How to Print PDF Files

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Co-authored by Luigi Oppido

Last Updated: November 15, 2024 Tested

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Printing a PDF

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Troubleshooting a PDF That Won't Print

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Video

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PDF files are great for protecting the integrity of a document, but they can be a hassle when it comes time to print them. To print a PDF file, open it and click File at the top. Click Print to open the print menu, and then set your printing options. This wikiHow will teach you how to print PDFs and troubleshoot ones that won't print.

Quick Steps

Click File at the top.
Click Print.
Select your printer.
Select the number of copies.
Click Print.

Part 1

Part 1 of 2:

Printing a PDF

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1
Open the PDF file. Use your reader program to open the PDF, or open it in your browser by dragging the file into the browser window.
- Adobe makes a free reader program that can be downloaded from their website. You can also download readers from a variety of other developers. If you'd rather not download a reader program, most browsers can open PDF files in a browser window.
This will open a print dialog box displaying various options. Certain readers and web browsers make a Print button available at the top or bottom of the document without having to open the File menu.

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Select your printer. In the Print dialog box, you will be able to choose the printer that you want to send the document to. This is especially important if you are in an environment with more than one printer.
- Check that the printer you selected is either directly connected to the computer or the network you are using and is working perfectly.
- A sufficient amount of paper should also be loaded in the printer.
- Don't have a printer? Find out where wikiHow readers go to print documents for free at our "Where can I print something near me for free (don't own a printer)" forum!
If your PDF file is multiple pages and you only need specific ones, use the Range or Pages section of the Print window to set which pages should be sent to the printer.
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Choose any advanced printing options. Choose advanced printing features by clicking on "Properties" button. From here a number of selections can be made to the layout, finish, and other features of the PDF file. Additionally, this is where to select whether to print in color or in black and white.
- The location of features will vary depending on the software you are using to open the PDF file.
- In Adobe Reader, a front cover as well as a back cover can be printed from the "Cover Mode" tab. In addition, in order to save printer toner "Toner Save" can be selected under "Quality". This will slightly reduce the quality of the final printed file. An additional way to save paper is to print double-sided by selecting "Two-Sided" under Print Type from the "Layout" tab.
Once you have set all of your printing options, you can send it to printer by clicking the Print button. Your document will be added to the printer queue.

Part 2

Part 2 of 2:

Troubleshooting a PDF That Won't Print

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Before trying any software fixes, ensure that your printer is properly connected and has enough ink and paper to complete the print job. A paper jam could also cause a document to not print.
Try printing something other than a PDF file, such as a Word document. If the document prints without issue, then the problem is most likely the PDF file. If the document does not print, then your printer may be malfunctioning.
Some printers may have difficulties with PDFs until they are updated. Visit your printer's manufacturer's website and search for your printer model in the Support section. Download the latest drivers and install them.
Try printing the PDF file to a completely different printer. This may solve the problem if the original printer is simply not compatible.
If nothing else works, you can convert the PDF to an image file. This should allow the printer to print it without causing any problems. For details on how to convert your PDF, see this guide.^{[1]
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Common Questions: Printing Documents on a Computer

Why won't my PDF file print?

Make sure your printer is online and plugged into your computer. If you're using an AirPrint-enabled printer, make sure both devices are logged into the same Wi-Fi network. You may also need to update your printer drivers.

How do I change the print settings on a PDF?

When you open the Print menu, you can specify which printer, how many copies, color, orientation, and more. Select the settings you want, and then click Print.

Why is my printer connected, but not printing?

Make sure your cables are secure and plugged into the proper ports. If your printer still isn't printing, you may need to update your driver. Visit the manufacturer's official website and download the latest printing software to your computer.