How to extract pages from a PDF
Sometimes you only need part of a long PDF: one invoice from a statement, a single chapter, or the signature page. Extracting those pages gives you a smaller file that is quicker to send and keeps everything else private.
Know which page numbers you need
Page numbers are counted from the first page of the file, not from the number printed on the page. A document with a cover and contents page may start its printed numbering several pages in. Open the PDF and watch the page counter in your viewer to find the true position.
Extract the pages
- Open Split PDF and add your file. The tool shows how many pages it has.
- In Pages to keep, type what you want, separated by commas, for example 1-3, 5, 8-10.
- Press Split PDF and download the new file.
By default every page is saved as its own PDF and you receive a ZIP. Untick the Save each page as a separate PDF option to get the chosen pages together in a single PDF instead.
After extracting
- Combine pieces from different files into one with Merge PDF.
- Still too big to send? Try Compress PDF, keeping in mind that it turns text into images.
Examples of what to type
- One page: type 4.
- A range: type 3-7 for pages 3 to 7.
- Several pieces: type 1-3, 5, 8-10.
- Everything except page 4 of a ten-page file: type 1-3, 5-10.
Use commas between items and a dash for a run of pages. Check the page counter in your viewer first, since the number printed on a page can differ from its position in the file.
Real situations
- Sending one invoice from a long monthly statement without sharing the rest.
- Pulling the signed page out of a contract to attach to another document.
- Taking a single chapter from a report to share with a colleague.
- Removing a cover sheet or a blank page before you submit a form.
One file or many?
By default each chosen page is saved as its own PDF and you get a ZIP. That suits a batch of single-page forms. For one document containing just the pages you chose, untick the option that saves each page separately. After that, you can join pieces from different files into one with Merge PDF.
Before you share the result
Open the new file and check that it holds exactly the pages you meant. If the original contained private details on other pages, extracting is a good way to share only what is needed, but confirm that the pages you kept do not include anything else sensitive, such as an account number in a header.
Frequently asked questions
Does extracting pages change the text or images?
No. The pages are copied as they are, so text stays selectable and images keep their quality.
How do I delete pages instead?
List every page except the ones you want to remove, and download the result.
Can I extract pages from a password-protected PDF?
Remove the password first with Unlock PDF, then extract the pages.
Can I extract pages from a scanned PDF?
Yes. A scan is a set of page images, and pages are copied across as they are.
Does the original file change?
No. You get a new file and your original stays as it was.
Is there a limit on how many pages I can pick?
No set limit. You can pick any pages that exist in the file.