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Convert to PDF (Portable Document Format)

This page will show you how to convert a word processor file (Microsoft Word) to a PDF file. PDF files describe exactly how a document is to be printed on paper, ensuring that the person receiving your PDF file will see it exactly as it was intended to look. Furthermore, PDF files can be displayed using free software on any computer. Contrast this to sending a Microsoft Word file, which limits your audience to users with a recent version of Microsoft Office or compatible software.

On what computers can I convert to PDF?

Free PDF conversion software (known as Cute PDF) is being installed on all lab computers for the Fall 2007 semester. This software is also available for employees on office computers. Employees will need to install the software by double-clicking the "Install PDF Writer" icon in the application launcher.

Converting Microsoft Word Documents to PDF

Open the Word document.
From the "Office button" (Word 2007) or "File" (Word 2003) menu, select "Print".
The Printer dialog box will appear. For Printer Name, change it to "CutePDF Writer".
Click OK.
After a moment, a "Save As" dialog box will appear. Choose a location and name for the PDF file you are creating.
Click OK.
After a minute or two (longer if is a large document), look for the PDF file in the location you specified. Double-click to open it in Adobe Reader. Verify that the document looks as you intended.

Advanced PDF Manipulation

If you need to do more complicated things with PDF documents (e.g. insert one PDF into another), you will need to use Acrobat Professional. We have a limited number of copies of this software. Employees can contact the Helpdesk for assistance installing this software.