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Differences between Editable and Flattened PDF Formats

When exporting a page or Workbook to a PDF, you have the option to select between two formats: Editable and Flattened PDF. In most cases, Flattened PDFs are recommended due to their smaller file size, compatibility with most PDF viewers, and the ability to make handwritten text searchable, similar to regular text. However, if you wish to preserve outlines or hyperlinks in the exported PDF, opting for the Editable PDF Format is necessary. The distinctions between the two formats are summarized below.

Editable

  • Handwriting is not searchable.
  • Objects (images, text boxes, handwriting, highlighting) on the page can be selected and moved/resized in other PDF viewers.
  • Document outlines are preserved.
  • Hyperlinks in the original PDF text are preserved.

Flattened

  • Handwriting can be searched, selected, and copied if "Enable Handwriting Recognition" is enabled in the Export dialog. Copying the handwriting will copy the recognized characters to the clipboard.
  • Document outlines are not preserved.
  • Hyperlinks in the original PDF text are not preserved.
  • Recommended for better viewing results in a PDF Viewer.