How to Print All Text from Scrollable PDF Form Fields
Question details
The user needs to print the entirety of the text entered into a multiline PDF form field, including text that extends beyond the fixed visible area.
- Product
- PDF Editors
- Device & OS
- not provided
- Scenario
- Preparing a completed interactive PDF form with extensive text answers for physical printing.
- Observed behavior
- By default, printing a PDF only captures the text currently visible within the fixed dimensions of the form field, cutting off any hidden content that requires scrolling.
Ensure you have the necessary permissions or the author password to edit the PDF document, as modifying form field properties requires an unlocked file.
Set the Form Field Font Size to Auto
Automatically scale the text size down so that more content fits entirely within the visible boundaries of the printed page.
The most effective way to ensure all text prints without being cut off is to change the font size property to 'Auto'. This forces the PDF reader to shrink the text as more content is typed, ensuring everything remains visible inside the box boundaries.
Keep in mind that for extremely long responses, the text may become too small to read comfortably. In such cases, modifying the field size is recommended.
Open your PDF editor and enter the form editing or prepare form mode.
Right-click the multiline text field that contains the scrollable text and select 'Properties' from the context menu.
Navigate to the 'Appearance' tab within the Properties window. Locate the 'Font Size' dropdown and change it from its fixed number to 'Auto'.
Close the properties dialog, save the document, and print your PDF. All text should now be scaled to fit the visible area.
Resize the Form Field or Add a Supplemental Page
Physically increase the dimensions of the text field or use an overflow page to accommodate extensive responses.
Manage and Print PDF Forms Effectively with WPS Office
WPS Office provides a robust set of PDF editing tools that allow you to seamlessly fill out, modify, and print interactive PDF forms. You can easily adjust field sizes and text properties to ensure no important information gets cut off during printing.
- 1. Open your PDF: Launch WPS Office and open your interactive PDF form.
- 2. Access Form Tools: Navigate to the 'Form' tab on the top ribbon to access the PDF form editing tools.
- 3. Edit Properties: Select the problematic text field, open its properties, and set the text size to Auto or drag the borders to resize the box.
- 4. Preview and Print: Click the 'Print' icon or press Ctrl+P, check the print preview to ensure all text is visible, and print the document.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does my printed PDF cut off text in form fields?
Scrollable form fields are designed specifically for on-screen viewing. When a PDF is sent to a printer, the printer only captures a snapshot of the currently visible area of the text box, leaving any scrolled-down or hidden content unprinted.
Can I remove the scrollbar from a PDF text box before printing?
Yes, if you have editing permissions. You can open the text field's properties, go to the 'Options' tab, and uncheck 'Scroll long text'. You will then need to increase the physical size of the box or set the font size to Auto so all text fits within the boundaries.
Is there a way to print just the form responses without the PDF background?
Yes. In the print dialog of most PDF readers, look for a 'Comments & Forms' or 'Print What' dropdown menu. Selecting 'Form fields only' will print just the data entered into the fields, omitting the background text and lines.
