Translate a PDF document

In this guide: Follow these steps to translate a PDF document using Redokun.

Translating a PDF file can be a difficult and potentially risky task. We’ve covered this topic extensively in our blog.

How to translate a PDF in Redokun

However, if you cannot obtain the source file, this guide covers two alternative methods:

Method 1 – suggested on Adobe's website: Using Adobe Acrobat to convert the PDF into an editable format like DOCX or PPTX, and then translate your file in Redokun.

Method 2: Using Redokun with TransPDF.

Method 1: Using Adobe Acrobat for Conversion

As explained also on the Adobe official website, Adobe Acrobat offers a solution by allowing you to convert your PDF into an editable format such as a Word document or PowerPoint presentation, which can then be translated more easily.

1.A) Convert Your PDF with Adobe Acrobat

1. Open your PDF in Adobe Acrobat.
2. Go to the Tools menu and select Export PDF.
3. Choose your export format (Word or PowerPoint) and click Export.
4. Name your file and save it.

1.B) Translate the Converted Document

After conversion, translate the DOCX or PPTX file in Redokun.

Method 2: Using Redokun and TransPDF

The process to obtain your translated PDF will be as follows:

1. Create a TransPDF account.
2. Upload your PDF file to TransPDF.
3. Download an XLIFF file from TransPDF.
4. Translate the XLIFF file in Redokun.
5. Upload the translated XLIFF file to TransPDF.
6. Download the translated PDF file.

2.A) Create a TransPDF account

1. Create a free account for TransPDF. When signing up, select Redokun under Translation Tool .

2.B) Upload your PDF file to TransPDF

2. While logged into your TransPDF account, upload a PDF by clicking on Upload PDF .
3. Select the PDF you want to upload, set the Original Language and Target Languages , then click on Add Document .

2.C) Download an XLIFF file from TransPDF

4. Once TransPDF has processed your PDF file, click on the Get Text button and select XLIFF .

2.D) Translate the XLIFF file in Redokun

5. Translate the XLIFF file in Redokun.

2.E) Upload the translated XLIFF file to TransPDF

6. Once you’ve downloaded the translated XLIFF file from Redokun, remember to change the file extension from .xliff to .xlf.
7. From your TransPDF account, upload the translated XLIFF file by clicking on Upload Translations .

2.F) Download the translated PDF.

8. After processing your XLIFF file, TransPDF will show the translation status of your document in your account.
9. Make sure TransPDF is not indicating any issue with your Fonts (Go here to learn how to fix Font issues).
10. Lastly, click on the Download button next to your document. You will have the option to download a Preview PDF , a Comparison PDF or a Final PDF .