FAQ: What are PDF files?

PDF (Portable Document Format) is a file format created by Adobe Systems that lets a document be displayed with the exact same layout on different computers. Examples of PDF files include tax forms that can be downloaded and printed from the Internal Revenue Service website, or license and vehicle registration forms from the Department of Motor Vehicles website. Many manufacturers have user guides and product manuals available as a PDF file on their website. These types of documents must appear the same on every computer screen and printed, and cannot be altered.

PDF files can be viewed by the free Adobe Acrobat Reader and PDF viewers from other companies. Most computers already have Acrobat Reader installed, though your version may be out-of-date due to frequent updates to the program.

Computer Techs has a PDF tutoring worksheet on our website that you can download and print. We suggest printing it and as you use your computer and discover things that you need help with or would like to learn, write them down on the worksheet. After you’ve got about an hour’s worth of items on your sheet, contact us so that we can help you get more use from your computer.