It all starts with the question, ‘What is a PDF?’ and after that, it’s all easy down-stairs climbing from there. You work with it and learn about the many features of the PDF format-- what it can do, how it does it and why you need it.

But, what about your recreational needs? Are there recreational needs for the PDF?. . . For most, the PDF is only a working document. More often than not, we tend to work with PDF documents and leave it at that. Sad to say, but once that stressful 9 to 5, 8 to 4 working day is done, we want to hear no more about it. Sad indeed for such an innovative format


So, this week’s posting aims to bust that “PDFs-are-only-for-work� myth. Here are some suggested odd ends for other, and more creative, uses of the PDF:

• E-Books—Instead of buying them, download them. Or snag a scanned copy from a willing friend.

• Invitations—Websites specializing in generating e-vites can sometimes be a hassle to access, navigate and print. The PDF can eliminate those problems by just opening a PDF attachment.

• Puzzles and games— The PDF is perfect for this. (Although I’m not addicted to it, I’ve come across Sudoku in PDF booklets!)

• For embedding media—With the multi-media trend getting bigger, you can share in all the hype and exchange those rare media files you find on the Web.

• As a fax machine—Handy for those without one at home—cheaper too.

• For receiving bills—As hard (and unpleasant) as it is to receive bills via mail, receiving them in the PDF will at least minimize the amount of filing and shredding you need to do.

• For capturing web pages—Perfect for sharing those weird, off-the-wall webpages with those who don’t have access to the Internet.

• Manuals—If you’ve just bought something shiny and new, picking up a hobby or downloaded a new software application, you can figure everything out with the PDF’d manual.

• For keeping tabs on sports—Record, email and print out results and standings to distribute at an event’s end. (Did you win your World Cup pool?)


Using PDFs outside the work place doesn’t mean taking your work home with you. It actually means incorporating a way to make things a bit easier for you during your downtime. Try it sometime.