There are so many different methods for making PDFs, and so many differences between software applications, that it's not possible to have one standard set of instructions for creating a PDF. For the basics of how to create a PDF and the options you may have available, consult the help files or online support for the particular software you use. The information below is simply a general set of tips for settings that you may come across.

Distiller

If you use Adobe Acrobat Distiller, click here for specific recommended settings.

Other Programs

Most programs with the capability to save as PDF or print to PDF will allow you to alter at least some of the settings. (Depending on the program, this may be called "Settings", "Options", "Custom", or something similar. Look for a button or menu like this within the Save As dialog or Print dialog, or consult your program's help files.)

Below are a few tips for settings you may come across.

• Preset settings: Many programs offer PDF preset settings - if this is the case, the "Press Quality" preset is usually a safe bet for saving ads for print. Avoid using the "Standard" preset, as this can lower the resolution of any images in your layout!
• Images: There may be an "Images" tab (some programs call it "Compression") that will allow you to tweak the image settings. We recommend turning off downsampling (this may be called "Do Not Downsample," "Sampling: Off," "Keep Resolution," etc.). If you see options for "Compression" and "Image Quality," set these to "Automatic" and "Maximum" or "High".
• Fonts: Fonts must always be embedded. If you see a check box labeled "Embed All Fonts" or similar, make sure it is checked.
• Color: If you see options for color management, it's best to leave the colors as they are ("Leave Color Unchanged," "No Color Conversion," "As Is," etc).
• Security: Please do NOT include any password protection. We cannot accept "Secured" or password-protected PDFs.