How to Use Freeform on iPad

Step by step

1. 1 min

   Open Freeform and create your first board

   Tap the Freeform app icon on your home screen. On the main screen, tap the plus (+) button in the top-right corner to create a new board. Your blank canvas appears immediately, ready for content.

   Note: Pinch to zoom out for an overview of your entire board, or zoom in for detailed work on specific sections.
2. 2 min

   Add text and sticky notes to your board

   Double-tap anywhere on the canvas to create a text box. Type your content and tap outside the box to finish. For sticky notes, tap the plus (+) button in the toolbar, select Sticky Note, then choose your preferred color and start typing.

   Note: Use Command+T to quickly add a new text box, or Command+Shift+N for a new sticky note.
3. 2 min

   Draw and sketch with Apple Pencil

   Select the pen tool from the toolbar at the bottom of the screen. Choose your preferred brush type, color, and thickness from the options that appear. Draw directly on the canvas with Apple Pencil or your finger. Tap the eraser tool to remove unwanted marks.

   Note: Double-tap Apple Pencil to switch between your current tool and the eraser instantly.
4. 2 min

   Import photos, documents, and files

   Tap the plus (+) button in the toolbar and select Photo Library, Files, or Camera to add content. Choose your file and it appears on the canvas. Drag the corners to resize images and documents. Double-tap imported PDFs to open them for viewing or annotation.

   Note: Drag files directly from other apps into Freeform using Split View or Slide Over for faster importing.
5. 2 min

   Organize content with shapes and connectors

   Tap the plus (+) button and select Shapes to add circles, rectangles, arrows, and lines. Draw connectors between objects by selecting the line tool and dragging from one item to another. Use these elements to create flowcharts, mind maps, and organizational diagrams.

   Note: Hold down on shapes to access additional formatting options like fill color, border thickness, and transparency.
6. 2 min

   Collaborate with others in real-time

   Tap the collaborate button (person icon with a plus) in the top-right corner. Choose how to share your board via Messages, Mail, or by copying a link. Recipients can view and edit simultaneously. Each collaborator's cursor appears in a different color during active editing.

   Note: Use the participants list to see who's currently viewing your board and follow their cursor by tapping their name.
7. 1 min

   Navigate and organize your boards

   Return to the main Freeform screen to see all your boards in a grid view. Tap and hold any board to rename, duplicate, or delete it. Use the search bar at the top to find specific boards by name. Tap Recent to see your most recently accessed boards.

   Note: Create board folders by dragging one board onto another, then name your folder for better organization.
8. 1 min

   Export and share your completed work

   Open your board and tap the share button (square with arrow) in the top-right corner. Choose Export as PDF to create a static version, or Share Board Link to give others ongoing access. Select your preferred sharing method from the options that appear.

   Note: Use Print to create physical copies, or save to Files for offline access and external storage.