and easiest way is to simply drag the file into your PhantomPDF software. This will automatically convert the file for you and make it ready to edit and/or format.

The second method is to click on the FILE tab and then click on Create. You’re then presented with the option to create your PDF from:

• A blank page
• An existing file
• Multiple existing files
• From a scanned file
• From content copied to your clipboard

Here, your options are also to retain bookmarks, watermarks, and security features as you see fit.

Last but not least, you can click on the Convert tab to convert files to PDF and retain the previously mentioned features of your document. (Seeing a pattern here?)

Which PDF creation method is the right one for you? It really depends upon your workflow and where you’re starting from. If you want the most flexibility and control, creating a PDF from scratch is a good way to go.

To see the most frequently used ways to create PDF files by converting from other file formats, watch this video.