How to Open PDF Files in an Email Attachment

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Because of the growing number of files being saved in the PDF format, being able to open PDF files in an email attachment is essential when working on your computer at home or in the work place. Fortunately, opening PDF files in email attachments is a simple procedure whether you are using a Mac or a PC. In fact, some Web browsers, such as Safari, have a built-in PDF reader that will automatically open the PDF files in your email attachments for you.

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On a Mac

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Step 1

Sign in to your email account.

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Step 2

Open the email that contains the PDF attachment you would like to open.

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Step 3

Click "Download" to download the PDF file attached to the email.

Step 4

Select the "Open With" bubble from the dialog box that appears. Then click the dropdown menu next to this bubble and select "Preview."

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Step 5

Click "OK" and the PDF file will be opened in Preview (a free PDF reader that comes pre-installed on all Mac computers). You have now successfully opened a PDF file in an email attachment.

On a PC

Step 1

Navigate to the Adobe Reader website if you do not have a PDF reader installed on your computer. Download and install Adobe Reader, which is a free PDF reader.

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Step 2

Sign in to your email account.

Step 3

Click "Download" to download the PDF file attached to the email.

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Step 4

Select the "Open With" bubble from the dialog box that appears. Then click the dropdown menu next to this bubble and select "Adobe Reader" (or another PDF reader you currently have installed on your computer).

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Step 5

Click "OK" and the PDF file will be opened in the PDF reader you chose. You have now successfully opened a PDF file in an email attachment.

Using Safari

Step 1

Sign in to your email account using the Safari Web browser.

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Step 2

Open the email that contains the PDF attachment you would like to open.

Step 3

Click "View" and the PDF will automatically be opened by Safari's built-in PDF reader.

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