Changing the default PDF viewer in Windows 10 is a simple process that lets you choose which application opens PDF files by default. You’ll need to adjust some settings, but the whole process should take only a few minutes. Here’s how to do it.
Step by Step Tutorial to Change Default PDF Viewer in Windows 10
Let’s walk through the steps to change the default PDF viewer on your Windows 10 system. This change can help you use your preferred application whenever you open a PDF file.
Step 1: Open Settings
First, click the Start button, then select the gear icon to open the Settings menu.
Navigating to the Settings menu is your doorway to changing system preferences. Think of it as the control center for your computer where you can adjust various settings.
Step 2: Access Apps
In the Settings menu, click on “Apps” to open the Apps & Features window.
The Apps section is like a library of all the software installed on your computer. Here, you can manage and customize applications and their default settings.
Step 3: Go to Default Apps
In the Apps & Features window, click on “Default apps” from the sidebar.
The Default Apps section lists all the default programs for common tasks like email, web browsing, and viewing photos. This is where we’ll change the PDF viewer.
Step 4: Change the PDF Viewer
Scroll down and click on the current default PDF viewer under the “Choose default apps by file type” section. Then select your preferred application from the list.
You’ll see a list of all installed programs capable of opening PDF files. Select the one you prefer, and it will become the new default PDF viewer.
Step 5: Confirm the Change
After you select your preferred application, close the Settings window to confirm your changes.
Once you’ve made your selection, closing the Settings window saves your changes automatically. Your new default PDF viewer is now set.
After completing these steps, any PDF file you open should launch with your chosen application. This change can make your workflow more efficient, especially if you prefer certain features of a specific PDF viewer.
Tips for Changing Default PDF Viewer in Windows 10
- Choose a Reliable PDF Viewer : Pick a viewer that offers all the features you need, like annotation or text search.
- Keep Software Updated : Ensure the PDF viewer you choose is updated to avoid compatibility issues.
- Experiment with Different Viewers : Try out a few different applications to find the one that suits you best.
- Check for Compatibility : Make sure the PDF viewer is compatible with Windows 10 to avoid any functionality issues.
- Revert Changes If Needed : You can always follow these steps again to revert back to a previous PDF viewer if you change your mind.
How do I revert back to the original PDF viewer?
Simply follow the same steps and select the previous PDF viewer you were using.
Is it safe to change the default PDF viewer?
Yes, changing the default PDF viewer in Windows 10 is safe and does not affect the system’s performance.
Can I use any PDF viewer?
You can use any PDF viewer that is compatible with Windows 10 and installed on your computer.
What if the new default PDF viewer isn’t listed?
Ensure the preferred PDF viewer is installed correctly. If it’s not listed, try reinstalling the application.
Will this change affect all my PDF files?
Yes, once you change the default PDF viewer, all PDF files will open with the new application by default.
Summary
- Open Settings
- Access Apps
- Go to Default Apps
- Change the PDF Viewer
- Confirm the Change
Conclusion
Changing the default PDF viewer in Windows 10 is a straightforward process that can significantly enhance your productivity. By following the steps outlined above, you can easily set your preferred application as the default PDF viewer. Whether you need advanced editing features or just a faster performance, choosing the right PDF viewer can make a big difference in your daily tasks.
If you ever need to revert or try another PDF viewer, simply follow the same steps. For further reading, consider exploring different PDF viewers available in the market to find the one that best suits your needs. Happy viewing!
Matthew Burleigh has been writing tech tutorials since 2008. His writing has appeared on dozens of different websites and been read over 50 million times.
After receiving his Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Computer Science he spent several years working in IT management for small businesses. However, he now works full time writing content online and creating websites.
His main writing topics include iPhones, Microsoft Office, Google Apps, Android, and Photoshop, but he has also written about many other tech topics as well.
Read his full bio here.
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Printing a PDF from Word is a straightforward process. First, open the Word document you want to convert. Then, click on ‘File’ and select ‘Save As.’ In the Save As dialog box, choose PDF from the dropdown menu, and click ‘Save.’ Your Word document is now a PDF!
After completing this action, you will have a PDF version of your Word document. This PDF can be shared, printed, or stored as a digital file.
Introduction
Have you ever needed to share a document with someone, but they don’t have Microsoft Word? Or maybe you want to make sure the formatting stays exactly the same, no matter what device it’s viewed on. One solution is to convert your Word document into a PDF. This format is universally accessible and retains the layout and formatting of your document.
