How to Edit a Scanned Document

Have you finally scanned your document to your desktop but now it's not editable? Fortunately, with advanced tools like OCR on PDF Reader Pro, it becomes easy to create an editable file without the need for additional software.

Megon Venter

B2B SaaS Content Writer

Megon is a B2B SaaS Content Writer with 7 years of experience in content strategy and execution. Her expertise lies in the creation of document management tutorials and product comparisons.

How to Edit a Scanned Document

Easily turn your scanned PDF file into an editable document using the OCR feature. Let us show you how below:

Image Source: PDF Reader Pro

Step 1: Open the Scanned Document

Launch PDF Reader Pro on your device and open the scanned document you wish to edit. You can do this by navigating to the "File" menu and selecting "Open" or by simply dragging and dropping the file into the application window.

Step 2: Perform Optical Character Recognition (OCR)

If your scanned document contains text that you want to edit, you'll need to perform Optical Character Recognition (OCR) to convert the scanned image into editable text. PDF Reader Pro offers built-in OCR functionality, allowing you to recognize text with precision.

Step 3: Enable Editing Mode

Once OCR is complete, PDF Reader Pro will convert the scanned document into editable text. You can now enable editing mode by selecting the appropriate tool or navigating to the "Edit" menu. This mode allows you to modify the content of the document freely.

Step 4: Edit Text and Images

With editing mode enabled, you can now make changes to the text, images, and other elements within the document. PDF Reader Pro provides intuitive tools for modifying text, adjusting formatting, inserting or deleting images, and more.

Did you find our guide useful? You can begin editing your scanned documents right away by downloading PDF Reader Pro for Mac or Windows here:

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Best Practices for Using OCR

Optical Character Recognition (OCR) is a powerful technology that allows users to convert scanned images or PDF documents into editable and searchable text. When using OCR, it's essential to follow best practices to ensure accurate results and maximize efficiency. Here are some tips for effectively utilizing OCR, especially when working with PDF documents:

1. Choose the Right Software: Select a reliable OCR software that offers advanced features and accuracy. Adobe Acrobat, Google Docs, and PDF Reader Pro are some popular options known for their robust OCR capabilities.
   
   

2. Ensure Quality Scans: Before performing OCR, ensure that the scanned document is of high quality. Adjust the scanner settings to achieve optimal resolution and clarity, minimizing errors during the recognition process.
   
   

3. Check Language Support: Different OCR software supports various languages. Make sure that the software you're using supports the language present in your document to accurately recognize and convert text.
   
   

4. Edit and Proofread: Once the text has been converted, take advantage of the editing capabilities provided by OCR software to make necessary corrections or adjustments. Proofread the document thoroughly to ensure accuracy and coherence.
   
   

5. Save and Backup Originals: Always save a copy of the original scanned document before performing OCR. This preserves the integrity of the source material and provides a fallback option in case of any errors or discrepancies in the OCR output.

"PDF Reader Pro is an amazing tool for individuals and for business. It's annotation and editing help me with my daily tasks and allows for collaboration amongst my team and I."

Naaziyah Ismail

B2B SaaS Content Writer

Source: LinkedIn

FAQs: Editing Scanned PDF Documents

Do you have questions about turning your scanned document into an editable format? Our team has put together some helpful answers. 

Will editing a scanned PDF document affect its original quality?

Editing a scanned PDF document using OCR should not significantly impact its original quality if done correctly. However, it's essential to use high-quality OCR software and follow best practices to minimize errors and preserve the integrity of the document.

Is OCR accurate enough for editing sensitive documents?

OCR accuracy can vary depending on factors such as the quality of the original document, the complexity of the text, and the OCR software used. While OCR technology has improved significantly in recent years, it's essential to review the OCR results carefully, especially when working with sensitive documents.

Can I revert changes made to a scanned PDF document after editing?

Yes, most OCR software allows you to undo changes and revert the document to its original state if needed. Utilize the software's version history or undo/redo functions to track and manage changes made during the editing process.

Are there any limitations to editing scanned PDF documents with OCR?

While OCR technology is powerful, it may encounter limitations when dealing with handwritten text, complex formatting, or low-quality scans. Additionally, certain OCR software may have restrictions on the number of pages or file size that can be processed in a single operation.

Can I collaborate on edited scanned PDF documents with others?

Yes, many OCR software solutions offer collaboration features that allow multiple users to work on the same document simultaneously. You can share edited scanned PDF documents with colleagues or collaborators, enabling real-time collaboration and feedback.

Is there a risk of data loss when editing scanned PDF documents with OCR?

When editing scanned PDF documents with OCR, there is a minimal risk of data loss if proper precautions are taken. It's recommended to save backup copies of the original document and regularly save your progress to prevent any potential loss of data.

Editing scanned documents doesn't have to be a daunting task, thanks to tools like PDF Reader Pro. With its user-friendly interface and powerful features, you can edit scanned documents quickly and efficiently, saving time and effort in the process.