How to Close All Open PDFs in Acrobat Reader at Once
Question details
The user needs a method to close multiple open PDF documents simultaneously in Adobe Acrobat Reader, as there is no obvious built-in command for this action.
- Product
- Adobe Acrobat Reader
- Device & OS
- not provided
- Scenario
- Managing multiple open PDF files and needing a quick, efficient way to close them all at once.
- Observed behavior
- Acrobat Reader lacks a native 'Close All' button, forcing users to manually close tabs one by one unless a workaround is implemented.
Ensure you have manually saved any critical changes to your open PDF documents, as automated script methods may close files without prompting you to save.
Use a Custom JavaScript File to Close All PDFs
Since Acrobat Reader lacks a native 'Close All' feature, you can add a custom JavaScript file to the application's installation folder to automate the process.
Adobe Acrobat Reader supports custom JavaScript files that extend its functionality. By placing a specialized script into the application's JavaScripts folder, you can create a custom background action that closes all open documents simultaneously.
Navigate to the installation directory for your Acrobat Reader. On Windows, this is typically found at 'C:\Program Files\Adobe\Acrobat DC\Acrobat\Javascripts' (the path may vary slightly depending on your version).
Open a text editor like Notepad. Paste your desired JavaScript code designed to loop through and close all open documents (you can find user-created scripts on Adobe forums or developer blogs).
Save the file in the JavaScripts folder and name it something recognizable, like 'CloseAll.js'. Make sure the 'Save as type' is set to 'All Files' so it doesn't save as a .txt file.
Close and reopen Adobe Acrobat Reader. The script will now be active, allowing you to use the newly added script functionality to close all files at once.
Use WPS Office to Easily Close All Open PDFs
Unlike Acrobat Reader, WPS Office features a highly intuitive tabbed workspace out of the box. You can effortlessly manage multiple open PDF files and close them all with a single right-click, without needing to learn or install complex JavaScript coding.
- 1. Open your PDFs in WPS Office: Launch WPS Office and open your multiple PDF files. They will neatly organize into tabs within a single application window.
- 2. Right-click the document tab: Right-click on any of the open document tabs located at the top of the workspace.
- 3. Select 'Close All': Choose 'Close All' from the context menu to instantly close every open document. You will be prompted to save any unsaved changes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I close all tabs in Acrobat Reader using a keyboard shortcut?
By default, Acrobat Reader does not have a single keyboard shortcut to close all open tabs simultaneously. You must repeatedly press 'Ctrl + W' (on Windows) or 'Cmd + W' (on Mac) to close them one by one.
Will the custom JavaScript method prompt me to save my PDFs?
It entirely depends on how the script is written. Standard 'close all' scripts often close documents without saving to save time. However, the JavaScript code can be adapted to include a save prompt before closing each file.
Where is the JavaScripts folder located on a Mac?
On macOS, the JavaScripts folder is located inside the Adobe Acrobat Reader application package. Go to your Applications folder, right-click on Adobe Acrobat Reader, select 'Show Package Contents', and navigate to 'Contents/Resources/JavaScripts'.
