This FAQ will show the steps on how to convert a PDF downloaded from InDesign into a searchable Text PDF using Adobe Acrobat.
Why do I need to convert my InDesign PDF?
Student submissions for Turnitin require specific file types and some are incompatible such as those created with InDesign and saved as PDF file type. Turnitin is unable to search the document text and will require you to convert it to a searchable text PDF.
How to Use Adobe Acrobat to Convert PDFs to Searchable Text
- Open your PDF in Adobe Acrobat.
- Select Convert and under Other Options, click Scan & OCR (see Image 1 below)
- Under Recognize Text > In this file, alter the options as necessary and select Recognize text button (see image 2 below)
- Wait for Acrobat to scan and convert all the pages.
- When it’s finished, either use CTRL + S to save your PDF or Click Menu in the top-left and then Save as (we recommend you give it a new file name).
- Retry uploading to Turnitin
Any issues or support required, please contact the Library and Student IT Advice team.
Image 1 - Convert, Other Options: Scan & OCR
Image 2 - Recognize Text > In this file
