How to Mark Up PDFs on iPad

Step by step

1. 30 sec

   Access the Markup toolbar

   Open your PDF in Files, Mail, or any document-compatible application. Tap the Markup icon, which appears as a pen nib inside a circle, located in the top navigation bar to activate the annotation suite.

   Note: If you do not see the icon, tap the Share button first, then select Markup from the share sheet.
2. 1 min

   Select your writing tools

   Choose a tool from the floating toolbar: Pencil, Marker, Pen, or Eraser. Tap your selected tool a second time to adjust its stroke thickness and opacity settings via the slider.

   Note: Use the Color Picker icon at the end of the palette to define precise hex or spectrum colors.
3. 1 min

   Add shapes and text

   Tap the plus (+) button to reveal the objects menu. Select Text to create a text box, or choose a shape like a square, circle, or arrow to highlight specific areas of the PDF.

   Note: Drag the blue handles on shapes to resize or constrain proportions.
4. 1 min

   Insert a digital signature

   Within the plus (+) menu, tap Signature. Select an existing saved signature or tap Add or Remove Signature to create a new one using your finger or Apple Pencil.

   Note: Saved signatures sync across your iCloud-connected devices.
5. 30 sec

   Finalize your document

   Once finished, tap Done in the upper-left corner of the screen. The system will save your annotations directly into the existing PDF file structure.

   Note: Use the Undo and Redo arrows if you need to revert any specific annotation steps.