Filling out a PDF on your iPhone is easier than you might think. All you need is the built-in Files app and a few taps here and there, and you’ll be adding text to PDFs in no time. It’s a handy skill to have, especially when you’re on the go and need to complete a form quickly.
Step by Step Tutorial: How to Fill Out a PDF on iPhone
Before we dive into the steps, let’s get a quick overview of what we’re about to do. We’ll be using the Files app on your iPhone to open the PDF, then we’ll use the markup tool to fill in the necessary fields. Let’s get started!
Step 1: Open the Files app on your iPhone
The Files app is your gateway to all the documents saved on your iPhone.
Once you’ve opened the Files app, navigate to the location where your PDF is saved. This could be in your iCloud Drive, on your iPhone, or in another cloud service like Dropbox or Google Drive that you’ve connected to the Files app.
Step 2: Locate and tap on the PDF you need to fill out
Find that pesky form that you need to fill in.
After tapping on the PDF, it will open in a preview mode. Here you can scroll through to make sure it’s the correct document.
Step 3: Tap the Markup icon
It’s time to get down to business and start filling out your form.
The Markup icon looks like a pen tip. It’s usually located at the top-right corner of the screen. Once you tap it, you’ll see a variety of tools appear at the bottom of the screen.
Step 4: Use the Text tool to add text to the PDF
Tap the “+” icon, then select the Text option to start typing.
You can move the text box around to the exact spot you want to fill in. You can also adjust the font size and style to match the form’s existing text.
Step 5: Save or Share the filled-out PDF
Don’t forget to save your hard work.
Once you’re done filling out the form, you can tap ‘Done’ to save the changes. If you need to send the filled-out PDF to someone, you can tap the Share icon and choose how you want to share it.
After completing these steps, your PDF should be filled out and ready to go. You can save it back to the Files app, send it via email, or share it through other apps.
Tips: How to Fill Out a PDF on iPhone
- If you make a mistake while filling out the PDF, simply tap the Undo button to remove your last action.
- For a more precise text placement, use two fingers to zoom in on the area where you want to add text.
- If you need to fill out a PDF often, consider creating a blank template to save time.
- Use the drawing tools in Markup to add a signature to your PDF.
- Remember to regularly update your Files app for the best performance and newest features.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I fill out any PDF on my iPhone?
As long as the PDF is not locked or protected, you should be able to fill it out using the Markup tool in the Files app.
Do I need to download any additional apps to fill out a PDF on my iPhone?
No, you can use the built-in Files app and its Markup feature to fill out PDF forms.
Can I save the filled-out PDF back to a cloud service?
Yes, after filling out the PDF, you can save it directly to any cloud service you have connected to the Files app.
What if the text I add doesn’t match the PDF’s existing text?
You can change the font, size, and color of the text you add to better match the rest of the document.
Can I add a signature to the PDF?
Yes, you can use the drawing tools in Markup to add a handwritten signature to the PDF.
Summary
- Open the Files app.
- Locate and tap on the PDF.
- Tap the Markup icon.
- Use the Text tool to add text.
- Save or Share the filled-out PDF.
Conclusion
Now that you’ve read this article, filling out a PDF on your iPhone should be a piece of cake. It’s a skill that will save you time and hassle, especially when you’re on the move and need to handle paperwork digitally. Remember, the Files app is a powerful tool that’s right at your fingertips, and it’s always getting better with each iOS update. So, next time you get a PDF form sent to your iPhone, don’t sweat it—just open up Files, tap on Markup, and fill it out with ease. Happy form-filling!
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.