How to Split a PDF or Extract Specific Pages
Not every PDF needs to be shared whole. Maybe you only want pages 3 to 5 of a long report, or you need to pull a single signed page out of a contract. Splitting a PDF lets you extract exactly the pages you need into a new file โ and you can do it for free in your browser, without uploading the original anywhere.
Splitting vs. organizing
There are two related jobs. Splitting (or extracting) pulls a set of pages out into a brand-new PDF, leaving your original untouched. Organizing reorders and deletes pages within a document. If your goal is 'I just want these specific pages as their own file', splitting is what you want.
Extract pages (step by step)
- Open the free Split PDF tool in your browser.
- Drag in the PDF you want to pull pages from.
- Enter the pages or ranges to keep โ for example 1-3, 5, 8-10.
- Click Split and download the new PDF containing only those pages.
Range syntax, explained
Ranges use commas and dashes. '1-3' means pages one through three; a single number like '5' grabs just that page; and you can combine them: '1-3, 5, 8-10'. Pages are exported in the order you list them, so you can reorder while you extract.
Want a single page? Just enter its number on its own โ for example '4' โ to export a one-page PDF.
Private by design
Splitting happens entirely in your browser using your device's own processing, so a confidential contract or report never gets uploaded. When you're done, the original file is unchanged โ you've simply created a new, smaller PDF alongside it.
Tools used in this guide
Frequently asked questions
What range format should I use?โ
Use commas and dashes, like 1-3, 5, 8-10. Pages are exported in the order you list them.
Can I extract just one page?โ
Yes โ enter that page number on its own (for example, 4) to export a one-page PDF.
Does splitting change my original file?โ
No. A new PDF is created with the pages you chose; your original document is left untouched.