How to Edit PDFs in Google Drive Using Google Docs

Introduction

Editing PDFs directly on Google Drive can be a lifesaver when you need to make changes to documents quickly and easily. With Google Docs, you can convert and edit PDF files right within your Google Drive account. Follow these steps to learn how to edit your PDFs using Google Docs.

Steps to Edit Your PDFs

Step 1: Understand Which PDFs You Can Edit

Before you begin, it's important to know which types of PDFs can be edited using Google Docs. PDFs that were created from text documents (like former Word or Notepad files) can be converted into editable documents via Google Docs. However, this method is not suitable for PDFs created from photographs or series of photos, or those that contain complex layouts and images. Also, PDFs that are password-protected cannot be edited using Google Docs.

Step 2: Open Google Docs

1. Go to Google Docs in your computer's web browser. If you are already logged in, you will be directed to your Google Docs page.

2. If you are not logged in, click in the middle of the page and enter your email address and password when prompted.

Step 3: Upload Your PDF to Google Drive

1. Click the Upload option at the top of the page. This will open a window from which you can select your PDF file.

2. Click the Select a file from your computer blue button at the bottom of the window. Doing this opens a file explorer from which you can select your desired PDF file.

3. Select your PDF file and click Open.

4. Once the PDF is selected and opened, it will upload to Google Drive. This process is seamless, and once the PDF is open and fully uploaded, you can proceed to the next step.

Step 4: Convert and Edit Your PDF

1. After the PDF is uploaded, select the uploaded PDF file.

2. Click on the Open with option at the top of the page.

3. In the drop-down menu that appears, click Google Docs.

4. Your PDF will open in Google Docs in a new tab, where you can edit the text as you would with a regular Google Docs document. Note that the formatting of your PDF may change depending on the type of PDF it was before you opened it in Google Docs.

Step 5: Save or Export Your Edited PDF

1. After making the necessary changes, you can save or export your edited PDF.

2. Click on File from the top menu.

3. Click on Download, and then select the format you prefer:

PDF: This will convert the document back into a PDF and download it onto your computer. Word (.docx): This will save the PDF as a Word document, and it can be edited later using Microsoft Word or other compatible software.

4. Optionally, you can also click on Save to save the changes to Google Drive without downloading.

By following these steps, you can efficiently edit your PDFs using Google Docs in Google Drive.

Conclusion

Editing PDFs in Google Drive with Google Docs is a convenient solution for quick text modifications. While this method works well for basic PDFs, it may not be ideal for complex layouts or images. For more advanced editing, consider using dedicated PDF editing software.