pdf

Extract text and tables from PDFs using Python libraries.

38|3|Updated May 7, 2026
One-click install
npx skills add https://github.com/Chanw-research/claude-code-paper-writing --skill pdf-chanw-research
Or copy as Structured Prompt for Agent
Please help me install this Agent Skill.
Skill: pdf
Source: https://github.com/Chanw-research/claude-code-paper-writing/tree/main/skills/document-handling/pdf
Command: npx skills add https://github.com/Chanw-research/claude-code-paper-writing --skill pdf-chanw-research

SYSTEM DOCUMENTATION & REQUIREMENTS

What problem does it solve?

PDF handling often requires manual steps to read, extract data from, merge, split, and fill forms across many documents; this skill consolidates these tasks into automation, saving time and reducing errors.

Core Features & Use Cases

  • Read and extract text and tables from PDFs
  • Merge, split, rotate, watermark, and create PDFs
  • Fill forms, encrypt/decrypt PDFs, extract images, and OCR on scanned documents
  • Use-case example: processing batches of invoices to extract data and compile it into a structured format for analysis

Quick Start

Ask the skill to extract all text from a PDF document and save it to a text file.

Frequently Asked Questions about pdf

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

FAQPage Schema
How do I extract text and tables from a PDF for data analysis?

To extract text and tables from PDF documents, you can automate the process using Python libraries like pdfplumber to read content and compile structured data. This handles administrative and research tasks by converting unstructured PDFs into analysis-ready formats.

Can I perform OCR on scanned PDF files to extract data?

Yes, you can perform OCR on scanned PDF files to extract data using pdf2image combined with OCR techniques. This allows you to read and digitize text from image-based scanned documents, making them searchable and ready for automated data extraction workflows.

What's the best way to merge, split, or watermark multiple PDF documents?

The best way to merge, split, or watermark PDF documents is to automate these operations using Python libraries like pypdf. Automating batch processing ensures consistent results across files, saving time and reducing manual errors in document management.

How do I fill forms and encrypt PDF files programmatically?

You can fill forms and encrypt PDF files programmatically by using Python libraries such as pypdf to apply form fields and set password protection. This automates document security and data entry tasks across administrative and data-collection workflows.

Does this PDF processing approach work for batch processing invoices?

Yes, this PDF processing approach works for batch processing invoices by extracting data from multiple files and compiling it into a structured format. Automating this extraction saves significant time and reduces errors compared to handling each invoice manually.

What are the limitations of using pypdf and pdfplumber for PDF extraction?

Limitations of using pypdf and pdfplumber for PDF extraction include difficulty reading text from scanned documents without applying OCR first. Complex PDF layouts may also require additional processing to accurately extract tables and structured data for analysis.