A PDF is more than just a static document; it's a canvas for collaboration and review. Annotating—the process of adding notes, comments, or highlights—is a core part of working with digital documents. Whether you're a student marking up a research paper or a professional giving feedback on a report, knowing how to annotate is essential.
This beginner's guide will walk you through the basics of annotating a PDF using a free online editor.
What is Annotation?
Annotation is the act of adding a layer of information on top of an existing document without changing the original content. Common types of annotations include:
- Highlighting Text: To draw attention to important passages.
- Adding Text Comments: For feedback, questions, or reminders.
- Strikethrough: To mark text for deletion.
- Drawing Shapes: Such as circles or arrows to point out specific elements.
How to Annotate with a Free Online Tool
While professional software like Adobe Acrobat has extensive annotation features, you can perform the most common tasks for free with an in-browser tool like Docento.app.
Here’s how you can get started:
1. Highlighting and Covering Text (The "White-Out" Trick) While our editor doesn't have a dedicated highlighter yet, you can achieve a similar effect. To "highlight" text, you can draw a semi-transparent colored box over it. To cover up text entirely, use our white-out trick.
2. Adding Text Comments This is the most common form of annotation.
- Select the Text Tool.
- Click anywhere in the margin or on the page where you want to add a note.
- Type your comment or feedback. You can adjust the font size and color to make your notes stand out.
3. Using Stamps for Quick Feedback Sometimes a simple symbol is all you need.
- Select the Stamp Tool.
- Choose a checkmark (✓) to approve an item or a cross (✗) to mark something as incorrect.
- Click on the document to place the stamp.
Why Annotate Digitally?
- It's Clean: No more messy handwriting. Digital annotations are clear and easy to read.
- It's Non-Destructive: You're adding a layer on top of the PDF. The original content remains untouched.
- It's Collaborative: You can easily share your annotated PDF with others, who can then add their own comments.
The next time you need to review a document, open it in Docento.app, and use the text and stamp tools to make your notes quickly and easily.