How to Use the PDF Reader in Helperbird

Learn how to open, read, annotate, and work with PDF documents using Helperbird's powerful PDF Reader with note-taking, voice typing, translation, and more.

What is the PDF Reader?

The PDF Reader is a built-in tool that lets you open and read PDF documents directly in your browser with extra accessibility features. It includes tools for note-taking, annotations, voice typing, translation, and more.


Who is This For?

This feature is helpful for:

  • Students who read PDF textbooks and lecture notes
  • Researchers who work with academic papers
  • Anyone who needs to annotate PDF documents
  • People who want text-to-speech for PDFs
  • Anyone who needs to translate or summarize PDF content

Step 1: Open a PDF in Helperbird

When you view a PDF in your browser, look for the green "Open PDF in Helperbird – Click to Open" button at the bottom of the page.

Click this button.

The PDF will open in Helperbird's reader interface with all tools available.


Step 2: Navigate and Read

Once your PDF is open, you will see page numbers at the top for easy navigation.

Use the arrow buttons or type a page number to jump to a specific page.

You can also zoom in and out using the zoom controls.


Step 3: Take Notes

To open the note-taking panel, click the note button in the top toolbar.

This opens a split view with your PDF on the left and a note editor on the right.

In the note editor you can:

  • Type notes – Write your thoughts as you read
  • Voice Typing – Click the microphone icon to dictate notes instead of typing
  • Grammar/Spell Check – Click the "A" with checkmark icon to check for errors
  • Print – Click the print icon to print your notes
  • Download – Save your notes or the annotated PDF

Step 4: Use Quick Tools

Click the floating pink menu button on the right side of the screen to access quick tools:

  • Extract Text – Pull text from the PDF to use elsewhere
  • Summarize – Get a quick summary of the PDF content
  • View in Immersive Reader – Open the PDF in a clean reading mode
  • Translate – Translate the PDF content into different languages

Tip: The PDF Reader combines all of Helperbird's powerful tools in one place, making it perfect for studying, research, and document review. Use voice typing for quick note-taking and Annotation Mode to mark up important sections directly on the PDF.


Video Tutorial


Need Additional Help?

If you have any questions or run into any issues, please contact the Helperbird support team. You can reach us at Helperbird support. We are happy to help you get the most out of Helperbird.

Customer Testimonial

"After using Helperbird I can't say enough positive things about it. This extension has truly transformed my online reading experience. Whether it's adjusting font sizes, reducing eye strain with the gray filter, or using the dyslexia-friendly fonts, Helperbird offers a range of features that cater to individual preferences and needs. The customizable color options and text alignment have also been incredibly helpful for personalizing my browsing. And the speed reading feature? It's a game-changer! Overall, Helperbird is a versatile, user-friendly tool that enhances accessibility and makes online reading a breeze. Highly recommended!"

Profile picture of Charlie Nishelle Calkins
Charlie Nishelle Calkins
Helperbird Pro user
Helperbird logo: Stylized owl with large yellow eyes and a beige face, against a green background.

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Want to make browsing easier and more accessible? Helperbird has everything you need! With tools like Text to Speech , Immersive Reader , and more.