How do I change a color pdf to black and white?

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1

I need to turn a color PDF into black and white before printing a 30-page handout. Can I change the file itself rather than just the printer settings?

2

I had to do this for a handout once, and changing the printer setting only affected that print job. To change the file itself, open the PDF in an editor that has a grayscale or black-and-white conversion option, then save a new copy and check a few pages before printing.

3

If you just want it to print in black and white, your printer settings should have a “grayscale” or “black and white” option, that’s usually easiest for 30 pages. What printer and program are you using to open the PDF?

4
  1. Open the PDF in your web browser.
  2. Press Ctrl+P and set the destination to “Save as PDF”.
  3. Change the color setting to Black and white, then save it.

This creates a new black-and-white copy of the file directly on your computer without needing extra software.

5

If your handout started life as slides, the quickest route is PowerPoint itself. Open the deck, go File > Export > Create PDF/XPS, then click Options and change the publish setting from Colour to Black and White, saving it under a new name. Keep your original colour copy safe in case you need it later. Worth checking the page count and any coloured charts before you print.