How to Batch OCR Multiple PDF Files in Adobe Acrobat DC
Question details
The user wants to perform Optical Character Recognition (OCR) on multiple PDF files simultaneously using Adobe Acrobat DC without having to process each file individually.
- Product
- Adobe Acrobat DC
- Device & OS
- not provided
- Scenario
- Converting a large batch of scanned PDF files or entire directories into editable and searchable text.
- Observed behavior
- The user is looking for the correct tool path or wizard within the software to handle multiple documents or entire folders for text recognition.
Gather all the scanned PDF files you wish to process and place them into a single folder to streamline the batch selection process. Ensure your scans are clear and well-lit to maximize OCR accuracy.
Use the Enhance Scans Tool for Multiple Files
Utilize the built-in 'Recognize Text' tool designed specifically for processing multiple files or entire folders at once.
This is the standard and most direct method for batch processing PDFs in Acrobat DC. It is available in both Standard and Pro editions, allowing you to select individual files, directories, or documents you currently have open.
Launch Adobe Acrobat DC. In the right-hand pane or under the 'Tools' tab, click on 'Enhance Scans'.
In the Enhance Scans toolbar at the top, click on 'Recognize Text' and choose 'In Multiple Files' from the drop-down menu.
In the pop-up dialog box, click 'Add Files'. You can choose to add individual PDF files, an entire folder, or open files. Once selected, click 'OK'.
Choose your Output Options (such as target folder and file naming conventions) and click 'OK'. Select your desired document language and PDF output style, then click 'OK' to begin the batch OCR process.
Create a Custom Action Wizard
Set up a repeatable, automated Action sequence for OCR if you frequently process large batches of documents.
Convert Scanned PDFs to Editable Text with WPS Office
If you are looking for an intuitive alternative, WPS Office provides a robust PDF editor equipped with highly accurate OCR technology. Easily extract text from scanned documents, convert images to editable Word files, and manage your PDFs efficiently.
- 1. Open Your PDF in WPS: Launch WPS Office and open your scanned PDF document using the built-in WPS PDF tool.
- 2. Access the OCR Feature: Navigate to the 'Tools' tab on the top ribbon and click on the 'OCR' or 'Picture to Text' icon.
- 3. Extract and Save: Select the specific pages or drag a bounding box over the text area you wish to recognize. Choose to extract the text to a document or copy it directly to your clipboard.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is the Action Wizard missing in my Adobe Acrobat DC?
The Action Wizard is a premium feature available only in Adobe Acrobat Pro DC. If you are using Acrobat Standard DC, the tool will not appear in your Tools menu. You can still use 'Enhance Scans > Recognize Text > In Multiple Files' for basic batch processing.
Can I prevent Adobe Acrobat from automatically recognizing text?
Yes. If your workflow requires keeping the original unsearchable image intact, you can disable automatic text recognition by going to Edit > Preferences > Convert From PDF, or by unchecking the 'Recognize Text' option within the scanning settings profile.
What should I do if the batch OCR process fails or skips pages?
OCR failures usually happen because of low-resolution scans, highly complex backgrounds, or handwritten text. Ensure your original documents are scanned clearly at 300 DPI minimum. Additionally, verify that the files are not encrypted or password-protected, which blocks text recognition.
Does WPS Office support PDF text recognition (OCR)?
Yes, WPS Office includes a powerful built-in PDF editor with premium OCR capabilities. It allows you to quickly convert scanned documents and image-based PDFs into fully editable and searchable text formats like Word or plain text.
