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Converting your PDF content into Turtl Docs

How to import your PDF into Turtl and use AI to design layouts with the imported content from the PDF

Updated over 3 weeks ago

In Turtl, you can convert your static content into an interactive Turtl Doc.

Your content must be in PDF format to convert. But no worries - it's easy to convert other file types, like Google Docs, into a PDF before uploading. Check out our support article for tips on creating ideal PDFs for import and step-by-step instructions for exporting PDFs from various tools.

In addition to this article on converting PDFs to Turtl, you might also find these helpful:


Convert your PDF into a Turtl Doc

Note: PDFs vary greatly, from posters to long documents. We strive for accurate content detection, but perfect conversion isn't guaranteed. For best results, consult our FAQs.

To convert your PDF into an interactive Turtl Doc, begin by creating a new Turtl Doc.

Name the Doc, select a Brand (if you have more than one), and language, then click "Create".

Choose your option for importing the PDF. You can select from either:

  • Import raw PDF content - this imports your content from the PDF and lets you create layouts manually.

  • Enhance PDF with layouts - AI will design layouts with the imported content from the PDF. You’ll also have the option to add additional AI-generated images or use images from your image library.

Note: The "Import Content" option uses the legacy Column Grid to layout your content and is not available to all users.

If you select "Start from scratch" you can also import a PDF later by clicking on the three dots menu in the Editor and selecting "Import PDF".

Upload your PDF by dragging and dropping it into the upload area or select it using the file picker.

If you choose the AI option, you’ll also be asked what you would like to do with images.

Image options:

  • Use existing images only
    This is a great option if your PDF already includes high-quality images.

  • Add placeholders
    Uses placeholder images from your AI layouts template.

  • Add best match images from your library
    Turtl AI picks the best-matching images from your image library.

  • Add new generated images with AI
    Here you'll be able to select your AI model to generate new media on demand. Before you can use this option, you first need to train at least one model using images from your media library.

When you’re ready, click "Generate". This may take a few minutes, depending on the size of the PDF. If you decide to stop the conversion, you can do so by clicking "Stop process". If you’re having any trouble converting a PDF, take a look at our FAQs or reach out to the support team at support@turt.co

In the next step, you'll review your table of contents. We’ll automatically detect chapters and sub-chapters, but you can adjust the hierarchy further to better align with your vision.

Turtl will proceed to generate your content. If you selected "Enhance PDF" we'll also use AI to understand your content and generate quotes & polls to make the content more engaging.

Once your Doc is converted, flip through the content to make any tweaks before publishing.

All of the images from the uploaded PDF will be available in the media library, which can be accessed within the "PDF images" tab upon uploading images on a Title or Content page. So, if any weren’t included during the conversion or you’d like to reuse them, you can easily add them into the Doc.

Take a look at this article for a helpful checklist of things to look out for when you’re reviewing your Doc.

If you have any questions about converting content in Turtl, take a look at our FAQs or reach out to the support team at support@turtl.co

We’d love to hear your feedback on the feature! Please share with the support team at support@turtl.co

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