Written by Admin on 2025-05-06

How to create a link to a PDF in WordPress and have it immediately download

WordPress is a great platform for hosting all types of content, including PDF files. However, linking to a PDF file in WordPress can be challenging, especially if you want the file to immediately download when someone clicks the link. In this article, we will walk you through the steps to create a link to a PDF in WordPress and have it immediately downloaded.

Step 1: Upload your PDF file to WordPress

Before you can create a link to your PDF file, you need to upload the file to WordPress. Head over to your WordPress dashboard and click on the Media tab. From there, click on the Add New button and upload your PDF file.

Step 2: Get the URL of your PDF file

Once your PDF file is uploaded, click on it in the Media Library to open it. On the right-hand side of the screen, you will see the File URL field. Copy the URL of your PDF file.

Step 3: Create a link to your PDF file

Next, you need to create a link to your PDF file. Go to the page or post where you want to add the link and highlight the text that you want to link to your PDF file. Click on the Insert/edit link button in the WordPress editor.

In the URL field, paste the URL of your PDF file. In the Link Text field, enter the text that you want to display as the link. If you want the PDF file to open in a new tab, check the Open link in a new tab box.

Step 4: Add the download attribute to your link

Now, we need to add the download attribute to your link, so your PDF file can immediately download when someone clicks on the link. Switch to the Text mode in the WordPress editor and locate the link that you just created. Add the download attribute to your link by inserting download="filename.pdf" after the URL of your PDF file. Replace filename.pdf with the name of your PDF file.

Step 5: Save and test your link

Save your page or post, and then test your link by clicking on it. Your PDF file should immediately download when someone clicks on the link.

In conclusion, creating a link to a PDF file in WordPress and having it immediately download can be accomplished by following the steps above. By doing so, your website visitors will have an easier time accessing your PDF files, making it more convenient for them to view and download your content.