Python Requires Chilkat v11.7.0+

Extract One Section of a PDF by its Heading

See more PDF Text Extraction Examples

Demonstrates "labelValue": "section", which returns everything from a heading up to the next heading of the same or higher level. With the "markdown" operation the section keeps its own sub-headings. Chilkat2-Python

import sys
import chilkat2

success = False

# This example requires the Chilkat API to have been previously unlocked.
# See Global Unlock Sample for sample code.

# The PDF used in this example is available at sectioned_doc.pdf

pdf = chilkat2.Pdf()
success = pdf.LoadFile("qa_data/pdf/sectioned_doc.pdf")
if (success == False):
    print(pdf.LastErrorText)
    sys.exit()

json = chilkat2.JsonObject()
jsonOut = chilkat2.JsonObject()

# The document has the sections Introduction, Opening Hours, Terms and Conditions (with the
# sub-sections Admission, Safety and Liability) and Contact.  Get the Terms and Conditions:
# everything after that heading up to the next heading of the same level (Contact).  The heading
# itself is not part of the value; labelMatches[0].label has it.
json.UpdateString("label","Terms and Conditions")
json.UpdateString("labelValue","section")

success = pdf.ExtractText("markdown",json,jsonOut)
if (success == False):
    print(pdf.LastErrorText)
    sys.exit()

print(jsonOut.StringOf("markdown"))

# The same with the "text" operation gives the section as plain text.
success = pdf.ExtractText("text",json,jsonOut)
if (success == False):
    print(pdf.LastErrorText)
    sys.exit()

print("---- as text ----")
print(jsonOut.StringOf("text"))

# Sample output:

# ### Admission
# 
# Admission is free. Groups of more than ten should book in advance so that a volunteer can be assigned to them.
# 
# ### Safety
# 
# No more than eight people may be on the stair at one time. Children under twelve must be accompanied by an adult, and the lantern room is closed in high winds.
# 
# ### Liability
# 
# Visitors climb the tower at their own risk. The society carries public liability insurance but accepts no responsibility for personal property.
# ---- as text ----
# Admission
# 
# Admission is free. Groups of more than ten should book in advance so that a volunteer can be assigned to them.
# 
# Safety
# 
# No more than eight people may be on the stair at one time. Children under twelve must be accompanied by an adult, and the lantern room is closed in high winds.
# 
# Liability
# 
# Visitors climb the tower at their own risk. The society carries public liability insurance but accepts no responsibility for personal property.