Many online forms, job portals and email systems limit attachments to 2 MB, 5 MB or 10 MB. A scanned CNIC, degree or bank statement can easily be larger than that. Here is how to make a PDF smaller without making it unreadable.
Why PDFs are large
- Scanned pages are stored as images, and high-resolution photos take much more space than text.
- Embedded images in reports and presentations are often far bigger than needed.
- Embedded fonts and extra data can add size.
Step by step
- Open the free PDF Compressor.
- Add your PDF. It is processed in your own browser, so the file is not uploaded to a server.
- Choose a compression level. Start with a medium setting.
- Download the result and check that the text is clear when you zoom in.
- If it is still too large, repeat with a stronger setting.
Other ways to reduce size
- Scan at 150 to 200 DPI instead of 600. This is enough for reading and much smaller.
- Use black and white for text-only documents.
- Split large files into parts with the PDF Merge and Split tool if a portal allows several uploads.
- Make a PDF from photos with Images to PDF after resizing the photos first.
Check before you send
Always open the compressed file and read the smallest text, such as numbers, stamps and signatures. Keep the original, and send the compressed copy only where size limits require it. For official or legal documents, check whether the receiver needs the original quality.