How to Keep Original Bookmarks When Combining PDFs in Adobe Acrobat
Question details
The user wants to retain original bookmarks without the auto-generated filename bookmarks when merging PDF files in Adobe Acrobat.
- Product
- Adobe Acrobat
- Device & OS
- not provided
- Scenario
- Merging multiple PDF documents that already contain customized bookmarks.
- Observed behavior
- Acrobat automatically creates a new top-level bookmark for each source filename, nesting the original bookmarks underneath, without a built-in toggle to prevent this behavior.
Ensure you have the latest version of Adobe Acrobat installed and make sure to back up your original PDF files before combining them.
Manually Reorganize and Delete Filename Bookmarks
The most straightforward method is to combine the files normally and then manually reorganize the bookmarks to remove the top-level filename entries.
Since Adobe Acrobat does not offer a native toggle to disable filename bookmarks during the merge process, manual adjustment is the most reliable workaround for standard users.
Open Adobe Acrobat, go to 'Tools' > 'Combine Files', add your desired PDFs, and click 'Combine'.
Click the 'Bookmarks' icon on the left navigation pane to view the document's new bookmark structure.
Select the nested original bookmarks under the auto-generated filename bookmark. Click and drag them up to the top level so they are no longer nested.
Once the original bookmarks are safely moved out, select the auto-generated filename bookmarks, right-click, and choose 'Delete'.
Use Acrobat Actions or JavaScript for Repeated Workflows
For users who frequently merge PDFs, using a custom script or the Action Wizard can help automate the cleanup process.
Combine PDFs and Edit Bookmarks Seamlessly in WPS Office
WPS Office provides a comprehensive PDF toolkit that allows you to easily merge multiple PDF documents, manage bookmarks, and edit PDF content without unnecessary complexity.
- 1. Open WPS Office: Launch WPS Office and click on the 'PDF' tab on the home screen.
- 2. Merge PDFs: Select 'Merge PDF' from the toolkit, add the PDF files you want to combine, and click 'Merge'.
- 3. Adjust Bookmarks: Open the newly merged PDF, click the Bookmark icon on the left panel, and easily organize, promote, or delete any unwanted bookmarks.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does Acrobat add filename bookmarks when combining PDFs?
Acrobat adds these top-level bookmarks by default to act as dividers, helping users quickly identify where each original document begins within the newly merged file.
Can I prevent Acrobat from creating filename bookmarks automatically?
Currently, Adobe Acrobat does not offer a built-in settings toggle to completely prevent the creation of filename bookmarks during the 'Combine Files' process.
Will deleting the top-level bookmark delete my original bookmarks?
Yes. If your original bookmarks are nested under the filename bookmark, deleting the filename bookmark will also delete all of its children. You must drag the child bookmarks out to the main level before deleting the parent.
