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PDF Editor Linux: How to Edit PDF on Linux

August 21, 2023 2.7K views

Discover PDF editing on Linux through our comprehensive guide. Addressing concerns about installation complexity, we provide step-by-step instructions on downloading and using Linux edit PDF. Moreover, we introduce a better software alternative, offering a seamless PDF editing experience. Gain insights into Linux's potential and make informed decisions for your PDF editing needs. Unleash the power of Linux or explore efficient alternatives for enhanced productivity. Let’s try because Linux edits pdf for free.

Part 1. 3 Softwares to Read and Edit PDF on Linux

                                               

In this part, we will explore three software options for reading and editing PDF files on Linux: WPS Office, LibreOffice, and Master PDF Editor. We will provide a step-by-step guide for each software, along with their pros and cons.

WPS Office:

                                               

WPS Office is a powerful and user-friendly office suite that offers a comprehensive set of tools for word processing, spreadsheets, and presentations. Apart from its core functionalities, WPS Office also provides PDF editing capabilities, making it a versatile solution for managing documents on Linux. With its intuitive interface and support for various file formats, WPS Office is an excellent choice for both beginners and experienced users.

Pros:

  • User-friendly interface.

  • Supports various file formats, including Microsoft Office formats.

  • Basic PDF editing features.

  • Compatible with Windows and Linux.

Cons:

  • Some advanced PDF editing features are limited.

  • May not handle complex PDF layouts perfectly.

Here's a step-by-step tutorial on how to read and edit PDF files on Linux using WPS Office:

Step 1: Install WPS Office from the official website: https://www.wps.com/office/linux/ or follow the installation guide for Linux Mint: https://linuxhint.com/install-wps-office-linux-mint/

Step 2: Launch WPS Office Writer.

Step 3: Open a PDF file by clicking "File" > "Open" or Ctrl + O.

Step 4: Read and view the PDF content in WPS Office Writer.

Step 5: To edit text, click on the text, make changes, and adjust formatting.

Step 6: Save your changes by clicking "Save" or Ctrl + S.

Step 7: To save as PDF, click "File" > "Export to PDF."

LibreOffice:

LibreOffice is a widely recognized, open-source office suite that includes a word processor, spreadsheet editor, presentation creator, and more. One of its notable components, LibreOffice Draw, allows users to open and edit PDF files. As an open-source software, LibreOffice is freely available to users and has a strong community of developers, continuously improving its features and compatibility. With its extensive set of tools and cross-platform support, LibreOffice is an excellent option for those seeking a full-featured office suite with PDF editing capabilities on Linux.

Pros:

  • Full-featured office suite.

  • Cross-platform support (Windows, macOS, and Linux).

  • Handles complex PDF layouts.

Cons:

  • Interface may be overwhelming for some users.

  • Some advanced PDF editing features are limited.

Here's a step-by-step tutorial on how to read and edit PDF files on Linux using LibreOffice:

Step 1: Download and install LibreOffice from the official website.

Step 2: Open LibreOffice Draw.

Step 3: Click "Open" and select the PDF file you want to edit.

Step 4: Read and view the PDF content.

Step 5: To edit, click on the "T" icon, then click on the text you want to edit, and make the changes.

Step 6: Save the changes by clicking "Export as PDF" and choose a location to save the file.

Master PDF Editor:

Master PDF Editor is a dedicated PDF editing application designed to provide advanced editing features for PDF files on Linux. It allows users to edit text, images, add annotations, and perform other essential PDF manipulations. Although not free for all features, Master PDF Editor offers a user-friendly interface and precise control over PDF content. If you need a specialized tool with a focus on PDF editing, Master PDF Editor is an excellent choice for your Linux system.

Pros:

  • Dedicated PDF editing software.

  • User-friendly interface.

  • Available for Linux and other platforms.

Cons:

  • Some advanced features require purchasing a license.

  • Interface may not be as modern as other software.

