How to Open PDF Links in a Second Window or Document
Question details
The user wants to configure a hyperlink within a PDF so that clicking it opens the destination in a second window or a separately open PDF, rather than replacing the current document view.
- Product
- PDF Reader
- Device & OS
- not provided
- Scenario
- Clicking a hyperlink inside a PDF file to reference another location or document without losing the place in the primary document.
- Observed behavior
- The PDF reader normally navigates links in the active document window, failing to reliably send the destination to a separately selected window or another open PDF.
Ensure you have the necessary permissions to edit the PDF document and verify that your PDF reader's security settings allow JavaScript execution if you plan to use advanced script-based links.
Open Documents Separately and Navigate Manually
Because standard PDF link actions default to the active window, manually opening the second document is the most reliable, universally compatible workaround.
Standard PDF specifications do not natively support opening inter-document links in a secondary window for all PDF viewers. Manually managing your workspace avoids compatibility and security blocks.
Launch your PDF reader and open the main document containing your source links.
Locate the target PDF file on your computer and open it in a separate tab or a new application window.
Snap the two application windows side-by-side or use your PDF viewer's tabbed interface to easily switch between the main document and the reference document.
Configure Links Using Acrobat JavaScript
For advanced workflows, use custom JavaScript within the PDF to instruct the application to open the destination file in a new window.
Seamlessly Manage Multiple PDFs with WPS Office Tabbed Interface
WPS Office simplifies document management with a built-in tabbed viewing experience. You can insert links to other files and seamlessly open them in a new tab without losing your place in the original PDF, completely bypassing complex JavaScript workarounds.
- 1. Open WPS Office: Launch WPS Office and open your primary PDF document.
- 2. Access the Link Tool: Navigate to the 'Edit' tab and click on the 'Link' button to add a new hyperlink.
- 3. Link to Another File: Select the area for the link, choose the option to 'Open a File', and browse for your secondary PDF document.
- 4. Open in a New Tab: When you click the newly created link, WPS Office will conveniently open the second document in a new tab alongside your current view.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why do PDF links replace my current view instead of opening a new window?
Standard PDF specifications default to navigating links within the active window to ensure a continuous reading experience. Most basic PDF viewers do not have a built-in 'open in new window' preference for internal document links.
Can I hold Ctrl or Shift to open a PDF link in a new window?
Unlike web browsers where holding Ctrl or Shift opens a link in a new tab or window, most desktop PDF readers do not support this keyboard shortcut for internal or cross-document links.
How do I enable JavaScript in my PDF reader to allow custom links?
To enable JavaScript, open your PDF reader's Preferences or Settings menu, look for the 'JavaScript' or 'Security' category, and check the box that says 'Enable Acrobat JavaScript' or similar, then restart the application.
