Putting two PDF pages beside each other is useful for compact notes, but a folded booklet needs a different page order. The outer sheet must contain pages that become the outside of the finished book, rather than simply the first two pages side by side.

Let one program arrange the booklet

In the desktop Acrobat Print dialogue, use Booklet under Page Sizing & Handling. Adobe documents binding options, automatic page rotation and a choice between both sides or separate front-side and back-side passes. Automatic duplex requires a printer that actually supports it.

Start with the intended document page range. Keep the distinction between PDF pages and physical sheets clear: the Sheets controls refer to the imposed output, not directly to page numbers printed in the document. Avoid applying a second booklet or multiple-pages transformation in the printer driver unless a documented workflow requires it.

Check that the PDF itself is already in normal reading order. If a designer supplied an imposed printer spread, ask for the appropriate print instructions rather than imposing it again.

Fold a proof before judging the result

Print a single copy on ordinary supported paper, then assemble and fold it as the reader will. Walk through the cover, inside pages and back cover in order. Check the centre spread, upright text and adequate space beside the fold.

A screen preview cannot show whether the manual second pass was loaded correctly. If you use manual duplex, follow the exact printer's reinsertion instructions and keep the first pass together.

Read the smallest text after folding; scaling a full-size document into a booklet can make footnotes impractical. Resolve that in the document or choose a larger finished size before producing many copies. Retain the approved proof with the chosen page range, binding setting and paper so repeat runs have a concrete reference.

Sources: Adobe booklet instructions.