How to Split PDF Files & Recommended Tools

1. Why Split PDF Files?

Common scenarios: Extract contract clauses, divide research papers, archive scanned documents, etc.

2. 3 Practical Methods

  1. Built-in OS Features

    • Windows: Open in Edge → Print → Set page range → Save as new PDF.

    • Mac: Preview → Thumbnail sidebar → Drag pages to desktop.

  2. Adobe Acrobat (Premium)
    Path: Tools → Organize Pages → Split Document (subscription required).

  3. Free Online Tools (Recommended)
    No installation needed with flexible splitting modes:

    • By page ranges: e.g., "1-5, 8, 11-13"

    • By file count: Split into N equal parts

    • By bookmarks: Auto-detection of sections

    ✅ Tool Recommendation: PDFSail
    Batch processing, 256-bit SSL encryption (files auto-deleted in 30 mins), mobile-friendly.

3. Step-by-Step Guide with Online Tool

  1. Go to https://www.pdfsail.com/split-pdf

  2. Upload PDF → Choose split mode

  3. Configure settings → Click "Split PDF"

  4. Download results in ZIP format

4. Key Selection Criteria

  • Security: Opt for tools without registration & auto-purge servers

  • Output Quality: Preserve original resolution/text formatting

  • Speed: Handle 100+ pages under 20 seconds

Pro Tip: For confidential files, use offline software. For daily tasks, PDFSail offers zero-installation efficiency.