By Megon VenterFri. 18 Aug. 20233min Read

How to Write on a PDF

Whether you're a student marking up an academic paper, or an employee reviewing a report, knowing how to write on a PDF is valuable. Here's a guide to help you do just that on PDF Reader Pro
How to Write on a PDF

PDFs have become essential for document sharing and storage. They're user-friendly, highly portable, and support various content, from texts to images.

There are times, however, when we need to start editing in PDF files or directly write on them.

 

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Megon Venter
B2B SaaS Content Writer
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Megon is a B2B SaaS Content Writer with 7 years of experience in content strategy and execution. Her expertise lies in the creation of document management tutorials and product comparisons.


How to Write on a PDF Using Windows OS

Step 1: Open your PDF Document to Add Text

Click "Open File" in the PDF editor or drag the file into the drop zone.


Image Source: PDF Reader Pro

Step 2: Click "Edit PDF"

Use our PDF tools found in the top-left corner and select "Add Text".  This will convert the entire document into an editable format. Click anywhere on the page to add original file content.


Image Source: PDF Reader Pro

Step 3: Change the Form Features 

On the top right corner, click "Properties" to change your text's color, size, or alignment. 


Image Source: PDF Reader Pro

Step 1: Open Your PDF File to add Dots, Lines, and Signatures

Click "Open File" or drag your file into the drop zone to start writing on PDFs. 


Image Source: PDF Reader Pro

Step 2: Click "Fill and Sign"

PDF Reader Pro allows you to create fillable forms. The editing interface menu allows you to select quick edits, such as adding a signature or using the oval icon to circle items. 


Image Source: PDF Reader Pro


At times, PDFs refuse to open with no explanation; therefore, we need to troubleshoot our PDFs.

How to Write on a PDF Using Mac OS

Step 1: Open your PDF Document to add text

Click "Open File" or drag your PDF file into the drop zone of the PDF editor. 


Image Source: PDF Reader Pro

Step 2: Click "Edit PDF"

Select "Add Text" from the menu bar above. Click anywhere to open a dialogue box.


Image Source: PDF Reader Pro

Step 3: Use the Handy Markup Tools

Click anywhere on the page to add a text box. The "Properties" panel offers effortless design options for selecting color styles. 


Image Source: PDF Reader Pro

Step 1: To add Dots, Lines, and Signatures

Click "Fill and Sign".

 
Image Source: PDF Reader Pro

Step 2: Select Additions from the Editing Interface

Select different options from the menu that allow you to sign the document or add lines and other elements. 



Image Source: PDF Reader Pro

"PDF Reader Pro transcends the typical PDF tool experience. Its team is passionately committed to enhancing the document management abilities of modern professionals."
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Theodore Cipolla
B2B SaaS Content Marketer
Source: LinkedIn

 

How to Write on a PDF Best Practice

When writing or annotating a PDF, it's essential to follow certain best practices to ensure clarity and maintain the document's professionalism:

  • Be Clear: Make sure your writing is legible and concise when adding notes or comments. Remember, others might need to understand your notes.

  • Use Colors Wisely: If highlighting or using colored text, choose colors that stand out against the document's background but are not too harsh on the eyes.

  • Maintain Original Content: Avoid overwriting the original text in the document. Instead, use the margins or the comment feature to add your notes.

  • Back-Up the Original: Keeping a copy of the original PDF is a good idea before making extensive annotations or edits. This ensures that you always have an unaltered version.

  • Limit Font Varieties: If you add text, match the original document's font or stick to universally accepted fonts like Times New Roman or Arial.

 

“As a content creator, having a reliable PDF reader and editor is crucial. PDF Reader Pro’s editing and conversion tools help me easily navigate tasks for every client.”
person
Megon Venter
B2B SaaS Content Writer
Source: LinkedIn


The ability to write on a PDF makes reviewing, and feedback processes more efficient and transforms the way we interact with digital content. Annotations are also a very helpful tool within PDF Reader Pro for myself as a content writer.


With the right tools and best practices, you can ensure that your annotations enhance, rather than detract from, the original document. 

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How to Write on a PDF FAQs

Why would I need to write on a PDF?

Writing on a PDF is useful for providing feedback, marking up academic papers, filling out forms, or adding notes to digital reading material like e-books.

Do I need special PDF software to write on a PDF?

While you only sometimes need specialized software, specific tools like PDF Reader Pro make the process easier and more efficient with extra PDF tools. 

Can I use the annotation tools on any PDF?

Most PDF software tools allow annotations. However, some might be protected or locked, preventing edits. You'll need permission or a password to write on such PDFs.

What's the difference between highlighting and annotating?

Highlighting refers to marking a section of text to emphasize it, while annotating involves adding notes, comments, or other markings to provide additional information or feedback.

Is it safe to use online platforms for editing my PDFs?

Avoid uploading sensitive or confidential documents to online document viewers. Also, check the platform's privacy policy to ensure they don't store your files.

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