What is linearized pdf?

Linearized PDF, also known as fast web view PDF, is a type of PDF file that has been optimized for quick web viewing. When a PDF file is linearized, its internal structure is reorganized so that pages can be downloaded and viewed in a web browser without having to download the entire file first.

Linearized PDF files typically have a small initial section called the linearization parameter dictionary (also known as the "hint table") which allows the web browser to quickly locate and load the first page of the document. This allows users to start viewing the document almost immediately, without having to wait for the entire file to download.

Linearized PDF files are especially useful for large documents or documents that need to be viewed online quickly, such as user manuals, reports, or reference guides. They can be particularly helpful for websites that host a lot of PDF content, as they can improve the user experience by speeding up the loading time of PDF files.