How do I scan several pages into one file using my printer?

First, check which scanning options your printer and its software offer. If it has a document feeder, the scanning app may let you choose that as the source; otherwise, you may be able to scan from the glass. HP’s documented HP app workflow lets users select the source and save a multi-page scan as one PDF, but the steps and app availability can vary by operating system. That example doesn’t establish that every printer or app offers the same controls. [S1]

Also decide what file format you need. In Epson Scan 2, PDF and Multi-TIFF support multiple pages in one file; other formats save pages separately. Those instructions apply to Epson Scan 2, not necessarily to your printer’s software. [S2]

Use the feeder if your printer has one and the documents are appropriate for it; HP describes its ADF as being for documents. Use the glass if that is the available source or if you need to place pages individually. The supplied sources don’t specify which method is best for every paper type, printer, or document, so check your device’s instructions if you’re unsure. [S1]

Before scanning, put the pages in the order you want to read them. If you use the glass, scan a page, then look for an option such as “Add page” or “Scan another page.” The label and availability depend on the software; don’t assume the same control appears in every app.

Choose a format that supports multiple pages before saving. If you’re using Epson Scan 2, select PDF or Multi-TIFF for a single file; the software also offers controls to add, remove, rotate, and reorder pages. [S2] In other software, look for equivalent options, but confirm they exist for your model rather than relying on the Epson instructions.

A useful final check is to preview the pages before saving. Confirm that the first page appears first, later pages follow in the intended order, and you selected a multipage format. If a preview or page-management screen isn’t available, open the saved file to check it.

Worked example: Suppose you have a four-page handout and want one PDF. If your scanner software supports it, choose the feeder or glass, select a multipage PDF option, scan all four pages, review their order, and save as [handout-name].pdf. If the glass workflow pauses after each page, use the app’s add-page or continue-scan option if available. If you only get separate image files, check the format and software options; the device may not support the workflow you expected.

1. Check whether your printer and scanning app offer a document feeder, glass scanning, or both.
2. Arrange the originals in the order you want the final document to read.
3. Choose a format that supports multiple pages, if available. In Epson Scan 2, PDF and Multi-TIFF support multiple pages. [S2]
4. Scan from the selected source, adding pages if the glass workflow requires separate scans and the app supports that option.
5. Review page order and orientation using the available preview or page controls.
6. Save as [descriptive-name].pdf, then open the saved file to check that it contains the pages you intended.

These steps are a workflow, not a guarantee that a particular printer supports every option. The supplied guidance covers a specific HP app workflow and Epson Scan 2 features; it does not establish identical menus or capabilities across brands and models. [S1] [S2]