How to Modify XML or PDF Metadata in Adobe Acrobat
Question details
The user needs to know how to edit standard document metadata or advanced XML/XMP properties in a PDF document using Adobe Acrobat.

- Product
- Adobe Acrobat
- Device & OS
- not provided
- Scenario
- Updating standard document properties like author and title, or modifying advanced XML/XMP metadata within a PDF.
- Observed behavior
- The user is looking for the specific tools and menus required to change metadata fields or modify standalone XML associated with a PDF file.
Ensure you have the necessary permissions to edit the PDF file, as password-protected or restricted documents will prevent any metadata modifications.
Edit Standard Document Properties
Modify basic metadata fields like title, author, subject, and keywords directly from the Document Properties menu in Adobe Acrobat.
Most users simply need to update the basic document properties. Adobe Acrobat provides a straightforward interface to change this standard metadata, which is useful for document organization and SEO purposes.
Open your PDF file in Adobe Acrobat. Click on the 'File' menu in the top-left corner and select 'Properties' from the dropdown list.
In the Document Properties dialog box, click on the 'Description' tab to view the standard metadata fields.
Type your new information into the Title, Author, Subject, and Keywords text boxes as needed.
Click 'OK' to close the dialog box, then go to 'File' > 'Save' to apply the metadata changes to your PDF document.

Modify Advanced XMP Metadata
Access the Additional Metadata section to make complex XML or XMP modifications for your PDF.
Edit Standalone XML Files
Use a dedicated text or XML editor if your XML data is a separate file rather than embedded PDF metadata.
Edit PDF Document Properties Easily with WPS Office
If you need a lightweight and cost-effective way to manage PDF metadata, WPS PDF allows you to quickly view and modify standard document properties like Title, Author, and Subject.
- 1. Open the PDF in WPS Office: Launch WPS Office and open your target PDF file within the application.
- 2. Access Document Properties: Click on 'Menu' in the top-left corner of the interface and select 'Document Properties' from the dropdown list.
- 3. Modify Information: In the Description tab, freely update the Title, Author, Subject, and Keywords fields.
- 4. Save the Document: Click 'OK' to confirm your changes, then click the Save icon to embed the new metadata into your PDF.

Frequently Asked Questions
Can I remove all metadata from a PDF at once?
Yes, in Adobe Acrobat, you can use the 'Remove Hidden Information' or 'Sanitize Document' tool found under the Protect or Redact toolsets. This will strip all metadata, hidden text, and personal data from the file.
What is XMP metadata in a PDF?
XMP (Extensible Metadata Platform) is an XML-based standard created by Adobe. It is used to embed advanced, standardized metadata—such as copyright details, creation history, and application info—directly into the PDF file.
Why can't I edit the properties of my PDF document?
If the PDF is secured with a permissions password, modifying document properties and metadata will be restricted. You must first go to File > Properties > Security and enter the permissions password to unlock the document for editing.
Can I edit XML metadata directly in a web browser?
Most standard web browsers only act as basic PDF viewers and do not have the capability to edit PDF metadata or XML properties. You will need dedicated PDF software like Adobe Acrobat or WPS Office to modify these fields.




