SO, what’s the deal with PDF printables?  By the end of this post, you will understand how to upload a PDF printable to WordPress.  PLUS how a printable can be used to super charge your online content.  I have recently created my own to use within this post for demonstration purposes … Although please feel free to download it 😉  Anyway back to the task at hand!

Let’s go!

What is a PDF Printable?

A printable is a PDF resource that your readers can download, and you guessed it … print! 

Why Bother with a PDF Printable?

A printable can help to cultivate a great relationship between you and your readers.  In a vast sea of online content you can make your website memorable!  Think of this process as gifting your readers with something of value.  A printable resource won’t cost a great deal to produce; other than your time / awesome creative brain power.

How to Produce a PDF Printable

The first place to start is by thinking of an idea.  I love getting a mind map on the go for ideas generation.  I start by undertaking a complete “brain dump.”   To me this means getting  EVERY idea onto paper without judgement.  I find that I miss out on some real gems by kicking my critical thinking in too early.

Once you have had your extremely satisfying and cleansing brain dump (💩lulz) then it’s time to narrow down your ideas!

Your printable should be useful!  Start by thinking about what you would find helpful as a content creator.  Then try to think about the printable from the perspective of your audience.  What do you think they need?  Heck ask them directly if you are unsure!  If you have up to four ideas…get a Twitter poll on the go!  This is fantastic market research.

If you have never conducted a Twitter poll, go to compose a new Tweet and then select the icon with the lovely pink circle around it.  (See below)

Then you can input your question and answers.  Some people may suggest the below poll has been rigged … Don’t listen to them!!

Once you have your idea you need to get practical.  I used good old Canva to produce the majority of my printable.

I then took it into Adobe Pro DC so that I could convert it into an editable PDF.  My printable is an editable to do list with a twist baby!!  Here is a quick preview for reference:

I wanted my readers to have full control over how they use this PDF resource.  By making the check boxes / text boxes editable I have opened up the playing field.  For example, personally I always keep an ongoing to do list online!  Plus it is an environmentally friendly option. 

*Shines Halo*  

I create A LOT of editable resources at work, so I had some preexisting knowledge.  But honestly if I can do it, you can too!  If you have any questions about Adobe Pro DC please let me know in the comments!

How to Upload a PDF Printable to WordPress

As stated in the intro I will now provide an easy to follow PDF upload guide.  This means that your readers will be able to download your Printable directly from your blog!

Step 1. Head to your WordPress dashboard and click the Media tab

Step 2. Drag and drop / Select Files within the upload box

Step 3.  Once your PDF has uploaded click on the file

Step 4.  Once you have clicked on the file, you will be able to access the URL as indicated below.  Highlight and copy that bad boy!

Step 5.  Now you have two options:

1. Link to your PDF via a graphic
2. Link to your PDF within a line of text

VOILA!  

See below examples for reference.

1. Download your FREE To Do List (with a twist) HERE.
2. Click the image below to download your FREE To Do List (with a twist) 

I would recommend creating a graphic to link your PDF printable resource to.  This ticks a few boxes.  It will break up your text AND you can use it to share via Pinterest as a visual.  Everyone loves free resources on Pinterest am I right?

As always I hope this content was useful!  Let me know if you have questions, or if I have missed anything in the comments below.  I appreciate you stopping by folks!

If you enjoyed this read you may enjoy my previous post!  You can access it by clicking the image below yo!

P.s. If you appreciate the content I share here, why not buy me a coffee? 🙂

Let’s connect on them there socials!