PDF Editing Issues

How to Create and Fill PDF Forms on iPad with Apple Pencil

Olivia Miller Oct 19, 2026 869 views

Question details

The user wants to know how to create fillable PDF forms that can be seamlessly completed on an iPad using an Apple Pencil, either via text conversion or freehand drawing.

How to Create and Fill PDF Forms on iPad Using Apple Pencil

Product: PDF Editor
Device & OS: iPadOS
Scenario: Designing and filling out PDF documents on an iPad using Apple Pencil inputs.
Observed behavior: The user needs to understand whether to use interactive form fields for automatic handwriting-to-text conversion or leave blank spaces for manual freehand markup depending on the desired outcome.

Before you start

Ensure your iPad is updated to an iPadOS version that supports Apple Scribble, and verify that your Apple Pencil is paired and sufficiently charged before filling out forms.

Solution 1Recommended

Use Apple Scribble for Interactive PDF Fields

Best for standard PDF forms where user handwriting needs to be automatically converted into clean, typed text.

Apple's built-in Scribble technology allows you to handwrite directly into any standard interactive text field, automatically converting your strokes into typed text in real time.

Enable Scribble on iPad

Go to your iPad Settings, select 'Apple Pencil', and ensure the 'Scribble' toggle is turned on.

Open the PDF Form

Open your interactive PDF form using a compatible PDF reader or editor on your iPad.

Write in the Text Fields

Tap on any fillable text field to activate it, then use your Apple Pencil to write directly over the field. The handwritten text will instantly convert to typed text.

Use Apple Scribble for Interactive PDF Fields

Handwriting Conversion: If you make a mistake while writing, simply scratch out the word with your Apple Pencil to delete it.

Solution 2

Create Blank Spaces for Freehand Annotations

Ideal for custom forms where users need to draw, sign, or write freehand data without converting it to typed text.

Powerful PDF Editor for iPad

Easily Create and Fill PDF Forms with WPS Office

WPS Office offers comprehensive PDF editing tools optimized for iPadOS. You can effortlessly fill out interactive forms, add text, annotate with your Apple Pencil, and manage your documents all within a single app.

1. Install WPS Office: Download WPS Office from the App Store on your iPad and launch the application.
2. Open your PDF Form: Locate and open the PDF file you need to fill out from your local files or cloud storage.
3. Use Fill & Sign Tools: Tap on interactive fields to type or use Scribble, or select the 'Annotation' tab to use your Apple Pencil for freehand drawing.
4. Save and Export: Once the form is completed, tap 'Save' and easily share the filled document via email or cloud storage.

Seamlessly fill interactive PDF forms on your iPadFull support for Apple Pencil handwriting and freehand annotationsHighly compatible with Adobe PDF and Microsoft Office formatsLightweight, user-friendly, and free to use

microsoft office alternative - wps office

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I convert my freehand PDF annotations into text later?

No, if you use freehand annotation tools, the handwriting is saved as an image or drawing overlay. To have handwriting converted to text, you must use Apple's Scribble feature within a designated interactive text field while writing.

Why isn't Apple Scribble working in my PDF form?

Ensure that Apple Scribble is enabled in your iPad settings (Settings > Apple Pencil > Scribble). Additionally, verify that the PDF field you are trying to write in is properly formatted as an interactive text field, not just a blank line.

How do I add a signature to a PDF using an Apple Pencil?

Open the PDF, select the 'Fill & Sign' or 'Annotation' tool in your PDF editor, choose the signature option, and use your Apple Pencil to draw your signature directly onto the document.

Do I need a paid subscription to fill PDF forms on an iPad?

No, filling standard interactive PDF forms and using basic markup tools with an Apple Pencil is typically supported for free in applications like WPS Office.

PDF Troubleshooting