How to Split PDFs into Smaller Files in Adobe Acrobat
Question details
The user needs to split a PDF into multiple smaller files but is unsure which Adobe Acrobat plan supports this feature, as it is missing from their current version.
- Product
- Adobe Acrobat
- Device & OS
- not provided
- Scenario
- Attempting to divide a large PDF document into smaller sections or individual files.
- Observed behavior
- The 'Split PDF' feature is missing or unavailable, likely because the current subscription plan does not support direct PDF splitting.
Verify your current Adobe subscription plan in your account settings, and make sure you have a backup copy of your original PDF document before making any page deletions or splits.
Upgrade or Use Adobe Acrobat Standard/Pro
The Split feature is natively available in Acrobat Standard and Pro versions.
If you have an active subscription to Adobe Acrobat Standard or Acrobat Pro, the Split tool is built directly into the software. Starter plans or free readers do not include this feature.
Open your PDF in Adobe Acrobat Standard or Pro. Go to 'Tools' in the top menu and select 'Organize Pages'.
Click the 'Split' button located in the secondary toolbar.
Choose how you want to split the file from the dropdown menu. You can split by number of pages, maximum file size, or top-level bookmarks.
Click 'Output Options' to specify a target folder for the new files and set file naming preferences. Click 'OK', then click the 'Split' button to generate the smaller files.
Use the Online Organize Pages Service as a Workaround
If you only have the Adobe PDF Pack, you can use the online service to delete unwanted pages and save multiple copies.
Split PDFs Easily for Free with WPS Office
Don't want to pay for an expensive Adobe Acrobat Pro subscription just to split a PDF? WPS Office provides a comprehensive PDF toolkit that lets you split, merge, and edit PDF files effortlessly without a premium Adobe plan.
- 1. Open your PDF in WPS Office: Launch WPS Office and open the large PDF document you wish to split.
- 2. Access the Split tool: Navigate to the 'Page' tab on the top ribbon and click on 'Split PDF'.
- 3. Set your split preferences: In the dialog box, select whether you want to split the document by a specific page range or by a set number of pages per file.
- 4. Save the split files: Choose your desired output directory at the bottom of the window and click 'Split' to instantly generate your smaller PDF files.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is the Split PDF option missing in my Adobe Acrobat?
The Split PDF feature is exclusive to Adobe Acrobat Standard and Acrobat Pro plans. If you are using Acrobat Reader, a Starter plan, or Adobe PDF Pack, this native tool will not be available.
Can I split a PDF file based on file size?
Yes, if you have Adobe Acrobat Standard or Pro, you can choose to split your PDF by maximum file size, number of pages, or top-level bookmarks via the Organize Pages tool.
Is there a way to split PDFs without an Adobe subscription?
Yes, you can use alternative PDF software like WPS Office, or various free online PDF splitting tools, to divide your documents without needing a paid Adobe Acrobat subscription.
