How to Save an InDesign File as a PDF with Hyperlinks

If you are working on an InDesign project and need to share it with others or publish it online, converting it to a PDF with hyperlinks is a vital step. This ensures that users can easily navigate through your document. Follow these detailed steps to successfully save your InDesign file as a PDF with hyperlinks.

Step-by-Step Guide to Saving InDesign as a PDF with Hyperlinks

1. Open Your InDesign Document

Start by opening the InDesign file you want to export. Make sure the document is complete with all the content and hyperlinks you need to include.

2. Check Hyperlinks

Before exporting, it's essential to ensure that all links are correctly set up in your document. Go to the Window menu and select Interactive > Hyperlinks. This panel will show you all the hyperlinks in your document and help you verify their integrity.

3. Prepare for PDF Export

To export your InDesign file as a PDF with hyperlinks, follow these steps:

Go to File > Export. In the dialog box that appears, choose the location where you want to save your file. Select Adobe PDF Print or Adobe PDF Interactive from the format dropdown menu. Choose based on your needs. Click Save.

4. Configure PDF Export Settings

In the Export Adobe PDF dialog box, select the desired PDF preset such as High Quality Print or PDF/X-4. Then, navigate to the General tab and check the option for Hyperlinks under the Include section. This ensures that the hyperlinks from your InDesign document are included in the PDF.

5. Adjust Additional Settings if Needed

You can also fine-tune other settings like compression, marks, bleeds, etc., as necessary for your project. Use the tabs in the Export Adobe PDF dialog box to make these adjustments.

6. Export the PDF

Once you've configured the settings, click Export to create your PDF. Your document will retain the hyperlinks from your InDesign file.

7. Verify Hyperlinks After Export

After exporting, open your PDF in Adobe Acrobat or another PDF viewer to test and ensure that the hyperlinks work as intended. This step is crucial to confirm that your document functions correctly when shared or used online.

Additional Tips for Sharing and File Management

Using the Package function under the File menu can be very convenient for sharing or consolidating a project. This function creates a folder that includes your InDesign file along with all the linked other files. This ensures everything needed for the project is in one place, making it easier to distribute and manage.

Summary

By following these detailed steps, you can successfully save your InDesign file as a PDF with hyperlinks, ensuring that the document is fully functional and easily shareable. Proper configuration and testing are key to a successful export, ensuring that your project meets your needs.