If you’ve ever needed to edit a document after scanning it, you might have wondered how to edit a scanned PDF file. Having a PDF of a document offers numerous advantages.
Firstly, it allows you to share files easily, quickly, and practically – via email or file-sharing platforms like Google Drive. This is unlike physical copies which require postal or courier services, taking days to arrive. Secondly, you can actually edit the text within these files!
However, the scanning process often treats the scanned output as an image. The text within becomes undetectable, preventing direct editing. But don’t worry! As car repair experts at carcodepro.com, we’ve compiled straightforward steps to help you edit scanned text effortlessly. Let’s explore these methods.
Editing Scanned PDFs Using PC Applications
One approach to edit scanned PDFs is by using PC applications. The benefits include offline accessibility and a range of features like PDF creation, document merging, file format conversion, and more.
1. Download Foxit PhantomPDF
The first step is to visit a PDF editing software provider’s website, such as Foxit PhantomPDF. Click this link to go to the download page and click the “Download Foxit PhantomPDF” button.
On the next page, enter your personal details as requested and click the “Download Free Trial” button. You can choose either EXE or MSI – both serve the same function. Once the setup file is downloaded, open it to install the application.
2. Open Foxit PhantomPDF
Launch the application and click on the Free Trial option. You’ll see options like Business, Standard, or Education. All three offer scanned PDF editing features, but vary in additional functionalities. Choose the one that suits you best.
Next, you’ll be prompted to enter some personal details for registration. Click Register Now once all fields are filled, and a message will confirm your successful 14-day free trial activation. After successful installation, open the application, click Open File, and select the scanned PDF file you wish to edit.
4. Perform OCR on the Document
Now, it’s time to perform OCR on your document. OCR, or Optical Character Recognition, recognizes characters or text within images and PDFs. Once the text is recognized, you can search for keywords and edit the file.
Select the Convert tab and choose the OCR menu. Two options are available: Current File and Multiple Files. As the names suggest, Multiple Files allows you to make several PDFs editable simultaneously. For this guide, click Current File, choose “Editable Text,” and then click OK. Wait for the OCR process to complete.
5. Edit Your PDF File Freely
Your scanned PDF file is now editable! Be aware that minor changes in layout and formatting might occur. OCR isn’t always perfectly accurate – some characters may be misinterpreted or missing, especially if the scan quality is poor, hindering character recognition.
Select the Edit tab and click on the Edit Text menu. You can now edit your scanned PDF file as needed. Remember to save your changes (press CTRL + S on your keyboard) when finished.
Editing Scanned PDFs Online via Browser
Having explored PC applications, you might want to try an alternative method. The previous method requires software download and installation, and is limited by a 14-day free trial.
Instead of purchasing software, consider online methods that eliminate installations. Here’s how to edit scanned PDFs online through your browser.
1. Visit an Online OCR Website
First, find an online OCR provider, widely available on the internet. This tutorial uses NewOCR.com. Why NewOCR.com? Because it’s an OCR site that doesn’t limit the number of PDF uploads. Type “https://newocr.com” into your browser’s search bar and press Enter.
2. Upload Your Scanned PDF File
You’ll see a Choose File button to locate and upload your PDF file to the server. Rest assured, your documents are secure! All uploaded files are immediately deleted by the server, ensuring no information is compromised.
After selecting your PDF file, click Preview. On the next page, choose the language used in your PDF – NewOCR.com also supports Indonesian. After selecting the language, choose the OCR menu to make your document editable.
3. Edit Your PDF Text
The text from your PDF will be extracted and displayed in a text box, which you can copy and edit as needed. Furthermore, you can download the text in DOCX and TXT formats to obtain an editable file. Congratulations, you’ve successfully obtained editable text from your PDF file.
Remember, online OCR tools might be less accurate than PC applications. Also, text formatting (font, size, margins) in the final file may slightly differ due to the limited features compared to dedicated software.
These are several methods to edit scanned PDF files. Both PC applications and online browsers offer unique pros and cons. If you have ample internet data, using a PC application is recommended for better accuracy and feature richness. Utilize the 14-day free trial, and for continued use, consider online OCR through browsers. Happy editing!
