What Is a PDF?

What Is a PDF and What Does PDF Stand For?

A PDF is a free open standard file format. PDF stands for Portable Document Format. PDFs are usually created in an application of the user’s choice—Adobe InDesign, Microsoft Word, etc.— by exporting the project as a PDF file format.

This preserves the fonts, images, and layout of the source document exactly as it was created, and allows the creator to share it electronically without messing with the format. The PDF document can be viewed and printed on any device, independent of the operating system or software.

As PDFs don’t rely on the software that created them, nor on any specific digital device or operating system, they look the same no matter what device they’re opened on.

TriFold BrochureTriFold BrochureTriFold Brochure
This InDesign brochure template from Envato Elements can be exported as a PDF.

PDF documents can contain text, images, links, interactive buttons, form fields, audio, video, and more. They can be signed electronically, and PDFs can also be edited if they’re not protected by using programs like Adobe Acrobat, Microsoft Word, Sejda PDF Editor, etc. 

If you want to learn more about what a PDF file is, head on over to our Envato Tuts+ YouTube channel to follow along with this video:

Here are other amazing guides you can check out:

How to Create a PDF

Learning how to create a PDF is relatively simple. In programs like Microsoft Word and Apple Pages, after you create your document, you go to File > Print > Save to PDF. And in programs like Adobe InDesign, you go to File > Export > Format > Adobe PDF.

How to create a PDF?How to create a PDF?How to create a PDF?

For more information on creating PDFs, check out these helpful articles.

Find the Best InDesign Templates for Making PDFs

If you want to create magazines, resumes, flyers, and brochures that will be eventually converted to PDF for printing or sharing on the web, the quickest and most cost-effective way to do so is to start with an InDesign template. Templates offer professional layouts and placeholders for text, images, and graphics that you can edit to create the exact look you want.

Find over 2,000 InDesign templates on Envato Elements for all your needs.Find over 2,000 InDesign templates on Envato Elements for all your needs.Find over 2,000 InDesign templates on Envato Elements for all your needs.
Find over 2,000 InDesign templates on Envato Elements for all your needs.

When you’re looking for premium InDesign templates, Envato Elements is a great source. The service offers unlimited downloads of millions of premium digital assets, including various graphic templates, mockups, logos, photos, fonts, and more, for one low monthly fee. You get a 7-day free trial, and you can unsubscribe whenever you wish.

Get a Free Trial

Here’s a selection of the best creative InDesign templates to help you get started on the right foot and export your brand new projects as PDFs.

InDesign Resume Templates

1. Unique InDesign Resume Template (INDD, DOCX, PDF)

Unique InDesign Resume Template (INDD, DOCX, PDF)Unique InDesign Resume Template (INDD, DOCX, PDF)Unique InDesign Resume Template (INDD, DOCX, PDF)

Do you want to grab the recruiter’s attention with your CV? You need a different PDF resume! This InDesign resume template is a fantastic option thanks to its eye-catching layout! 

Easily customize it in InDesign or MS Word, and don’t forget to export it as a PDF for any job application!

2. Creative InDesign Template for CVs (INDD, DOC, PDF)

Professional CV Resume Indesign Template Vol.18Professional CV Resume Indesign Template Vol.18Professional CV Resume Indesign Template Vol.18

Ready to update your CV? This InDesign resume template is made for you. Its modern layout suits a number of professionals, and it is super easy to customise in InDesign or Word.

3. CV InDesign Resume Template (INDD, DOC, PDF)

Professional CV Resume Indesign Template Vol.1Professional CV Resume Indesign Template Vol.1Professional CV Resume Indesign Template Vol.1

Need a CV template to impress? How about this InDesign resume template? This professional and modern template is great for a range of professionals, from businesspeople to entrepreneurs to designers and much more. The A4 template includes two versions in yellow and silver. All graphics are resizable and editable. 

