Guides · Practical guide · updated October 22, 2026
How to flatten a PDF
When you overwrite or cover text in a PDF, the original content can still exist underneath and be copied. Flattened PDF in Indy PDF Studio renders new pages without the hidden original text, so the recipient cannot see what was under your edits.
Try it free in the editorStep by step
- Open the PDF and make your changes, for example hide sensitive data with the Cover tool.
- Check that everything is in place.
- Choose Flattened PDF in the top bar.
- Download the result and open it in another PDF viewer.
- Try selecting and copying text in places that should stay hidden.
Why covering alone is not enough
A black box or new text placed over original content in a standard PDF only hides what is underneath. In another program the hidden text can be selected, copied or the cover removed. Flattening renders pages again, so the original text under edits is gone.
What you lose by flattening
Flattened pages behave more like images: text may not be selectable or searchable and form fields stop being fillable. Keep the original or the OPDF project for further editing.
The OPDF project is not a safe copy
An OPDF project keeps your work including the original documents. It is meant for you, not for sharing. Send recipients the flattened PDF.
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