Forum Discussion
Rise Button Stack and PDFs
I am using the button stack to share resources. Most come directly from our website, but a few are PDFs that are not on our website. When I open the PDF, it has a share button and I copy the link and...
Yes — as long as the PDF’s share setting is “Anyone on the internet with the link”, users will be able to access and download it.
Key points to keep in mind:
- Direct link – Make sure the URL you paste in the Button Stack points directly to the PDF file, not to a preview page or a web viewer wrapper. Some cloud services generate links that open a viewer first; this usually still allows downloads, but behavior can vary.
- Permissions – “Anyone with the link” is sufficient for public access. If the PDF is restricted to specific accounts or requires login, users won’t be able to download it.
- Testing – Before publishing your course, open the link in an incognito/private browser window (or a browser where you’re logged out) to confirm users can download it without issues.
Optional tip: Consider using a service that provides a direct download link to avoid confusing users who may see a preview instead of downloading immediately.
In short: Yes, your approach works, just double-check the link and permissions to ensure a smooth download experience for learners.