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How to Create a Download Link for a PDF in WordPress?

Published in WordPress PDF Link 3 mins read

To create a download link for a PDF in WordPress, you typically upload the PDF to your Media Library and then link to its URL from your content, often using a button or text link.

Here's a simple way to add a PDF download link using the WordPress block editor, incorporating the steps from the reference:

Steps to Create a PDF Download Button

Creating a visible button for your PDF download can make it stand out and improve user experience.

  1. Upload Your PDF: First, you need to upload the PDF file to your WordPress site's Media Library.

    • Navigate to Media > Add New in your WordPress dashboard.
    • Drag and drop your PDF file or click "Select Files" to upload it.
    • Once uploaded, click on the PDF file in the Media Library. This will open the Attachment Details window.
    • Copy the File URL. Keep this URL handy as you'll need it for the link.

  2. Go to Your Post or Page: Next, navigate to the specific page or post where you want to add the PDF download link.

  3. Add a Button Block:

    • On the page editor, add a new block by clicking the '+' icon.
    • Search for Button and select the Button block.
    • Adjust the button text (e.g., "Download Brochure", "Get the PDF Guide") and position as needed within your layout.

  4. Link the Button to Your PDF:

    • With the Button block selected, click the Link button icon on the block's toolbar (it looks like a chain link).
    • Paste the File URL of your PDF that you copied in Step 1 into the URL field.
    • Press Enter or click the "Apply" arrow.
    • (Optional) Click the "Link settings" gear icon to choose if the link should open in a new tab (recommended for external files).

  5. Publish or Update: Save your changes by publishing or updating the post/page.

Now you have a clickable button that, when clicked, will either open the PDF in the user's browser or prompt them to download it, depending on their browser settings.

Using a Text Link

If you prefer a simple text link instead of a button:

  1. Follow Step 1 above to upload your PDF and get its URL.
  2. In your post or page editor, type the text you want to link (e.g., "Download our full report").
  3. Select the text.
  4. Click the Link button icon in the paragraph or heading toolbar.
  5. Paste the PDF's URL and press Enter.
  6. Update your post or page.

Tips for PDF Downloads

  • Clear Call to Action: Make sure the link text or button clearly indicates that clicking will lead to a PDF download.
  • File Size: Be mindful of the PDF file size. Large files can slow down downloads for users on slower connections.
  • Open in New Tab: Linking PDFs to open in a new tab (target="_blank") is often a good practice so users don't leave your page entirely when they click the link.

By following these steps, you can effectively add PDF download links to your WordPress content.

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