While PDFs are electronic files, modern technology has made it easy to draw on PDFs, whether you’re giving feedback or adding your own notes. With the right tools, you can easily draw on PDF online and even access free options for quick edits. Many PDF drawing tools allow for seamless annotation, helping you highlight key parts or create custom shapes.
Many tutorials introduce various PDF drawing functions, but most of them require you to download apps, which is troublesome to operate. This blog will guide you on how to draw PDF on PC devices without third-party tools. It also recommends several easy-to-use PDF editing apps so that you can not only draw PDF, but also do more operations on PDF, such as editing, converting, signing, etc.
Using different pdf drawing tools on different platforms and devices, there are plenty of editing options. Here’s the introduction of various tools and steps on how to draw on a PDF.
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Drawing on a PDF on Windows with Microsoft Edge
Drawing on a PDF using Windows is simple with Microsoft Edge, which comes pre-installed on most Windows devices. The built-in PDF editor allows you to draw directly on a PDF without needing additional software. In this section, try to draw on pdfs with us with the following steps.
Step 1. Right-click your PDF file and select Open with > Microsoft Edge.
Step 2. Click the Draw
Step 3. Now, draw on your PDF. If you make a mistake, click the Erase
Step 4. Once done, click the Save or Save as icons to save your edited PDF.
Note: Microsoft Edge is set as the default PDF reader if you have a Windows 11 or Windows 10 device. If you are not using Windows 11 or Windows 10, search for it on your computer.
Drawing on a PDF on Mac with Preview
Preview, the default app on macOS, is not only a PDF viewer but also allows you to draw directly on PDFs. With Preview, you can open and browse PDF files while using built-in pdf drawing tools to draw lines, write notes, and markup key information.
Step 1. Right-click your PDF file and open with the Preview
Step 2. Click the Markup tab
Step 3. Start drawing on a pdf with a variety of drawing tools, including preset shapes like circles and stars. You can also draw freehand lines, create arrows, and add notes.
How to Draw on a PDF Online
If you don't want to download any software, don’t worry. You can draw on PDFs just as easily with ComPDFKit online tools.
Step 1. Click Open File and import the PDF.
Step 2. Click the Viewer drop-down bar at the top and select Annotations.
Step 3. Start drawing on a pdf with a variety of drawing tools, and click Delete to remove the draw.
Best PDF Drawing Tools: PDF Reader Pro
Use your creative skills to spruce up a PDF file or give feedback on graphs and text with our drawing options on PDF Reader Pro. As a professional PDF tool, we provide lots of free PDF features, like convert, compress, sign...
For Windows:
Step 1: Click Open File or drag it to the drop zone of our easy-to-use program;
Step 2: Click Tools on the Menu Bar;
Image Source: PDF Reader Pro
Step 3: Choose your favorite color pen and change your drawing color for any drawing PDF tools by tapping the properties tab on the top right-hand side.
Image Source: PDF Reader Pro
Step 4: Click Save or Save As to export all the added elements with ease.
For Mac:
Step 1: Open the document you want to draw on using your favorite device;
Step 2: Click Tools on the Menu Bar. There are four types of tools used for drawing on PDF Reader Pro, like Highlight, Underline, Strikethrough, and Freehand;
Image Source: PDF Reader Pro
Step 3: Pick your favorite stylus color and access additional settings and color styles by tapping the properties tab on the top right corner;
Image Source: PDF Reader Pro
Step 4: Click the File button and select Save As or Save to export the document in real time.
How to Draw on a PDF with Adobe
Adobe Acrobat provides a direct way to draw on a PDF, whether you need to add notes, highlight important details, or mark up a document. In addition to drawing pdfs, it can also perform more PDF operations. The only drawback is that the cost is relatively expensive.
The following are simple steps. For more detailed instructions, please click How to Draw on a PDF with Adobe.
Step 1: Launch Acrobat and navigate to Menu > Open to select and open the PDF file;
Step 2: In the toolbar, click on the Draw and activate it. You can also learn to change the font size in Adobe Acrobat, enabling you to adjust text for better readability.
Step 3: Begin drawing on your PDF with freehand, adding notes and directions as needed;
Step 4: Go to the Menu in the top left corner of your screen and select Save as...
Best Practices for Drawing on a PDF
Here are some best practices to keep in mind:
1. Use the Right Tools: Opt for reliable PDF editing software or apps offering a comprehensive drawing and annotation tool set, such as PDF Reader Pro.
2. Save Originals: Before making any changes, save a copy of the original PDF. This ensures you have an unaltered version in case of mistakes or if you need to refer back.
3. Opt for Clear Colors: While using a broad color palette might be tempting, sticking to clear, contrasting colors ensures your annotations are easily distinguishable from the original content.
4. Use Layers: Some advanced PDF editors allow you to add annotations on separate layers. This way, you can hide or display your drawings without affecting the base document.
5. Keep It Legible: If you add notes or feedback, ensure your handwriting (or typed text) is clear and legible for others to read.
6. Group Annotations: If you're making multiple annotations, some software allows you to group them together for more organized feedback.
You can also check out our resume resource on the 11 Best PDF Reader Tools for 2024.
How to Draw on a PDF: FAQs
Navigating the world of PDF annotations can be filled with numerous questions, especially for those new to the concept. Here are some frequently asked questions to guide your journey:
Q: Can I draw on a PDF without specialized software?
A: Using PDF Reader Pro, you can quickly and easily use various comprehensive drawing tools.
Q: Can I draw on a PDF using a tablet or smartphone?
A: Absolutely! Many PDF apps for tablets and smartphones, such as PDF Reader Pro for mobile, have drawing tools optimized for touchscreen use.
Q: Can I change the color and size of my annotations?
A: Most PDF editors provide options to customize your annotations' color, thickness, and style to fit your preferences.
Q: Are my annotations searchable within the PDF?
A: Text annotations, like comments or sticky notes, are often searchable. However, hand-drawn markings or sketches aren’t searchable unless the software has advanced recognition capabilities.
Q: What if my PDF is "read-only"? Can I still draw on it?
A: A "read-only" designation can prevent editing of the base content, but annotations are usually still permissible. However, if the PDF has been password-protected against annotations or modifications, you'll need the appropriate permissions to make changes.
Remember, drawing on a PDF offers a dynamic approach to engaging with content, providing feedback, and collaborating. Equip yourself with the right tools and knowledge to make the most of your PDF annotations! By understanding the best practices and tools available, you can ensure that your annotations are practical and professional.
