Most portals want a clear PDF of each document. You do not need a scanner: your phone can do it.
Before you start
- Put the document on a flat, dark surface, such as a table, so the edges stand out.
- Use daylight from a window. Turn off the flash, because it causes glare.
- Wipe your camera lens.
Scan with an app you already have
- Android: open Google Drive, tap +, then Scan.
- iPhone: open the Notes app, tap the camera icon, then Scan Documents.
Hold the phone straight above the page so all four corners are in the frame. The app finds the edges and straightens the page for you.
Check before you save
- Zoom in and read a few lines. Every word and stamp must be readable.
- Scan all pages of one document in order, then save them as one PDF.
- Give the file a clear name (see Name your files properly).
If the file is too big
Open the Document Toolkit and use Make a PDF smaller. Choose the size the portal asks for.