Converting Word documents to PDFs is a valuable skill for students, professionals, and anyone who shares documents online. Whether you’re submitting a paper, sending a resume, or sharing a report, a PDF ensures your document appears the same for everyone. Plus, PDFs are less easily altered than Word documents, providing an added layer of security for sensitive information.
Step by Step Tutorial: How to Print a PDF from Word
Before we dive into the steps, it’s important to understand that converting a Word document to a PDF is beneficial because it maintains the original formatting and is widely accepted for professional documents. Now, let’s get started.
Step 1: Open your Word document
Open the Word document that you want to convert to a PDF.
This is the document that contains the content you wish to print as a PDF. Make sure you’ve saved any changes before proceeding.
Step 2: Click on ‘File’
Go to the top left corner of the screen and click on the ‘File’ tab.
This will open the backstage view, where you can access various options for managing your document.
Step 3: Select ‘Save As’
In the ‘File’ menu, find and select the ‘Save As’ option.
This allows you to save a copy of your document, potentially in a different format.
Step 4: Choose PDF from the dropdown menu
In the ‘Save As’ dialog box, look for the ‘Save as type’ dropdown menu and select PDF.
PDF is listed among other file types like Word Document (.docx) and Plain Text (.txt).
Step 5: Click ‘Save’
After selecting PDF from the dropdown menu, click the ‘Save’ button.
Your Word document will now be converted and saved as a PDF file.
Pros
| Benefit | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Universally Accessible | PDF files can be opened on any device with a PDF reader, making sharing documents hassle-free. |
| Maintains Formatting | Converting to PDF ensures the document’s layout and formatting remain intact, regardless of where it’s opened. |
| Security | PDFs can be password protected and are more difficult to alter without leaving an electronic footprint. |
Cons
| Drawback | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Requires PDF Reader | To view a PDF, you must have a PDF reader installed on your device, which may be an extra step for some users. |
| Limited Editability | Once a document is saved as a PDF, it’s more challenging to make edits than in a Word document. |
| File Size | PDFs can sometimes have a larger file size than Word documents, which might be an issue when sharing via email. |
Additional Information
When you print a PDF from Word, you’re creating a secure and reliable copy of your document that can be easily shared and accessed on various devices. But remember, while PDFs are great for viewing a document as intended, they are not ideal if you need to make future edits. If you anticipate needing to update the document, it’s wise to keep the original Word file.
Another tip is to use the ‘Print’ option instead of ‘Save As’ if you want to directly print the document as a PDF. This can be particularly useful when working with a printer that supports direct PDF printing. Additionally, if you’re dealing with sensitive information, consider encrypting your PDF or adding a watermark before sharing it.
Lastly, keep in mind that while most modern Word processors can save documents as PDFs, the specific steps may vary slightly depending on your software version. The process outlined here is based on the most recent versions of Microsoft Word.
Summary
- Open your Word document
- Click on ‘File’
- Select ‘Save As’
- Choose PDF from the dropdown menu
- Click ‘Save’
Can I convert a Word document to PDF on a Mac?
Yes, the steps are similar to those on a Windows PC. Use the ‘File’ menu and choose ‘Export to PDF’ on a Mac.
Will my hyperlinks work in the PDF?
Generally, yes. Most PDF readers support active hyperlinks, but it’s always a good idea to test your PDF after conversion to ensure everything works as expected.
Can I convert a Word document to PDF without Microsoft Word?
Yes, there are online converters and other software options available that can convert Word documents to PDF.
Can I save multiple Word documents as one PDF?
Yes, you can combine multiple Word documents into one PDF using the ‘Combine’ feature in Adobe Acrobat or similar PDF editing software.
Is it possible to convert a PDF back into a Word document?
Yes, there are tools available that can convert PDFs back into editable Word documents, though the formatting may not be perfectly preserved.
Conclusion
Printing a PDF from Word is a simple yet powerful way to ensure your documents maintain their formatting, are easily shareable, and secure. Whether you’re a student turning in a paper, a professional sharing a report, or just need to send a document to someone without Word, knowing how to convert your files to PDF is a game-changer.
With this skill in your repertoire, you’re well-equipped to handle a range of document sharing needs. So go ahead, give it a try, and see how this trick can streamline your workflow!
Matthew Burleigh has been writing tech tutorials since 2008. His writing has appeared on dozens of different websites and been read over 50 million times.
After receiving his Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Computer Science he spent several years working in IT management for small businesses. However, he now works full time writing content online and creating websites.
His main writing topics include iPhones, Microsoft Office, Google Apps, Android, and Photoshop, but he has also written about many other tech topics as well.
Read his full bio here.
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