Other PDF Issues

How to Restore Alphabetical Quick-Jump Index in Adobe Acrobat for iPad

Huda Qurayshi Oct 19, 2026 868 views

Question details

The alphabetical quick-jump index for navigating PDF files disappeared in Adobe Acrobat Reader on iPad.

How to Restore the Alphabetical Quick-Jump Index in Adobe Acrobat Reader for iPad

Product: Adobe Acrobat Reader
Device & OS: iPadOS
Scenario: Navigating large lists of PDF files and folders quickly on an iPad.
Observed behavior: The alphabetical index along the right side of the file browser is missing, making it difficult to jump to specific documents efficiently.

Before you start

Ensure your iPad is connected to Wi-Fi so you can access the App Store to download the required application updates.

Solution 1Recommended

Update Acrobat Reader and Change Sorting to Name

Updating the application to version 18.10.01 or newer and setting the file sort order to 'Name' will restore the quick-jump index.

The quick-jump index feature is tied directly to the alphabetical sorting method in updated versions of Adobe Acrobat Reader. If your files are sorted by date or size, the index will remain hidden.

Update the App

Open the App Store on your iPad, search for Adobe Acrobat Reader, and update the app to version 18.10.01 or later.

Open File Browser

Launch the Acrobat Reader app and tap on 'Files' from the bottom navigation menu.

Select Storage Location

Choose the location where your documents are stored, such as 'On This iPad', 'Document Cloud', or 'Dropbox'.

Sort by Name

Tap the sorting icon at the top of the file list and select 'Name' to sort your files and folders alphabetically. The A-Z index will now appear along the right side of the screen.

Update Acrobat Reader and Change Sorting to Name

Index Restored: You can now tap and drag your finger along the letters on the right edge to jump instantly to files starting with that letter.

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Use WPS Office to Seamlessly View and Manage PDFs on iPad

WPS Office provides a highly optimized, easy-to-navigate PDF reader for iPad. You can quickly sort, search, and manage your PDF files without worrying about disappearing navigation features.

1. Install WPS Office: Download WPS Office directly from the Apple App Store on your iPad.
2. Open PDF Manager: Launch the app and tap on the 'PDF' tab or go to the 'Files' section to access your documents.
3. Navigate and Manage Files: Use the built-in view controls to arrange your PDFs alphabetically or by recent usage for instant access.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Why did the alphabetical index disappear from my Adobe Acrobat app?

Adobe altered the index feature in previous software updates. Updating to version 18.10.01 or later and ensuring your files are sorted by name forces the alphabetical index to display again.

Can I use the quick-jump index if my files are sorted by date?

No, in Adobe Acrobat Reader for iPad, the alphabetical quick-jump index only appears when the files and folders are explicitly sorted by name. Sorting by date or size disables the alphabetical sidebar.

How do I check my current version of Adobe Acrobat Reader on iPad?

Open the Adobe Acrobat app, tap the Profile or Settings gear icon in the top corner, and scroll to the bottom of the menu to find the version number listed under 'About'.

Is there an alternative way to quickly find a specific PDF on my iPad?

Yes, you can use the search bar located at the top of the file browser in Acrobat Reader, or use the native Apple 'Files' app search functionality to type in the document name.

PDF Troubleshooting