Preserve the source page
The scan remains the page a reader sees.
Make a scanned PDF searchable with an OCR text layer
A searchable PDF keeps the visible scan and adds an invisible text layer for search, selection, and copying. The generated layer follows local OCR word positions, so verify reading order and critical fields before archiving or sharing the file.
Your searchable PDF is ready to verify
N/Alocal review signal
0 pages0 words0 characters0 ms
Search, select, and copy from the generated PDF, then compare important text and reading order with the visible page.
Keep the page image and add a text layer
The page remains visually unchanged while recognized words are positioned behind it. Search and copy become possible without pretending that OCR recreates document semantics.
- Search for a phrase that appears near the top and bottom of the page.
- Copy a paragraph and inspect its reading order.
- Compare names, totals, dates, and identifiers with the visible scan.
How the searchable PDF keeps the original page visible
Use this tool when the original page appearance must remain visible but the document also needs selectable text. The PDF does not redraw the document. It places invisible words behind the scan using the positions found during local OCR.
Position recognized words
Word boxes are mapped to PDF coordinates as an invisible layer.
Test the result
Search, select, and copy before relying on the document.
Check search and copy behavior before archiving
A PDF can look correct while its hidden reading order is wrong. Test representative headings, paragraphs, columns, and tables.
Use an upright source
Rotation and perspective make it harder to align the invisible word layer with the visible characters.
Test copy order
Select a paragraph across columns or sidebars and confirm that copied words follow a useful sequence.
Keep the original
Retain an untouched source file when the document has legal, historical, or evidentiary value.
Check sensitive fields
A searchable layer can expose hidden copyable text, so review private information before distribution.
Test several positions
Search a heading, a body sentence, and text near the final page so verification covers several layouts and page locations.
Choose a searchable PDF when page appearance matters
Compare the retained outputs in Should You Keep a Searchable PDF or Plain Text?.
For output and accessibility decisions, continue with the searchable document workflow guides.
Best for
Scanned letters, reports, records, and document images that must retain their appearance.
Not designed for
Creating a tagged PDF, repairing document semantics, or certifying PDF/A or PDF/UA compliance.
Review first
Columns, tables, page rotation, copy order, and private text that becomes searchable.
Searchable PDF questions
Is a searchable PDF automatically accessible?
No. Searchable text helps, but accessible PDFs also require logical reading order, document language, headings, table structure, and meaningful alternatives. Review the accessibility workflow.
Will the page look different?
The visible scan is retained. The added text layer is intended for selection and search, not visual replacement. Compare searchable PDF and text output.