How do I compare two versions of a PDF document in Acrobat?

First, open Acrobat and go to 'All tools'. Then, select 'Compare files'. Choose your old and new PDF files. Click 'Compare'. Acrobat will show you a summary of changes and let you navigate through them.

What is the difference between 'Autodetect' and 'Compare text only' when comparing PDF files?

Option What it does. Autodetect Acrobat tries to figure out the best way to compare your files, good for most document types. Compare text only Acrobat only looks for changes in words and letters. It ignores any pictures or graphics in the documents.

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Conflicting Plan Drafts

I have two versions of a vocational plan from different staff and the [client] expects us to agree on goals in tomorro…

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CDecide — “help me choose”I have two versions of a vocational plan from different staff and the [client] expects us to…+

I have two versions of a vocational plan from different staff and the [client] expects us to agree on goals in tomorrow's session. The drafts differ on realistic timelines and supports. I can't tell if this is a documentation versioning issue or a real clinical difference about capacity. Tell me the fastest way to diagnose the gap, which draft element to prioritize in the meeting, and a one-line framing to present to the [client] so we look organized despite the discrepancy.

when the reply comes backPush once: ask it to sharpen the weakest part, and to say what it assumed.

How to do it

the tool · the steps · what to avoid

1
Open Adobe Acrobat on your computer.
2
Go to Tools and select Compare Files.
3
Click Select File under 'Compare' and choose your first PDF (the older or original version).
4
Click Select File under 'With' and choose your second PDF (the newer or revised version).
5
Click Compare to start the comparison.
6
Review the results in the comparison summary and use the side-by-side view to examine highlighted differences.
Best practiceFor best results, avoid using scanned PDFs as input files, as text recognition may be inconsistent.

In the appWith the API

You can filter the comparison results to focus on text, images, or formatting changes for a clearer review.

This runs in the Acrobat app - there is no separate API for this task.

Glossary

words on this page

PDFA common file type used to share documents that look the same everywhere.ExampleShe saved the brochure as a PDF so everyone would see the exact same layout and fonts.

Security SettingsRules that protect a PDF file, like preventing changes or copying.ExampleThe security settings on the PDF prevented anyone from printing or copying its contents.

AutodetectA setting that lets Acrobat choose the best way to compare your files.ExampleWith autodetect enabled, the software automatically chose the best settings for comparing the two document versions.

The real tasks

the one, listed here

Two vocational plan drafts disagree right before client meeting

FAQ

about this task

First, open Acrobat and go to 'All tools'.
Then, select 'Compare files'.
Choose your old and new PDF files.
Click 'Compare'. Acrobat will show you a summary of changes and let you navigate through them.

Comparing two PDF files helps you quickly see what has changed between them. This is useful for finding edits, additions, or deletions in documents like contracts, reports, or presentations, saving you time from reading every word again.

No, if your PDF files have security settings, the Compare Files tool will not work. Acrobat will give you a message about security preventing the comparison. You must remove the security protection from both PDF files first before you can compare them successfully.

Option	What it does
Autodetect	Acrobat tries to figure out the best way to compare your files, good for most document types.
Compare text only	Acrobat only looks for changes in words and letters. It ignores any pictures or graphics in the documents.

It is important to compare document versions to ensure accuracy and track all changes. This helps prevent mistakes, ensures everyone sees the latest information, and confirms that all agreed-upon edits have been made, especially in critical documents like legal papers or financial reports.

Conflicting Plan Drafts

When to use it

AI prompts

How to do it

Glossary

The real tasks

Who does this

FAQ

Sources

Adobe help

When it fails