How to Write on a PDF Document for Free (Mac, Windows & Online)

Need to fill out a form, add notes to a school assignment, or correct a typo in a contract? Knowing how to write on a PDF is a necessary skill, but many people think they need to purchase expensive software like Adobe Acrobat to do it.

Fortunately, you can type, write, or draw on a PDF for free using tools already built into your computer, or by using a secure online editor. In this guide, we'll walk you through all three free methods.

Method 1: Write on a PDF Online (Easiest & Cross-Platform)

If you need to change existing text, add signatures, or work across different devices (like moving between Windows, Mac, or a phone), an online PDF editor is the fastest method.

1. Open the free Edit PDF Tool on PDF Wizard Hub.
2. Upload your PDF document by dragging and dropping it into the upload box.
3. To edit existing text: Select the "Edit Text" tool, click on any text block on the page, and type your changes.
4. To add new text: Select the "Insert Text" tool, click anywhere on the page, and type. You can adjust the font, size, alignment, and color.
5. To draw or highlight: Use the "Annotate" options to draw freehand or highlight paragraphs.
6. Click "Save Changes" and download your completed PDF.

Method 2: How to Write on a PDF on Windows (Built-in)

If you are on Windows 10 or 11, you don't need to download any apps. The default web browser, **Microsoft Edge**, has a built-in PDF writer.

1. Right-click your PDF file, go to "Open with", and choose "Microsoft Edge".
2. To type text: Click the "Add text" (T) icon in the top toolbar, click where you want to write, and type.
3. To draw or annotate: Click the "Draw" (pencil icon) to write freehand, or the "Highlight" pen to highlight text.
4. Click the "Save" button (floppy disk icon) in the top right to save your edits.

Note: Microsoft Edge only lets you add new text on top of the PDF. It does not allow you to edit or change the original text inside the PDF. To change existing text, use Method 1.

Method 3: How to Write on a PDF on Mac (Built-in)

Mac computers come with a built-in tool called **Preview** that lets you write on PDFs easily.

1. Double-click your PDF file to open it in Preview (the default viewer).
2. Click the **"Show Markup Toolbar"** button (looks like a pen tip inside a circle) in the top right.
3. To type text: Click the "Text" (T) box tool. A text box will appear on your page. Type your text, drag it into position, and use the "A" icon to change colors and fonts.
4. To draw: Click the "Sketch" or "Draw" tool to write freehand with a mouse or trackpad.
5. Go to File > Save to save your changes.