How to Scan Documents to PDF at Home

Learn the precise steps to scan physical documents into high-quality PDF files using your printer, mobile device, or Mac.

1. Prepare your scanning device. Place your document face down on the scanner glass or face up in the automatic document feeder. Ensure the edges are aligned with the marked guide arrows on the scanner bed. Close the lid completely to prevent light interference.
2. Initiate the scan from macOS. Open System Settings and navigate to Printers & Scanners. Select your scanner from the device list, then click Open Scanner. Set the Kind to 'Document' and ensure the Format is set to PDF.
3. Configure output settings. Choose your resolution in the Resolution menu; 300 dpi is the standard for text-based documents. Select the destination folder in the Scan To dropdown menu. Click Scan to initiate the digitizing process.
4. Scan via iPhone Notes. Open the Notes app and create a new note or open an existing one. Tap the Camera icon, then select Scan Documents. Position your document in the viewfinder; the device will automatically detect and capture the page.
5. Save and share the PDF. Once the scan is captured on your iPhone, tap Keep Scan, then tap Save. Tap the document thumbnail, tap the Share icon, and select Save to Files to finalize the PDF export. The file is now ready for cloud storage or email.