Top Tips for Getting Accurate PDF Conversions
Getting good results from PDF conversions isn't always automatic. These simple tips will help you get more accurate, cleaner output every time.
Why PDF conversion isn't always perfect
PDFs were designed for display and printing, not editing. They encode content in a complex way that doesn't map neatly to other formats. But with good input and the right tool, you can get excellent results.
Tip 1: Know Your PDF Type
There are two types of PDFs:
- **Native PDFs**: Created digitally. Have a text layer. Convert cleanly.
- **Scanned PDFs**: Photos of paper documents. Have no text layer. Require OCR.
Knowing which type you have helps you pick the right tool and set realistic expectations.
Tip 2: Use High-Quality Source Files
For scanned PDFs, the quality of the original scan matters a lot. Aim for at least 150 DPI, ideally 300 DPI. A dark, crisp scan of black text on white paper gives the best OCR results.
Tip 3: Correct Orientation Before Converting
If your PDF pages are rotated or skewed, correct them first if possible. Misaligned text is significantly harder for OCR to read.
Tip 4: Choose the Right Output Format
- Need to edit the text? Use **PDF to Word**.
- Just need the raw text? Use **PDF to Text** — faster and simpler.
- Need images of each page? Use **PDF to Images**.
Tip 5: Review Before Using
Always review the output before using it in important documents. OCR outputs occasionally have errors, especially with:
- Special characters and symbols
- Tables and columns
- Unusual fonts
Tip 6: Use Browser-Based Tools for Privacy
For sensitive documents, use tools like ConvertIQ that process files locally in your browser. Your PDF never touches a third-party server.
Conclusion
With these tips, you'll get consistently better PDF conversions. Start with clean, high-quality input, choose the right output format, and always review the result. ConvertIQ makes all of this easy with our free browser-based converter suite.