What "compress" actually does (in simple terms)
Portals usually specify a file size limit in KB or MB. Compression reduces file size by removing some image detail and optimizing encoding. The trick is to reduce size while keeping text and face details readable.
For exam uploads, the best strategy is: get the correct pixels first (if required), then compress. If you compress a huge image first, you often lose quality and still miss the target.
Direct tool link
Open Compression Lab to compress JPG/PNG with preview.
The safest workflow for govt portals
- If pixels are required: Use Resize Lab first (exact pixels + padding, no stretching).
- Compress: Use Compression Lab until you hit the KB range.
- Check readability: Zoom in on face and text; ensure edges are not blocky.
Recommended targets (practical, not theoretical)
Every portal is different, but these targets reduce last-minute rework. Use them as a starting point and adjust based on official limits.
| Document type | Typical portal limit | Safe target |
|---|---|---|
| Passport photo (JPG) | 20-50 KB or 50-200 KB | 10-15% below max (e.g., 40-45 KB or 170-1–80 KB) |
| Signature image | 10-50 KB | 35-45 KB (if max 50 KB) |
| Scanned PDF (certificate) | 200 KB - 2 MB | Keep margin; aim 85-90% of max |
Common compression problems and fixes
Problem 1: Photo becomes blurry
You compressed too aggressively or started with a low-quality original. Fix: use a clearer original photo, resize correctly, then compress gradually. If the photo is dull, try mild improvements in Enhance Lab before compressing.
Problem 2: Text in a PDF becomes unreadable
Many PDFs are actually images (scans). If text is faint, enhance the scan first. To reduce PDF size safely, use: PDF → Image → Compress images → Images → PDF. For multi-page documents, split and upload only required pages using Split PDF.
Problem 3: File size does not reduce much
Some PDFs contain embedded fonts/vectors and are already optimized. If the portal allows, convert heavy PDFs into images and rebuild a lighter PDF. For photos, ensure the pixel dimensions are not unnecessarily large.
Our USP: Launch Toolkit (fastest last-date workflow)
When deadlines are close, the worst feeling is: file rejected, you re-export, and you still miss KB. SarkariPixel's Govt Exam Toolkit helps you open the correct workflow fast and stay consistent across resize, compress, and sign steps.
Direct links (tap and go)
- Compression Lab - compress JPG/PNG with preview
- Resize Lab - set correct pixels before compressing
- Enhance Lab - improve clarity for dull scans/photos
- PDF → Image + Images → PDF - reduce scanned PDF size safely
- Split PDF - upload only required pages
- Launch Toolkit - our USP for exam workflows
FAQ
How do I compress a photo to under 50 KB?
Resize to the correct pixels first (if required) using Resize Lab, then open Compression Lab and compress gradually until you reach 40-45 KB (safe target for max 50 KB).
Why does compressing reduce quality?
Compression removes some image detail to reduce file size. The key is to compress only as much as needed and start with a clear original file.
Can I compress a scanned PDF without losing readability?
Use the safe loop: PDF → Image → Compress images → Images → PDF. Enhance the scan first if text is faint.