---
title: "Create document layers | Nutrient"
canonical_url: "https://www.nutrient.io/guides/web/instant-synchronization/instant-layers/"
md_url: "https://www.nutrient.io/guides/web/instant-synchronization/instant-layers.md"
last_updated: "2026-06-09T10:25:14.536Z"
description: "Create layers for document collaboration using Nutrient Web SDK. Organize changes into separate layers for multiuser workflows, with optional real-time sync via Instant."
---

# Document layers for all workflows

Instant sync and collaboration is available when using [Web SDK](https://www.nutrient.io/guides/web.md) with [Document Engine](https://www.nutrient.io/guides/document-engine.md). For more information, refer to the [operational mode](https://www.nutrient.io/guides/web/about/operational-modes.md) guide.








## 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@1.8.3/#tag/Layers) API reference for Document Engine.
---

## Related pages

- [Integrating sync and collaboration into your JavaScript application](/guides/web/pspdfkit-instant/getting-started.md)
- [Instant sync and collaboration](/guides/web/instant-synchronization.md)
- [Secure client authentication with JWT for web apps](/guides/web/instant-synchronization/authentication.md)