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How to Copy Text from a PDF (Easiest Way in 2024)

In this article, we will show you how to copy and paste from a PDF in just a few clicks. Simply follow the steps below.

How to Copy and Paste from a PDF

To copy text from a PDF, we will be using Lido, a spreadsheet built to simplify and automate repetitive spreadsheet tasks. You can create an account for free here: https://www.lido.app/go/signup.

Step 1: Create a new Lido spreadsheet

After logging into your Lido account, navigate to the Lido Files page and click on "New File" to create a new spreadsheet. This will serve as your workspace for copying data from the PDF document.

copy text from pdf

Step 2: Open the PDF Importer tool from the File menu

Go to the File menu located at the top of the Lido interface and select "Import from PDF" to launch the PDF Importer tool. This tool is specifically designed to facilitate the copying of data from PDF files into a structured spreadsheet format.

how to copy text from pdf

Step 3: Upload the PDF document you want to copy text from.

Simply drag a PDF into the box or click to upload and choose the file from where it is saved on your computer.

how to copy text from a pdf

Step 4: Adjust the selection to the area of the text you want to copy and extract

Once the PDF is uploaded, use the tool to highlight the text area you wish to copy. You can refine your selection by adjusting the corners of the selection box. Once satisfied, click "Extract data" to extract the text from the document.

how to copy from pdf

Step 5: Review the extracted text

Check the preview of the extracted text to ensure it's the correct segment and formatted accurately. If all looks good, click "Insert at active cell" to place the text into the spreadsheet, where each line of text is put into its own cell.

If you need to copy more text or adjust your selection, click "Back" to return to the selection screen.

copy from pdf

Step 6: Select the column of text in the spreadsheet and copy

The text should now be in your spreadsheet. Highlight the text, right-click, and select "Copy" from the dropdown menu or use the keyboard shortcut: Command-C on Mac or Ctrl+C on Windows.

how to copy from a pdf

Step 7: Paste the text

Navigate to where you wish to paste the copied text, such as a blank Google Doc. Simply right-click and select "Paste" or use the keyboard shortcut for pasting text: Command-V on a Mac and Ctrl+V on Windows.

copy and paste from pdf

We hope you now have a better understanding of how to copy and paste from a PDF. If you enjoyed this article, you might also like our articles on the best PDF to Excel converter and how to extract text from a PDF.

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