Skip to main content

PDF

What is PDF? Definition and meaning

A PDF represents a Portable Document Format. It was developed by Adobe in 1993. The goal was for the file format to be independent of programs, hardware or other systems. It was designed to be openable with a free program.

The PDF format made it possible, for example, to open converted Word files without their formatting being lost in the process. In addition, content could no longer be manipulated.

Back to the Glossary

Frequently asked questions

What does PDF stand for?
PDF stands for Portable Document Format. Adobe developed it in 1993 with the aim of creating a file format that is independent of programs, hardware or other systems and can be opened with a free program.
What advantages does the PDF format offer?
A PDF preserves a document’s formatting so that it is retained when the file is opened, and it protects the content from later manipulation. The overview of functions shows what projectfacts offers around documents.
Why is the formatting retained in the PDF format?
The PDF format made it possible, for example, to open converted Word files without losing their formatting. In addition, the content could no longer be manipulated.