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How to Work on Multiple PDF Documents Simultaneously
Question details
The user needs a method to open and view multiple PDF files concurrently to perform multitasking tasks, such as filling out a PDF form while reading a reference book.
- Product
- PDF Reader
- Device & OS
- not provided
- Scenario
- Multitasking with several PDF files, requiring the ability to cross-reference one document while actively editing or filling out another.
- Observed behavior
- The user wants to keep multiple PDF documents open either side-by-side or in separate accessible windows without having to close the current file.
Ensure you have your primary PDF reader installed and locate the PDF files you need to open on your local drive.
Use a PDF Reader alongside a Web Browser
Open one PDF in your dedicated PDF software and the other in a web browser to view them side-by-side on your screen.
This is the quickest method if your default PDF reader does not support splitting the screen natively. Modern web browsers have built-in PDF viewers that work perfectly for reading reference materials.
Launch Adobe Acrobat Reader or your default PDF software and open the first document, such as the form you need to fill out.
Navigate to the folder containing your second PDF, right-click the file, select 'Open with', and choose a web browser like Google Chrome or Microsoft Edge.
Click and drag the title bars of both the PDF software and the web browser to position them side-by-side on your screen for simultaneous viewing.
Use Tabbed Viewing in a PDF Editor
Utilize a modern PDF editor that supports opening multiple documents in separate tabs within the same application window.
Easily Manage Multiple PDFs with WPS Office
WPS Office includes a robust built-in PDF reader and editor that natively supports multi-tab viewing and window splitting. You can seamlessly view, fill forms, and compare multiple PDF documents simultaneously within a single, lightweight application.
- 1. Download and open WPS Office: Install WPS Office and launch the application, then click on the 'PDF' section from the home screen.
- 2. Open your first PDF: Click 'Open' and select the first PDF document you wish to work on.
- 3. Open additional PDFs in new tabs: Open your secondary PDF files; they will automatically load in new tabs at the top of the workspace.
- 4. Split the view: To view them simultaneously, click on the 'View' tab in the ribbon menu and select the split-screen option, or simply drag a tab out to create a separate window.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I split the screen to view two PDFs within the same application?
Yes, many advanced PDF editors, including WPS Office, offer a split-screen or multi-window feature under the 'View' tab, allowing you to align two documents vertically or horizontally without needing separate software.
Why do my PDFs keep opening in the same tab instead of a new one?
This depends on your specific PDF reader's settings. Check the application's preferences or settings menu for a multitasking or viewing option like 'Open documents in new tabs' and ensure it is enabled.
How do I force a PDF to open in my browser instead of my default PDF reader?
Right-click the PDF file on your computer, select 'Open with' from the context menu, and choose your preferred web browser, such as Chrome, Edge, or Firefox. This bypasses the default application temporarily.
