How do I open a pdf file and search for text within that file?

Question

I just bought a new laptop with windows 11 installed. When I double-click on a pdf file, it opens in Microsoft Edge. When I do a cl+f, it can't find the text in the file.

I can't find the Adobe Acrobat Reader in the Apple Store. I am unable to find a good free app in the store for reading PDF files. I get messages to exit S Mode, but once it is out I can't go back.

I don't want to create pdf files, I just want to read them and be able to search for text in the file.

I don't care if it is opened in Edge or a reader. I could do it in Windows 10, but not Windows 11. What happened??!!

Answer 1

On the Edge address bar, type edge://flags and press enter.

On the search bar type new pdf viewer and enable the "New PDF Viewer" option. Restart Edge to apply the changes.

Answer 2

Hi,

I'm Rodrigo and I'll help you.

You did the procedure to search in a PDF file on Edge correctly, and it should work, but if the PDF file has the text in an image it will not work.

To confirm it, check if you can select the text in the PDF file, the cursor should change when hovering a text.

Answer 3

I opened the same pdf file in windows 10 with no problems.

Answer 4

Run the Edge repair, Open Settings > Apps > Installed Apps > Search for Edge > Select the three dots next to it > Modify> Repair.

Answer 5

I did as you suggested, but it did not resolve the problem. When I open the pdf file, I do ctl+f to search for the word "medicare". It found 7 occurrences. It does not highlight the word or move to the next occurrence.

I installed PDF X from the microsoft store. I can search for the text, but it is so slow.

I am not looking to create or modify the files. I just want to be able to find what I am looking for in the pdf file rather than having to look at each page to find the word.