Here's a step-by-step tutorial on how to read and edit PDF files on Linux using Master PDF Editor:

Step 1: Download and install Master PDF Editor from the official website.

Step 2: Open Master PDF Editor.

Step 3: Click "Open" and select the PDF file you want to edit.

Step 4: Read and view the PDF content.

Step 5: To edit, click on the "Edit" tab, then click on the text you want to edit, and make the changes.

Step 6: Save the changes by clicking "Save" or "Save As."

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Part 2. How to Merge and Compress PDF on Linux?

Combine PDF: 

Here's a simple step-by-step guide on how to combine PDF files in WPS Office on Linux:

Step 1: Install WPS Office on Linux from the official website.

Step 2: Open WPS Office Writer.

Step 3: Create a new blank document.

Step 4: Click "Insert" > "File" to import each PDF file.

Step 5: Rearrange pages if needed by clicking on "Page Thumbnails."

Step 6: Click "File" > "Save As" to save the combined PDF file.

Compress PDF: 

Here's a step-by-step tutorial on how to compress PDF files in WPS Office on Linux:

Step 1: Install WPS Office on Linux from the official website.

Step 2: Open WPS Office Writer.

Step 3: Click "File" > "Open" and select the PDF file you want to compress.

Step 4: Click "File" > "Compress Pictures" and adjust the quality and resolution.

Step 5: Click "OK" to apply the compression.

Step 6: Click "File" > "Save As" to save the compressed PDF file.

Here's a brief step-by-step tutorial on how to sign a PDF in WPS Office on Linux:

Step 1: Install WPS Office on Linux from the official website.

Step 2: Open WPS Office Writer.

Step 3: Click "File" > "Open" and select the PDF file you want to sign.

Step 4: Click "Insert" > "Picture" > "From File" and choose an image of your signature.

Step 5: Position and resize the signature on the PDF.

Step 6: Click "File" > "Save As" to save the signed PDF.

FAQs

1. How to Choose a Right Distro on Linux?

Choosing the right Linux distribution (distro) depends on various factors and personal preferences. Here's a simple guide to help you make the right choice:

Step 1: Assess Your Requirements: Consider your skill level, purpose of use, hardware compatibility, and preferred desktop environment.

Step 2: Evaluate Distros: Check package manager, software repository, community support, release cycle, and system requirements.

Step 3: Try Live Versions: Download and test live versions of shortlisted distros to experience their user interface and performance.

Step 4: Make an Informed Decision: Choose the distro that best aligns with your needs and preferences and proceed with the full installation.

2. Add Text Box to PDF on Linux?

Here's a simple guide on how to add a text box to a PDF on Linux using online tools:

Method 1: Using Online Tools

Step 1: Open an online PDF editing tool like DocHub or PDFfiller.

Step 2: Upload your PDF file and find the "Text Box" or "Add Text" option.

Step 3: Click on the area to add the text box, type your text, and adjust its properties.

Step 4: Save the edited PDF.

Method 2: Using PDF Editing Software

Step 1: Install PDF editing software like Master PDF Editor, PDF Studio, or Okular.

Step 2: Open the PDF file in the software and locate the "Text Box" tool.

Step 3: Click and drag on the PDF to add the text box, type your text, and adjust its properties.

Step 4: Save the edited PDF.

With these methods, you can easily add text boxes to PDFs on Linux using online tools or installed PDF editing software.

Summary

Discover PDF editing on Linux with a comprehensive guide covering installation, tools, and techniques. Emphasizing WPS Office as a PDF editor, explore three software options: WPS Office, LibreOffice, and Master PDF Editor, with step-by-step guides and pros and cons. Learn to merge, compress, and sign PDFs using WPS Office. Make informed decisions by considering factors to choose the right Linux distribution. Elevate your productivity and PDF editing capabilities on Linux with ease.

15 years of office industry experience, tech lover and copywriter. Follow me for product reviews, comparisons, and recommendations for new apps and software.