How to Cut, Copy and Paste Text in PDFs: 4 Tricks

The PDF format, although it has been around for quite some time, remains the favored choice for documents in both professional settings and other contexts. Nevertheless, this file type presents a notable drawback when compared to traditional text files associated with word processors, specifically its limited ability to be modified.
When it comes to copying, cutting, or pasting text, this particular type of extension is undoubtedly not the most appropriate choice. PDFs are inherently designed to be static in nature. However, this does not imply that accessing the files is impossible.
This article aims to elucidate the methods for editing text within a PDF by employing a few simple techniques. It is important to note, however, that if the document is derived from a scanned paper or if the original creator has restricted text editing capabilities, you will be unable to modify the textual content in any manner.
Cut, Copy and Paste Text with a PDF Reader
Numerous free PDF readers available provide users with the capability to input text without the aforementioned restrictions.
If you are utilizing the widely recognized Adobe Acrobat Reader, you have the option to select and copy any segment of text. After copying the desired text, simply right-click and choose the “Insert text at cursor” option.
Besides allowing the use of text blocks, Acrobat Reader also enables users to insert their signatures into any PDF document. To accomplish this, one must select the Fill & Sign option located in the menu at the top of the interface. However, if you are seeking a PDF reader tailored specifically for this function, it may be advisable to consider alternative options.
In this regard, Foxit Reader proves to be significantly more efficient. The feature designed for inserting text within this software is referred to as Typewriter, which can be found in the Home menu.
In addition to its primary features, Foxit Reader offers various options for editing text within PDF documents. Utilizing specialized tools, users can apply different styles of underlining, highlight sections of text, and employ a “virtual” pencil and eraser for modifications on the document.
For those who may find themselves dissatisfied with either Acrobat Reader or Foxit Reader, numerous alternative PDF readers are available that provide comparable functionalities. Notable examples include the highly efficient Sumatra PDF, recognized for its lightweight design, and the widely used Google Drive.
Use a PDF editing software
Editing a PDF in a Browser
Use a PDF to document converter
The task may appear somewhat complex; however, it is occasionally essential. We are referring to the process of converting a PDF file into a Word document and subsequently reverting it to PDF format.
Similar to other methods, this approach provides various solutions utilizing both well-known and lesser-known software. For the sake of clarity, this article will focus on executing the multiple conversions using a particular application, specifically PDF Wiz.
What is the rationale behind this selection? This program is available at no cost and can convert PDF files into multiple formats, including .doc, .docx, and .txt, through a straightforward process. Nevertheless, PDF Wiz has a significant drawback: the free version permits the conversion of only a single page from a PDF document.
If this limitation does not meet your requirements, an alternative option is Google Docs. You can upload your PDF to Google Drive and subsequently open it in Google Docs. This allows you to edit the document and save it as a new file, which can then be converted back into PDF format.
Frequently Asked Questions
In closing this guide, we address several questions you might have regarding PDFs and the processing of their text.
Why can’t I cut and paste from a PDF?
If you are unable to copy and paste content from a PDF file, it indicates that the source is write-protected. Most consumer-grade PDF editing software struggles to bypass these restrictions; however, you may discover some useful tools available online.