How to Fix 'No Pages Selected to Print' Error in Adobe Acrobat XI
Question details
The user is unable to print PDF documents after reinstalling the software and is receiving a misleading error message stating that no pages have been selected.
- Product
- Adobe Acrobat XI
- Device & OS
- not provided
- Scenario
- Attempting to print a standard PDF document to an available, functioning printer after completing a recent software reinstallation.
- Observed behavior
- The print job fails to execute, and the application displays a 'No Pages Selected To Print' prompt, even when pages are clearly specified.
Before applying these workarounds, verify that your printer is turned on, set as the default printer in your system settings, and that you have the latest printer drivers installed.
Use the 'Print as Image' Workaround
This is the most reliable workaround for older versions of Acrobat, as it bypasses complex text and font rendering that often triggers the error.
Because Adobe Acrobat XI is an older, unsupported software version, it can sometimes struggle to process specific font data or PDF formatting after being reinstalled. Printing the document as an image forces the software to send a rasterized picture of the page to the printer, effectively avoiding the rendering glitch.
Launch Adobe Acrobat XI, open the PDF file you wish to print, and go to File > Print from the top menu bar.
In the Print dialog box, locate and click the 'Advanced' button, typically found near the top right of the window.
Check the box labeled 'Print As Image' in the Advanced Print Setup dialog. Click OK to save this preference.
Click the 'Print' button in the main dialog to send the document to your printer.
Repair the Acrobat Installation
Running the built-in repair tool can fix corrupted registry entries or missing files that may have occurred during the reinstallation process.
Print PDFs Seamlessly with WPS Office
Since Adobe Acrobat XI is no longer officially supported and frequently encounters legacy bugs, switching to a modern PDF reader can save you time. WPS Office includes a powerful, built-in PDF tool that opens and prints your documents flawlessly without page selection errors.
- 1. Download WPS Office: Download and install the free version of WPS Office from the official website.
- 2. Open Your PDF: Launch WPS Office, click on 'Open', and select the PDF file that was failing to print.
- 3. Access Print Settings: Click the 'Print' icon on the top toolbar or press Ctrl+P on your keyboard.
- 4. Print the Document: Select your desired printer, adjust your page settings, and click 'Print' to successfully output your document.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does Acrobat XI say 'No pages selected to print'?
This is a known glitch in older versions of Adobe Acrobat, particularly version XI. It is often caused by corrupted application preferences, conflicts with modern printer drivers, or incomplete registry entries following a reinstallation.
Is there a permanent fix for this Acrobat XI error?
Because Adobe Acrobat XI reached its end of support in 2017, Adobe no longer issues bug fixes for it. If the 'Print as Image' workaround or repairing the installation does not permanently resolve the issue, transitioning to a modern, supported PDF reader like WPS PDF is the best long-term solution.
Does printing a PDF as an image use more printer ink?
Printing as an image does not necessarily use more ink, but it does create a significantly larger spool file. This means your computer and printer will take longer to process and transmit the data before the physical printing begins.
Can I reinstall Acrobat XI again to fix the problem?
While you can try completely uninstalling, using a cleaner tool to remove leftover registry files, and reinstalling again, users frequently report that the error persists. Using alternative printing methods or software is generally more reliable.
