Split PDF into Multiple Files
Break a large PDF into smaller files by chapter or page range. Free and local — nothing leaves your browser.
Splitting vs extracting
Two wordings, one tool. "Splitting" usually means dividing a whole document into sequential parts — chapters 1–3, 4–6, 7–9. "Extracting" usually means pulling selected pages out of a larger file. The tool above handles both: you describe each output as a comma-separated page range, and each group becomes its own PDF. If you only need a few pages rather than the whole document in parts, see extract pages from PDF.
Planning your split
Look at the document first and mark the natural boundaries — chapter starts, section breaks, topic changes. Then translate them into ranges: a 90-page manual with three 30-page chapters becomes "1-30, 31-60, 61-90". Page numbers are one-based, exactly as shown in your PDF reader, and ranges must ascend. The tool reads the real page count from your file, so a range past the end is caught before anything is produced. For uneven chapters, just list each span: "1-12, 13-40, 41-55" works as well as neat round numbers.
What you get
Each part downloads as its own PDF, named after the source file plus its range (for example, manual-p1-30.pdf), so a folder of parts stays organized and sorts correctly. Content is copied page by page with pdf-lib — text and vector graphics are identical to the original, just in smaller files. Smaller parts are easier to email, upload to forms with per-file limits, and share with people who only need their section. Recombining is just as easy later with any PDF merge tool, including the merge function built into this site's PDF toolkit.
Private by design
Splitting is often about confidentiality as much as size: give each person only their part. Everything happens in your browser tab — the PDF is never uploaded, and nothing remains when you close the tab. Encrypted or password-protected PDFs are rejected.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between splitting and extracting?
Splitting divides a whole document into sequential parts; extracting pulls out selected pages. The same tool does both — it is just a question of which ranges you type.
How should I plan the split points?
Split at natural boundaries: chapters, sections, or wherever the content changes topic. Page numbers are one-based, matching your PDF reader.
Can the parts overlap?
Yes. Groups are independent, so "1-10, 10-20" gives two files that both contain page 10 — useful when a boundary page belongs in both parts.
What are the output filenames?
Each file is named after the source plus its range, e.g. report-p1-10.pdf, so the parts stay organized and sortable.
Are encrypted PDFs supported?
No. Encrypted or password-protected PDFs are rejected. Export an unlocked copy first.
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