In today’s digitally-dependent world, every individual is dependent on electronic documents. Even though tons of document formats are readily available, most users prefer using the PDF format.
The top-tier format allows users to make various edits, i.e., users can embed fonts in PDF files, add signatures, annotate text, etc. You can use the format to create and distribute documents containing sensitive information.
Some of the top reasons why people use PDFs are given below.
-
The Most Versatile and Portable Format
The Portable Document Format or PDF is a highly portable and versatile file format. It is independent of application software, hardware, and operating systems. In simpler words, the format is compatible with almost every device and operating system, such as Windows, macOS, iOS, and Android.
-
A Highly Compact Format
One of the best parts about the PDF format is that it is very compact, i.e., users can convert any document into a PDF file without losing the original file’s quality. There are numerous types of converters available, using which users can convert different types of documents into PDF format.
The best part about online converters is that they are free to use. Some of the most popular online converters using which individuals can convert any document into PDF include SmallPDF, PDF2Go, iLovePDF, etc.
Besides this, users also get the option to merge different types of documents into PDF format. It can store different types of files and objects. For instance, if an individual wish to merge a spreadsheet, photograph, word file, and other graphical elements into a single PDF file, they can do it without hassle.
-
Easily Accessible
The PDF format is highly accessible. For instance, the format can be accessed using popular web browsers, such as Google Chrome, Safari, Firefox, etc. This aspect of the format makes it easier for users to read and engage with the published content.
When accessing PDF documents on computers, tablets, or smartphones, all users need is a reliable PDF viewer or PDF editor to get the job done. For instance, Adobe Acrobat is a robust application that works exceptionally well on all platforms and operating systems, including macOS, Windows, iOS, and Android. You can quickly search for other editors online.
-
Access to Top-Tier Security Features
Most companies, organizations, and individuals use the PDF format to store sensitive information. One of the main reasons why the PDF format is preferred for storing important information is because it supports numerous security features.
For starters, individuals can secure PDF files by encrypting or password-protecting them using tools like Acrobat. To encrypt PDF files using Adobe Acrobat, all users need to do is open the PDF file in Acrobat, navigate to the “Protect” section in the Tools menu, and use the “Encrypt with Password” option to set a strong password.
Besides this, the format also supports watermarks, using which individuals can prevent others from stealing their data.
-
Easily Searchable
In most cases, PDF documents contain tons of information, which is why PDF files have lots of pages. However, it becomes harder for users to manually search for a specific portion of information present in the file. Thankfully, the format offers high searchability.
With the right PDF software, users can easily find any information in a PDF file within seconds. Moreover, users also have the option to organize the documents with a table featuring the file’s contents. The contents in the table can then be linked to their respective page numbers to enhance searchability.
-
Easier to Create Presentations
Out of all the document formats available for users, PDF is the first choice of users when it comes to making presentations in front of an audience or adding an online signature. There are numerous reasons why PDF files are used for presenting the information.
For starters, they display the information in an organized manner. Besides this, they feature small file sizes, which makes it easier for users to transfer or share them with others.
-
Preferred Format for Printing
Millions of users use the PDF format all around the globe for printing files. One of the main reasons is that PDF files have the ability to preserve or maintain the high quality of the content without increasing the file size significantly. Hence, they have deemed the perfect format for printing files.
Final Thoughts
The PDF format was introduced in 1991 by Adobe. Ever since its inception, the format’s popularity grew leaps and bounds. Today, it is a universally used format accessible on all devices and platforms. People love using this format because of its user-friendliness, encryption features, and ease of distribution.
Have you used the PDF format for your personal or commercial purposes? If not, you are missing out on leveraging this format’s goodness. So keep in mind all the aforementioned reasons why people use this format and start using it yourself.