PDF Guide
PDFs are the digital equivalent of "printing" a document to a screen, freezing your layout, fonts, and images in place so they look identical on any device. Unlike standard text files that can shift or break depending on the software used to open them, the Portable Document Format ensures your work remains professional and unchangeable. This universal compatibility makes them the gold standard for everything from resumes to legal contracts, providing a secure, compact, and polished way to share information without the fear of formatting mishaps.
PDF's, by default, are not accessible. To learn about creating accessible PDF's, review CELT's PDF acessibility guide.
Adobe Acrobat
Adobe Acrobat is the industry standard for transforming almost any file format—including images, web pages, and even scanned paper—into a professional PDF. Beyond a simple conversion, its powerful engine ensures that your high-resolution graphics and complex layouts remain perfectly intact across all platforms. With its built-in tools, you can easily create PDFs from other file types in a few clicks, giving you the flexibility to consolidate diverse documents into a single, polished file ready for secure sharing or professional printing.
Google Docs
To download your Google Doc as a PDF, simply go to File > Download and select PDF Document (.pdf) from the menu. This instantly converts your cloud-based document into a static file that’s saved directly to your computer, preserving your layout and fonts for easy sharing or printing. It’s the quickest way to turn a collaborative draft into a professional, "read-only" final version.
Grackle PDF
Grackle PDF. Unlike a standard "Save as PDF" function, Grackle scans for structural issues, like missing alt text or improper headings. This ensures your final file isn't just a visual copy, but a fully navigable document optimized for screen readers and assistive technology. Departments can request a quote from Grackle Docs.
Office
Microsoft’s official guide explains how to convert Word, Excel, and PowerPoint files into fixed-layout formats like PDF or XPS. It covers using the Export or Save As menus to preserve formatting, ensure security, and optimize files for either online sharing or high-quality printing. Learn how to save or convert to PDF or XPS in Office Desktop apps.