PDF stands for Printable Document Format. PDF files can be read universally from any computer (Mac or PC) using FREE Adobe Reader software. There are many ways to create pdf files. The method below uses free software applications available over the internet. One of the best ways to add useful content to a website is to allow students and parents to download and print classroom assignments. However, if documents linked to your website are in Word format, only families who have Microsoft Office can use them. Web developers can avoid this problem by providing documents in Portable Document Format (PDF). PDFs, created by Adobe Systems, can be opened by any computer (Mac/PC). Many users already have the free reader software installed on their computers. However, providing a link to download Adobe Reader is helpful. So…how do you convert documents into PDF files? There are many ways to achieve this, though most involve a cost. However, several free PDF converters are now available. One is CUTE PDF Writer. It works in combination with another program, Ghost Script*. To install these programs:

1. Go to www.cutepdf.com/Products/CutePDF/writer.asp. Look for two download links on the left (Free Download and Free Converter).
2. Click on each download link. When prompted to OPEN or SAVE, choose SAVE; navigate to a convenient location (i.e. F: drive or Desktop). This does not actually install the program.
3. Once both programs have been downloaded, you can install them. You MUST install Ghost Script FIRST. Navigate to the location where you saved both installer files. Double-click the converter file and follow the prompts to install.
4. Double-click the CuteWriter icon and follow the prompts to install. (Note: Once the programs are actually loaded on your computer, the original installer files can be deleted.)

After installing both programs, simply open the document you wish to make into a PDF. Use the FILE menu to select PRINT. Select CutePDF Writer from the list of available printers. Click OK. Name the file and navigate to the location where you wish to save it. Now you can import a PDF to your website and create a link so students/parents can download it (see ShenTRAC FrontPage TopTips for additional instructions). Be aware that Adobe Reader does NOT allow users to edit PDF files. That is, students cannot type answers into worksheets in PDF format. *See http://prdownloads.sourceforge.net/ghostscript/gs814w32.exe?download for Ghost Script updates