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Only a small number of people actually compress their PDF files. This is because even though PDF materials are increasingly becoming popular on the web, PDFs are still designed to provide high quality output that leaves little room for speed. In fact, even PDF files that are specifically designed for the internet is weighed down by change histories, unnecessary fonts, and unoptimized images. It is important to note though that optimizing these files will improve display speed, save bandwidth, shrink the file size, and help stop user frustration. So how exactly can you optimize your PDF files? Below are some basic guidelines to get you started:

Don’t Use Refried Images

If your graphic needs to be included as bitmaps, prepare them with minimum dimension and maximum compressibility. Take note that inserting compressed JPEG files into the PDF and then distilling them might create “artifacts” because of recompression. It is recommended for you to use back and white images instead of the colored ones so that you will be able to use newer JBIG2 which is great for monochromatic compression.

Use Vector Images

As much as possible, you need to use vector-based images for files that will normally be turned into GIF files. Vector images will scale properly and their mathematical configuration will take up less space compared to bitmaps. Similar to bitmap graphics, you can also compress vector images; you need to use the ZIP compression in PDF to do this.

Minimize Your Fonts

For small PDF files, your font size will have a significant effect on the overall size of the file. Try to limit the number of fonts on the document.

Flatten the Forms

Acrobat forms can actually take up a lot of space. The new Acrobat 8 Pro has a feature that can flatten the form fields: Choose Advanced > PDF Optimizer > Discard option. Remember that flattening the forms can make the form option unusable and the form data will be merged with the page. You also have the option to combine refried PDF files with old form pages to develop a hybrid file. In addition, if color is not required, try converting the file to grayscale.

Using these basic tips will help you get a more linear and compact PDF file that loads faster.

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