> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://learn.withessential.com/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://learn.withessential.com/field-operations/mobile/open-shared-documents.md).

# Use documents in the mobile app

Use the Documents library to open reference photos and files from the office or keep private documents of your own. Documents are not tied to a particular visit, so you can reach them from anywhere in the main mobile app.

> **Where to find it:** Select the document icon opposite your avatar at the top of Visits, Reports, or Timecard.

![Document shortcut in the mobile app header](/files/TgpGWTy9daGUiiNdFmSr)

## Open or download a shared document

1. Select the document icon in the header.
2. Find the document by its name and description.

Shared files appear under **Shared with me**.

![Shared and private technician documents](/files/1KJ56uh5RQkfgZFo6yPS)

3. Select the document to open it.
4. Select **Download** when you need a copy on your device or want to open it in another app.

![Preview a shared PDF](/files/Ip1t2Dnnat3KIvUSBCxq)

![Download a shared document](/files/3xF5vtc3zCtxP8dxSx54)

Pull down on the Documents list to check for newly shared files or audience changes. You need an internet connection to refresh the library or open a document.

Only documents shared with all technicians or specifically with you appear in your library. If an expected document is missing after a refresh, ask the office to check its audience.

## Upload a private document

1. Select the floating **+** in the lower-right corner of Documents.
2. Take a photo, select a photo, or select a file.
3. Enter the name you want to see.
4. Add an optional description.
5. Select **Upload**.

![Upload a private technician document](/files/jxJZRnD9C3v9Ym96EBC7)

The document appears under **My documents** with a **Private** label. Only your technician account can list, open, or download it. It does not appear to the office or other technicians.

![Private documents in the technician library](/files/vqMuJnVDE7jqir5J0Is7)

Private documents can be up to 25 MB.

## Delete a private document

Select the delete icon on a document under **My documents**, then confirm **Delete**. You can delete documents you uploaded, but not documents shared by the office.

![Delete a private technician document](/files/e4eZNdpqgGmZtBIGvh2t)

Deleting is permanent.

## Related guides

* [Share documents with technicians](/administration/settings/share-documents-with-technicians.md)
* [Sign in and navigate the mobile app](/field-operations/mobile/sign-in-and-navigation.md)
* [Mobile troubleshooting](/field-operations/mobile/mobile-troubleshooting.md)


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