PDF stands for Portable Document Format.  Today it is the accepted method for submitting book layouts to book printers. PDF’s are also widely used for creating ebooks and articles.

While you can purchase software to create PDF’s, most needs can be covered by downloading free PDF software.  You can search the web for PDF software.  Here’s one good example of a free provider.  www.cutepdf.com

Installing CutePDF:

1. To download the free CutePDF document maker, open www.cutepdf.com.
2. On the first line of the web page, click on Create PDF documents – for Free
3. In the left-hand column, you will see both Free Download and Free Converter.  You will need to download both of these.
4. Click on Free Download
5. Choose Run.  If a Security Warning pops up, choose Run
6. When the Setup Wizard Appears, choose Next
7. Accept the License Agreement and choose Next
8. Choose Install
9. Now return to http://www.cutepdf.com/Products/CutePDF/Writer.asp and choose Free Converter
10. Click on Run. If a Security Warning pops up, choose  Run
11. Next choose Setup to install GPL Ghostscript

Using CutePDF
CutePDF works just like your regular printer.  For example if you’ve created a document in Word,  save the document and then choose Print.  When the Print dialogue box opens, open the Name dropdown box and select CutePDF.  You can select Properties for publishing your document.  When you’re ready choose OK and your PDF is created.  A dialogue box opens so that you can choose where to save your PDF.

Linking Your PDF on your website.
Once you’ve created your PDF, you can upload the PDF using your regular image upload procedure.  Once the document is uploaded you can link to the PDF from either a text link or from an image link.

PDF’s give a professional look to your material, adding to its value for your reader.  Make sure and put your name, your book’s name, and your website name in a tagline at the bottom of each document you create.  You never know where your document will be forwarded. Whoever reads your expert article should be able to easily find your website and your book.