What is PDF

PDF stands for Portable Document Format. It's a file format developed by Adobe Systems that preserves the original formatting of a document, regardless of the software or hardware used to create or view it.  
Key characteristics of PDF files include:

• Platform independence: PDF files can be viewed and printed on various devices and operating systems without requiring the original software used to create them.  
  
• High-quality output: PDFs are known for their ability to maintain high-quality graphics, text, and fonts, even when printed or viewed on different screens.
  
• Searchability: PDFs can be searched for specific words or phrases, making them useful for archiving and retrieval.  
  

Security: PDF files can be protected with passwords, digital signatures, and other security features to prevent unauthorised access or modification.  ​

​Common uses for PDF files:

• Document sharing: PDFs are widely used for sharing documents, such as reports, presentations, and contracts.  
  
• Archiving: PDFs are a popular format for archiving documents due to their durability and compatibility.  
  
• E-books: Many e-books are distributed in PDF format.
  

Forms: Online forms are often available in PDF format for filling out and submitting.