PDF file size stays the same after deleting several pages

PDF
1

Hi,

I had a 40 pages PDF file and I deleted 39 pages out of it and saved it only with the one page but the PDF file size is still the time. I was expecting it to reduce significantly. How to reduce file after deleting pages in it?

Thanks,
Shoaib

2

Hi @shoaib

When you saved the PDF after, I would suspect that you used File → Save, or used the save button in the toolbar.

Did you try File → Save as and specifying overwrite?
That may force the file system to reallocate the space assigned to the document.

3

Hello @shoaib,
Which product are you using? What is the version, and how are you saving the PDF file?

4

I am using ONLYOFFICE Desktop Editors 9.0.3 in Ubuntu 25.04 via Snaps.

It does not make any difference and file size remains the same even if I use SAVE, SAVE AS (different file name) or SAVE AS (overwrite the existing file).

5

I have tried save as as well however it does not make any difference and file size remains the same even if I use SAVE, SAVE AS (different file name) or SAVE AS (overwrite the existing file).

6

Ah! That makes more sense now.
In your first post, you did not mention what platform you are using.
My solution was attached to a solution for Windows from many years ago…

7

@shoaib Could you provide a file with which the above-mentioned issue is reproduced? (you can replace the confidential content if any)

8

https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fo/ezraufmdc2v3nbfyjzh8j/APZVnZOVrqarGoicMArHjNk?rlkey=cf1750sojt9ytsf7ns8aw45vf&st=vojgg2rz&dl=0

Hi,

I have reproduced this issue on a public pdf file. I was unable to attach as I am a new user, so I have uploaded the files in a dropbox folder and provided the link above.

Thanks

9

Please record your screen to show how you actually remove the contents and save the file (we need to see all steps from start to finish), so we can ensure we’re following your steps correctly.
Also, you should now be able to upload files here.

10

Hi, I have attached a screencast video. Let me knoow if you need anything else

12

Hello,
Sorry for the delayed response,
Conclusion - It is a known behavior as when the pages are deleted, we do not actually overwrite the PDF, the streams of the pages are not removed. A page may reference resources from other parts of the file.

But we may consider adding an option to save pdf files with actual content overwriting, we have added your request to our tracking system.