InDesign Magazine Templates

1. Adobe InDesign Template for Magazines (INDD)

InDesign Magazine TemplateInDesign Magazine TemplateInDesign Magazine Template

When you decide to create a magazine that offers something a bit different from the others out there, you’re going to need a terrific template. This InDesign magazine template is it. It offers 32 unique layouts, all of which are fully editable. Choose the pages you need, replace the image placeholders with your own photos, add your text, and change the colour scheme to suit your brand. 

2. Lightazine InDesign Magazine Template (INDD)

Lightazine InDesign TemplateLightazine InDesign TemplateLightazine InDesign Template

How about this terrific InDesign magazine template for creating a truly unique and eye-catching zine? Lightazine INDD template offers 32 stylish page layouts in both A4 and US Letter size templates. Download this stunning template and get to work creating a product you can be proud of.

3. Adobe InDesign Template for Travel Magazines (INDD)

InDesign Magazine TemplateInDesign Magazine TemplateInDesign Magazine Template

Just drop your own pictures and text into this stunning InDesign magazine template for travel-related content, and it’s ready for print. That’s the beauty of using professional templates—they take care of the design part, so you can focus on your content. The template includes 28 unique pages in both A4 and US Letter size.

InDesign Invoice Templates

1. InDesign Invoice Template (INDD, PSD)

InDesign Invoice Template (INDD, PSD)InDesign Invoice Template (INDD, PSD)InDesign Invoice Template (INDD, PSD)

If you’re looking for a simple InDesign invoice template, this is the one for you. Just fill in your information and export it in PDF. You’ll get a professional PDF invoice in a few clicks!

2. Clean InDesign Invoice Template (INDD)

Clean InDesign Invoice Template (INDD)Clean InDesign Invoice Template (INDD)Clean InDesign Invoice Template (INDD)

For fans of minimalist design, this invoice template is the right choice. You’ll have a super clean and minimal invoice ready to be exported in PDF.

3. Colorful InDesign Invoice Template (INDD, DOCX, PDF)

Colorful InDesign Invoice template (INDD, DOCX, PDF)Colorful InDesign Invoice template (INDD, DOCX, PDF)Colorful InDesign Invoice template (INDD, DOCX, PDF)

On the other hand, a touch of colour never hurts. If this InDesign invoice template fits your brand or business, this is a great option. You can edit your invoice in InDesign or MS Word and change the colour of the header. You’ll have a nice PDF invoice ready to go.

InDesign Brochure Templates

1. Galina: Brochure InDesign Layout Template (INDD)

Galina - Brochure Template IndesignGalina - Brochure Template IndesignGalina - Brochure Template Indesign

This gorgeous InDesign brochure template offers a clean, modern aesthetic that’s perfect for any type of company, organisation, or individual use. The template offers 22 unique layouts in A4 and US Letter size. Use it to create your next powerful and unforgettable promotional campaign.

2. Business Brochure Abobe InDesign Template (IDML, INDD)

Business Brochure IndesignBusiness Brochure IndesignBusiness Brochure Indesign

This Business InDesign brochure template offers enough variety in page layouts to create outstanding brochures. The A4 template is easy to customise. Just select your preferred pages from the 24 offered, replace the placeholder images with your own images, add your text and brand colours, and your brochure is ready to export to PDF.

3. Creative InDesign Brochure Template (INDD)

You deserve the best when creating a brochure for your business, so choose this creative InDesign template. The A4 InDesign brochure template offers 12 stunning page layouts, giving you plenty of options for creating a document that meets your needs. The template is fully editable, so you can easily add your own images, text, and colour scheme.

InDesign Portfolio Templates

1. Lonest Photography Portfolio Template (INDD)

Lonest Photography Portfolio Template (INDD)Lonest Photography Portfolio Template (INDD)Lonest Photography Portfolio Template (INDD)

This is one of the most popular InDesign portfolio templates on Envato Elements. It features a modern and minimalist design. It’s perfect for photographers, but you can adapt it to any creative field.

