PDF tools for writers and publishers
Merge manuscript chapters, compress for query letters, watermark sample chapters, convert PDFs to Word for editing. Built for writers.
Writers, editors, and small publishers handle a steady stream of PDFs: manuscripts in chapter files, galley proofs, sample chapters for sharing, publishing contracts, advance reader copies, sales reports. Most of the workflow happens in Word for editing and PDF for distribution. PDFOnly fills the gaps between the two.
Daily writer workflow: merge manuscript chapters into a final manuscript before submission; compress sample chapters for emailable query letters; watermark sample chapters as 'EXCERPT — NOT FOR DISTRIBUTION' to discourage forwarding; convert PDFs back to Word for line-editing or layout changes; password-protect proof copies before sending to beta readers. Free for the basics — keep your tool budget for editorial software, not utilities.
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Frequently asked questions
Can I send my manuscript to an agent as a single PDF?
Yes — merge your chapter files into one document, then convert to PDF if needed (or compress if it's too large). Most agents prefer one consolidated file over many separate chapter PDFs. Standard manuscript PDFs are typically 1-3 MB compressed.
How do I share a sample chapter without risking unauthorized distribution?
Watermark with 'SAMPLE — © Your Name' diagonally across each page at ~25% opacity. Visible enough to discourage redistribution, subtle enough not to interfere with reading. For higher-value content (full chapters, ARCs), add password protection.
Can I get the editable Word back from a galley proof PDF?
Yes — PDF to Word converts galley proofs back to editable .docx with the layout preserved. Useful when the typesetter sent only the PDF and you need to mark corrections directly in the source. For complex typeset layouts, expect minor cleanup.