Turn an InDesign Layout into a PDF Proof

An INDD document can refer to linked photographs, graphics, and fonts stored separately. Missing resources may appear as low-resolution previews, substituted type, or incomplete artwork in the proof. Check the document's link and preflight status before export.

For a handoff that must remain editable, the PDF is not the whole package. Preserve the INDD file with the assets and permissions needed for later work, or provide an approved packaged project through a secure method.

Inspect the complete document rather than relying on a cover preview. Check page order, facing-page treatment, running headers, folios, and the relationship between artwork and trim. A spread export is not interchangeable with a file containing one page per sheet.

Look at full bleed images and objects near the edge. If the design requires bleed, verify that the PDF includes the intended area beyond trim. Marks and bleed should be present only when the print workflow expects them.