How to Make PDF Files with Mac OS X

This document tells you how to generate PDF files on a Macintosh computer. PDF files are useful when you need to share a file with someone who uses a different kind of computer or applications from you. They can also be used when printing with MPrint.

About PDF Files

PDF stands for Portable Document Format. PDF is a file format developed by Adobe Systems that captures formatting information and allows the file to be displayed or printed on multiple computers and printers in its original format. Mac OS X includes the Preview program for opening PDF files.

How to Generate PDF Files

1. Open the document from which you want to generate a PDF file.

2. Under the File menu, select Print.

3. In the Print dialog box:

   1. 
      click the PDF button.

   2. from the pull-down menu, select Save as PDF.

4. In the Save dialog box:

   1. 
      accept the default name or enter the name you wish to call the pdf document
      IMPORTANT: The name of your file should end in .pdf. Make sure the Hide Extension checkbox is not checked.

   2. select where you want the file to be saved.

   3. if desired, make changes in these fields.

   4. click Save.

Additional Resources

Visit ITS's Information System to obtain ITS computer documentation and other resources. A list of relevant documents follows:

• Understanding Your Standard Computing Services (S4260)

• Printing to Campus Printers with MPrint (S4350)

• Generating PostScript Files with Windows (S4309)

The ITS Service Center provides a variety of computing help resources.

For further help with this or any other topic, send an e-mail, phone 734-764-HELP [4357] or submit an online service request.