2. Graphic Design Portfolio Template (INDD)

Graphic Design Portfolio Template (INDD)Graphic Design Portfolio Template (INDD)Graphic Design Portfolio Template (INDD)

If you like to use colours and clean typography and design, this InDesign portfolio template is a great option. Use it for a graphic design portfolio or adapt it to any field. Don’t forget to export it as a PDF for easy printing!

3. Square Portfolio Book (INDD)

Square Portfolio Book (INDD)Square Portfolio Book (INDD)Square Portfolio Book (INDD)

If you want to stand out with your portfolio, using a different size is a great option. This square InDesign portfolio template features a fantastic layout. You’ll also find landscape templates and more on Envato Elements.

Choose Your Favourite InDesign Template

Now you know what a PDF file is, what PDF stands for, and where to find great InDesign templates that you can convert to PDF. If you haven’t found an INDD template here that quite fits your needs, don’t worry—there are plenty of others to choose from at Envato Elements, so head on over and select your favourite INDD template to download as part of your 7-day free trial.

Envato Elements Free Trial

And finally, if you want more information on PDFs and InDesign templates, check out these really helpful articles below:  

Editorial Note: This post has been updated with contributions from Maria Villanueva. Maria is the Associate Editor of the Tuts+ Design channel.


This content originally appeared on Envato Tuts+ Tutorials and was authored by Nona Blackman

What Is a PDF and What Does PDF Stand For?

A PDF is a free open standard file format. PDF stands for Portable Document Format. PDFs are usually created in an application of the user's choice—Adobe InDesign, Microsoft Word, etc.— by exporting the project as a PDF file format.

This preserves the fonts, images, and layout of the source document exactly as it was created, and allows the creator to share it electronically without messing with the format. The PDF document can be viewed and printed on any device, independent of the operating system or software.

As PDFs don't rely on the software that created them, nor on any specific digital device or operating system, they look the same no matter what device they're opened on.

TriFold BrochureTriFold BrochureTriFold Brochure
This InDesign brochure template from Envato Elements can be exported as a PDF.

PDF documents can contain text, images, links, interactive buttons, form fields, audio, video, and more. They can be signed electronically, and PDFs can also be edited if they're not protected by using programs like Adobe Acrobat, Microsoft Word, Sejda PDF Editor, etc. 

If you want to learn more about what a PDF file is, head on over to our Envato Tuts+ YouTube channel to follow along with this video:

Here are other amazing guides you can check out:

How to Create a PDF

Learning how to create a PDF is relatively simple. In programs like Microsoft Word and Apple Pages, after you create your document, you go to File > Print > Save to PDF. And in programs like Adobe InDesign, you go to File > Export > Format > Adobe PDF.

How to create a PDF?How to create a PDF?How to create a PDF?

For more information on creating PDFs, check out these helpful articles.

Find the Best InDesign Templates for Making PDFs

If you want to create magazines, resumes, flyers, and brochures that will be eventually converted to PDF for printing or sharing on the web, the quickest and most cost-effective way to do so is to start with an InDesign template. Templates offer professional layouts and placeholders for text, images, and graphics that you can edit to create the exact look you want.

Find over 2,000 InDesign templates on Envato Elements for all your needs.Find over 2,000 InDesign templates on Envato Elements for all your needs.Find over 2,000 InDesign templates on Envato Elements for all your needs.
Find over 2,000 InDesign templates on Envato Elements for all your needs.

When you're looking for premium InDesign templates, Envato Elements is a great source. The service offers unlimited downloads of millions of premium digital assets, including various graphic templates, mockups, logos, photos, fonts, and more, for one low monthly fee. You get a 7-day free trial, and you can unsubscribe whenever you wish.

Get a Free Trial

Here's a selection of the best creative InDesign templates to help you get started on the right foot and export your brand new projects as PDFs.

