---
title: "Create document layers | Nutrient"
canonical_url: "https://www.nutrient.io/guides/document-engine/instant-synchronization/instant-layers/"
md_url: "https://www.nutrient.io/guides/document-engine/instant-synchronization/instant-layers.md"
last_updated: "2026-05-26T07:56:07.387Z"
description: "Discover how to create and manage PDF layers for seamless collaboration and feedback with our Instant Layers API."
---

# Document layers for all workflows

## What is an Instant layer?

An Instant layer represents a set of document changes, such as annotations, bookmarks, form fields, and digital signatures. Users with write access can edit the layer, while those with read access can only view it.

## What it’s best for

Layers are ideal for independent review workflows where multiple parties need to annotate or modify the same document separately. Common use cases include:

- **Student-teacher workflows** — Students annotate the same PDF independently, while teachers provide private feedback on each student’s layer

- **Multi-reviewer processes** — Different reviewers provide feedback without seeing each other’s comments

## Benefits

- **Low storage cost** —  Layers on the same document identifier share access to the same source file, eliminating the need to reupload, while keeping each layer’s content isolated

- **Minimal bandwidth** — Adding layers doesn’t require transferring the document again

- **Scalable** — It’s inexpensive to add multiple layers on clients and servers

For more information about layers, refer to our [Instant Layers](https://www.nutrient.io/api/reference/document-engine/upstream/#tag/Layers) API reference for Document Engine.
---

## Related pages

- [Authenticate clients with JWT in Document Engine](/guides/document-engine/instant-synchronization/authentication.md)
- [Adding comments to PDFs on web and mobile](/guides/document-engine/instant-synchronization/comments.md)
- [Instant sync and real-time collaboration](/guides/document-engine/instant-synchronization.md)
- [Integrate real-time collaboration with instant sync](/guides/document-engine/instant-synchronization/get-started.md)