Editing PDFs can seem like a daunting task, especially if you don’t want to shell out cash for expensive software. But fear not, Windows users! You can actually make simple edits to your PDFs using tools that are already on your computer, totally free of charge. With just a few clicks, you can add text, highlight sections, and even sign documents without spending a dime.
Step by Step Tutorial: Editing PDFs for Free with Windows Tools
Before we dive into the steps, let’s talk about what we’re going to accomplish. These steps will show you how to edit PDFs using the built-in Microsoft Edge browser on your Windows computer. No need to download any additional programs or apps!
Step 1: Open the PDF in Microsoft Edge
Simply right-click on the PDF file, choose ‘Open with’ and select ‘Microsoft Edge’.
This will open your PDF in a new Microsoft Edge browser tab. It’s that easy to get started!
Step 2: Use the Draw or Highlight Tools
Click on the pen or highlighter icons in the top right corner to add annotations to your PDF.
You can change the color and size of your markings, and even erase them if you make a mistake. The changes will be saved automatically as you work.
Step 3: Add Text or Signatures
Select the ‘Add Text’ button to type directly onto the PDF, or the ‘Sign’ button to draw your signature.
After you type or sign, you can move the text box or signature to the exact spot you want it. Just click and drag!
Step 4: Save Your Edited PDF
Once you’re done making changes, click the ‘Save’ or ‘Save As’ button to keep your edits.
Choose where you want to save the edited PDF on your computer. You can even rename the file if you want.
After you complete these steps, your PDF will be edited and saved on your computer. You’ve successfully made changes without needing any special software or subscriptions!
Tips: Editing PDFs for Free with Windows Tools
- If you need to edit text that’s already in the PDF, you can’t directly edit it using these tools. Instead, convert the PDF to a Word document, make your changes, and then save it back as a PDF.
- The ‘Read Aloud’ feature in Microsoft Edge can be helpful if you want to listen to the content of the PDF as you edit.
- To remove pages from the PDF or merge multiple PDFs into one file, look for online tools that can perform these functions for free.
- When adding text, you can adjust the font size and style to match the existing text in the document.
- Remember to double-check your work before saving the final document. Once saved, you cannot undo the changes made using these tools.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I edit images in a PDF using Microsoft Edge?
No, these tools do not allow you to edit or alter images within a PDF.
Is it possible to delete or rearrange pages in a PDF with these steps?
No, these steps are for basic editing like adding text or annotations. To delete or rearrange pages, you’ll need a different tool.
Will my annotations be visible to others when I share the PDF?
Yes, all changes and annotations you make will be visible to anyone you share the PDF with.
Can I fill out forms using these tools?
Yes, you can use the ‘Add Text’ button to fill out form fields in a PDF.
Is it possible to edit secured or password-protected PDFs?
No, you won’t be able to edit secured or password-protected PDFs using Microsoft Edge. You’ll need the password to unlock the PDF first.
Summary
- Open the PDF in Microsoft Edge
- Use the Draw or Highlight Tools
- Add Text or Signatures
- Save Your Edited PDF
Conclusion
Editing PDFs doesn’t have to be a hassle or a hit to your wallet. With Windows tools like Microsoft Edge, making simple edits to your PDF files is not only possible but also completely free. Whether you need to sign a document, highlight key points for a presentation, or fill out a digital form, the steps outlined in this article have got you covered.
Remember, while these tools are great for basic edits, they do have their limitations. They won’t replace professional PDF editing software for more advanced tasks, like altering images or restructuring entire documents. But for the everyday user looking to make quick adjustments, Windows provides a convenient solution that’s right at your fingertips.
Now that you know how easy it is to edit PDFs for free with Windows tools, why not give it a try? You might be surprised at how much you can do without spending a penny. So go ahead, take control of your PDFs and edit away!
Matthew Burleigh has been writing tech tutorials since 2008. His writing has appeared on dozens of different websites and been read over 50 million times.
After receiving his Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Computer Science he spent several years working in IT management for small businesses. However, he now works full time writing content online and creating websites.
His main writing topics include iPhones, Microsoft Office, Google Apps, Android, and Photoshop, but he has also written about many other tech topics as well.