The easiest way to convert almost anything to PDF on Windows is to print it to the built-in Microsoft Print to PDF printer: press Ctrl + P, choose that printer, click Print and name the file. Office apps can also save straight to PDF with File > Save As (or Export) and PDF as the file type. Both options are free and need no extra software.
Quick Answer
Ctrl + P > Printer: Microsoft Print to PDF > Print > choose a name and folder > Save.
Steps to Convert Using Print to PDF
- Open the document, web page or image.
- Press Ctrl + P.
- Choose Microsoft Print to PDF as the printer.
- Set the pages, orientation and paper size.
- Click Print, then pick a folder and file name and click Save.
Other Ways to Make a PDF
| Source | Method |
|---|---|
| Word, Excel, PowerPoint | File > Save As or Export > PDF (keeps links and headings) |
| Web page | Browser Print > Save as PDF |
| Photos (JPG, PNG) | Select images > right-click > Print > Microsoft Print to PDF |
| HEIC photos | Open in Photos and print to PDF |
Need to go the other way? Here is how to convert a PDF to JPG on Windows.
Building slides? See making a word cloud in PowerPoint.
Related: How to Combine a PDF and a Word Document.
Troubleshooting
- PDF printer missing: Open Windows Features (Turn Windows features on or off) and tick Microsoft Print to PDF.
- Links don’t work in the PDF: Printing flattens links. Use Save As PDF in Office instead.
- More detail on printing: See printing to PDF on Windows and converting Word to PDF.
- iPhone photos: See converting HEIC to PDF on Windows.
Related: Install CorelDRAW X4 on Windows 10.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I combine several files into one PDF?
For images, select them all and print together. For documents, you’ll generally need a PDF editor to merge files.
Is it safe to use online converters?
Avoid uploading private documents to unknown sites; the built-in options work offline.
Can I edit the PDF afterwards?
Basic markup is possible in a browser. Full editing needs a PDF editor, or edit the original and convert again.
Summary
- Press Ctrl + P.
- Choose Microsoft Print to PDF.
- Print and save the file.
- Use Save As PDF in Office to keep links.
Kermit Matthews is a freelance writer based in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania with more than a decade of experience writing technology guides. He has a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Computer Science and has spent much of his professional career in IT management.
He specializes in writing content about iPhones, Android devices, Microsoft Office, and many other popular applications and devices.