pdf-basics

Extract text, images, and tables from PDFs using Python libraries.

Updated Aug 27, 2026
One-click install
npx skills add https://github.com/tanaer/lobster-university-v2 --skill pdf-basics
Or copy as Structured Prompt for Agent
Please help me install this Agent Skill.
Skill: pdf-basics
Source: https://github.com/tanaer/lobster-university-v2/tree/main/skills/courses/pdf-basics
Command: npx skills add https://github.com/tanaer/lobster-university-v2 --skill pdf-basics

SYSTEM DOCUMENTATION & REQUIREMENTS

💡 This Skill requires PyMuPDF, pypdf, ReportLab, FPDF, and includes scripts (resource) and references (resource) components.

What problem does it solve?

This Skill empowers you to efficiently extract information from existing PDF documents and create new PDF files programmatically, streamlining document handling workflows.

Core Features & Use Cases

  • Text & Image Extraction: Extract text content, images, and tables from PDF files.
  • PDF Generation: Create new PDF documents from scratch with text, tables, and images.
  • PDF Manipulation: Merge, split, rotate, add watermarks, and encrypt/decrypt PDF files.
  • Use Case: Automatically generate monthly reports in PDF format, extract data from scanned invoices, or combine multiple research papers into a single document.

Quick Start

Use the pdf-basics skill to extract all text and images from the document named 'sample.pdf'.

Frequently Asked Questions about pdf-basics

High-intent search queries and answers about installing and using this skill.

FAQPage Schema
How do I extract text and images from a PDF file using Python?

To extract text and images from a PDF file using Python, you can utilize libraries like PyMuPDF and pypdf. This enables automated retrieval of document content, including text, images, and tables, for downstream data processing workflows.

What's the best way to generate a PDF document from scratch with Python?

The best way to generate a PDF document from scratch with Python is by using ReportLab or FPDF. These libraries support programmatic creation of new PDF files containing text, tables, and images for automated report generation.

Can I merge, split, and encrypt PDF files programmatically with pypdf?

Yes, you can merge, split, rotate, and encrypt PDF files programmatically with pypdf. This approach facilitates secure document manipulation and automated organization of multiple PDF documents into a single file.

Does PyMuPDF support extracting tables from PDF documents?

PyMuPDF supports extracting tables from PDF documents alongside text and images. This capability addresses the need to parse structured data from scanned invoices or research papers for automated document processing tasks.

When do I need to programmatically add watermarks to PDF files?

You need to programmatically add watermarks to PDF files when branding or securing distributed documents like monthly reports. Python libraries like pypdf enable automated watermark application across multiple PDF files during document manipulation workflows.