Guide
Convert a Google Colab Notebook to PDF
Prepare saved Google Colab output for a readable PDF and choose the right privacy path for the notebook.
Save the output you want to share
Colab notebooks use the Jupyter `.ipynb` format and can include code, text, and saved output. Before making a PDF, run the required cells, review the visible results, and save the notebook so the intended charts and tables are present.
A notebook does not carry its active runtime with it. Files, installed packages, and a temporary execution session are separate from the saved notebook, so a later viewer cannot recreate missing results just by opening the file.
Choose the privacy path
To create a private browser-side print copy, download the `.ipynb` file from Colab or Google Drive, then use this site's local converter. The file is processed in your browser and is not uploaded for conversion.
Sharing a Colab notebook shares its text, code, saved output, and comments with the people you authorize. Review saved output for data that should not accompany the shared notebook or exported PDF.
Prepare the print layout
Select Report mode when a reader needs the narrative and results but not the code cells. Select Full Notebook when source code and saved output must remain together for review or reproduction.
Use the preview to spot wide tables, long code, and interactive content. A PDF is static, so save a static chart or table in the notebook before converting when an interactive visualization is essential.
Do not run an unfamiliar notebook casually
Opening a notebook for review does not require executing it. Read unfamiliar code before connecting to a runtime or choosing Run All, especially when it installs packages, mounts storage, calls external services, or accesses files.
For a read-only review, use a local viewer rather than a hosted runtime. This keeps the notebook in the browser and avoids executing its cells.
Last reviewed against official documentation: 2026-08-09. Source: Google Colab FAQ