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The recommended format for web content is as an HTML publication. This is a time-stamped publication that opens in a web browser.
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When it is appropriate to use PDFs
It would be appropriate to use a PDF in these cases:
- you need to display complex content that is not web-friendly
- for example, complicated diagrams or flow charts
Otherwise we recommend publishing in HTML format.
All PDFs published on GOV.UK should have a Gateway number.
Drawbacks of using PDFs
Content must be accessible for users
The reason we prefer HTML to PDF is that HTML documents are more accessible for users.
It is important that users are able to quickly and effectively find informing using desktop, mobile and tablet devices.
We have a commitment to make our service accessible for anyone who needs it.
Why we use HTML as the preferred format
HTML is the recommended format for web content because:
- HTML documents are easier to read online
- HTML documents are easier for users to locate in the search engines
- HTML pages can be easily located on mobile devices
- we need to comply with 'open standards' - we need to make sure we do not discriminate against people with disabilities
- for example, content must be accessible by someone who has a visual impairment
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While PDFs are a useful document type for sharing internally, we do not use PDFs to share information on the web for these reasons:because this make
- PDFs cannot be easily discovered by users through the search engines
- PDFs are not mobile-friendly, so they are more difficult to access
- it is easier to keep an HTML document accurate and up to date
Why we use HTML as the preferred format
HTML is the recommended format for web content because:
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