InDesign Resume Templates

1. Unique InDesign Resume Template (INDD, DOCX, PDF)

Unique InDesign Resume Template (INDD, DOCX, PDF)Unique InDesign Resume Template (INDD, DOCX, PDF)Unique InDesign Resume Template (INDD, DOCX, PDF)

Do you want to grab the recruiter's attention with your CV? You need a different PDF resume! This InDesign resume template is a fantastic option thanks to its eye-catching layout! 

Easily customize it in InDesign or MS Word, and don't forget to export it as a PDF for any job application!

2. Creative InDesign Template for CVs (INDD, DOC, PDF)

Professional CV Resume Indesign Template Vol.18Professional CV Resume Indesign Template Vol.18Professional CV Resume Indesign Template Vol.18

Ready to update your CV? This InDesign resume template is made for you. Its modern layout suits a number of professionals, and it is super easy to customise in InDesign or Word.

3. CV InDesign Resume Template (INDD, DOC, PDF)

Professional CV Resume Indesign Template Vol.1Professional CV Resume Indesign Template Vol.1Professional CV Resume Indesign Template Vol.1

Need a CV template to impress? How about this InDesign resume template? This professional and modern template is great for a range of professionals, from businesspeople to entrepreneurs to designers and much more. The A4 template includes two versions in yellow and silver. All graphics are resizable and editable. 

InDesign Magazine Templates

1. Adobe InDesign Template for Magazines (INDD)

InDesign Magazine TemplateInDesign Magazine TemplateInDesign Magazine Template

When you decide to create a magazine that offers something a bit different from the others out there, you're going to need a terrific template. This InDesign magazine template is it. It offers 32 unique layouts, all of which are fully editable. Choose the pages you need, replace the image placeholders with your own photos, add your text, and change the colour scheme to suit your brand. 

2. Lightazine InDesign Magazine Template (INDD)

Lightazine InDesign TemplateLightazine InDesign TemplateLightazine InDesign Template

How about this terrific InDesign magazine template for creating a truly unique and eye-catching zine? Lightazine INDD template offers 32 stylish page layouts in both A4 and US Letter size templates. Download this stunning template and get to work creating a product you can be proud of.

3. Adobe InDesign Template for Travel Magazines (INDD)

InDesign Magazine TemplateInDesign Magazine TemplateInDesign Magazine Template

Just drop your own pictures and text into this stunning InDesign magazine template for travel-related content, and it’s ready for print. That's the beauty of using professional templates—they take care of the design part, so you can focus on your content. The template includes 28 unique pages in both A4 and US Letter size.

InDesign Invoice Templates

1. InDesign Invoice Template (INDD, PSD)

InDesign Invoice Template (INDD, PSD)InDesign Invoice Template (INDD, PSD)InDesign Invoice Template (INDD, PSD)

If you're looking for a simple InDesign invoice template, this is the one for you. Just fill in your information and export it in PDF. You'll get a professional PDF invoice in a few clicks!

2. Clean InDesign Invoice Template (INDD)

Clean InDesign Invoice Template (INDD)Clean InDesign Invoice Template (INDD)Clean InDesign Invoice Template (INDD)

For fans of minimalist design, this invoice template is the right choice. You'll have a super clean and minimal invoice ready to be exported in PDF.

3. Colorful InDesign Invoice Template (INDD, DOCX, PDF)

Colorful InDesign Invoice template (INDD, DOCX, PDF)Colorful InDesign Invoice template (INDD, DOCX, PDF)Colorful InDesign Invoice template (INDD, DOCX, PDF)

On the other hand, a touch of colour never hurts. If this InDesign invoice template fits your brand or business, this is a great option. You can edit your invoice in InDesign or MS Word and change the colour of the header. You'll have a nice PDF invoice ready to go.

InDesign Brochure Templates

1. Galina: Brochure InDesign Layout Template (INDD)

Galina - Brochure Template IndesignGalina - Brochure Template IndesignGalina - Brochure Template Indesign

This gorgeous InDesign brochure template offers a clean, modern aesthetic that's perfect for any type of company, organisation, or individual use. The template offers 22 unique layouts in A4 and US Letter size. Use it to create your next powerful and unforgettable promotional campaign.

