- You can combine multiple PDF files into one document with some basic software.
- Mac users can use the program Preview to combine their PDF files.
- PC users can download one of many free software programs.
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The Portable Document Format (PDF) is one of the most commonly used file types around.
PDFs are primarily shareable text or photo documents accessible to anyone who has a computer or smartphone. Unlike a Word file, which requires Microsoft Word to view or edit, most browsers will open a PDF.
That’s useful when sharing files with friends or colleagues, especially if you don’t know what software they have; PDFs are the one-size-fits-all option. You can also be sure your document’s format won’t change regardless of what kind of device is accessing your file.
But let’s say you have one or more documents to share. Instead of sending multiple attachments in an email, you can combine and organize multiple PDFs into one file.
Mac users can do this using the Preview app that comes with your computer.
PC users will have to download software, but many of these programs are free and easy to use.
How to combine PDF files on a PC
PCs do not come with a program well-equipped to combine PDF files. You have to seek out and download free software. There are many, but we'll be using the free, open-source software PDFsam.
- Open PDFsam.
- Click "Merge."
- Drag and drop the PDFs you want to combine into the new window. You can also click the "Add" button at the top-left.
- Select if you want to normalize page size, add footers, or include a table of contents.
- Click "Run" at the bottom.
- Click "Open" to see your new PDF file.