2. Business Brochure Abobe InDesign Template (IDML, INDD)

Business Brochure IndesignBusiness Brochure IndesignBusiness Brochure Indesign

This Business InDesign brochure template offers enough variety in page layouts to create outstanding brochures. The A4 template is easy to customise. Just select your preferred pages from the 24 offered, replace the placeholder images with your own images, add your text and brand colours, and your brochure is ready to export to PDF.

3. Creative InDesign Brochure Template (INDD)

You deserve the best when creating a brochure for your business, so choose this creative InDesign template. The A4 InDesign brochure template offers 12 stunning page layouts, giving you plenty of options for creating a document that meets your needs. The template is fully editable, so you can easily add your own images, text, and colour scheme.

InDesign Portfolio Templates

1. Lonest Photography Portfolio Template (INDD)

Lonest Photography Portfolio Template (INDD)Lonest Photography Portfolio Template (INDD)Lonest Photography Portfolio Template (INDD)

This is one of the most popular InDesign portfolio templates on Envato Elements. It features a modern and minimalist design. It's perfect for photographers, but you can adapt it to any creative field.

2. Graphic Design Portfolio Template (INDD)

Graphic Design Portfolio Template (INDD)Graphic Design Portfolio Template (INDD)Graphic Design Portfolio Template (INDD)

If you like to use colours and clean typography and design, this InDesign portfolio template is a great option. Use it for a graphic design portfolio or adapt it to any field. Don't forget to export it as a PDF for easy printing!

3. Square Portfolio Book (INDD)

Square Portfolio Book (INDD)Square Portfolio Book (INDD)Square Portfolio Book (INDD)

If you want to stand out with your portfolio, using a different size is a great option. This square InDesign portfolio template features a fantastic layout. You'll also find landscape templates and more on Envato Elements.

Choose Your Favourite InDesign Template

Now you know what a PDF file is, what PDF stands for, and where to find great InDesign templates that you can convert to PDF. If you haven't found an INDD template here that quite fits your needs, don't worry—there are plenty of others to choose from at Envato Elements, so head on over and select your favourite INDD template to download as part of your 7-day free trial.

Envato Elements Free Trial

And finally, if you want more information on PDFs and InDesign templates, check out these really helpful articles below:  

Editorial Note: This post has been updated with contributions from Maria Villanueva. Maria is the Associate Editor of the Tuts+ Design channel.


This content originally appeared on Envato Tuts+ Tutorials and was authored by Nona Blackman


Print Share Comment Cite Upload Translate Updates
APA

Nona Blackman | Sciencx (2021-07-11T11:52:57+00:00) What Is a PDF?. Retrieved from https://www.scien.cx/2021/07/11/what-is-a-pdf/

MLA
" » What Is a PDF?." Nona Blackman | Sciencx - Sunday July 11, 2021, https://www.scien.cx/2021/07/11/what-is-a-pdf/
HARVARD
Nona Blackman | Sciencx Sunday July 11, 2021 » What Is a PDF?., viewed ,<https://www.scien.cx/2021/07/11/what-is-a-pdf/>
VANCOUVER
Nona Blackman | Sciencx - » What Is a PDF?. [Internet]. [Accessed ]. Available from: https://www.scien.cx/2021/07/11/what-is-a-pdf/
CHICAGO
" » What Is a PDF?." Nona Blackman | Sciencx - Accessed . https://www.scien.cx/2021/07/11/what-is-a-pdf/
IEEE
" » What Is a PDF?." Nona Blackman | Sciencx [Online]. Available: https://www.scien.cx/2021/07/11/what-is-a-pdf/. [Accessed: ]
rf:citation
» What Is a PDF? | Nona Blackman | Sciencx | https://www.scien.cx/2021/07/11/what-is-a-pdf/ |

Please log in to upload a file.




There are no updates yet.
Click the Upload button above to add an update.

You must be logged in to translate posts. Please log in or register.