Other PDF Issues

How to Scroll a PDF While Using a Stylus in Annotation Mode

Bushra Parveen Oct 19, 2026 869 views

Question details

The user needs to navigate and scroll through a PDF document while actively using a stylus or pencil tool for annotations.

How to Scroll a PDF While Using a Stylus in Annotation Mode

Product: PDF Editor
Device & OS: not provided
Scenario: Reading and marking up a PDF document using a stylus, Apple Pencil, or touch input in a commenting mode.
Observed behavior: Using one finger to scroll while the pencil tool is active results in drawing on the document instead of moving the page, because single-touch input is interpreted as handwriting.

Before you start

Ensure your stylus is properly connected to your device and verify that palm rejection is supported by your tablet's operating system to prevent accidental marks.

Solution 1Recommended

Use Two-Finger Scrolling

The most efficient way to scroll without disabling the stylus tool is to use multi-touch gestures.

PDF applications are designed to prioritize writing over scrolling when an annotation tool is active. By using a two-finger gesture, you bypass the writing input and command the application to navigate the document.

Keep the pencil tool active

Do not deselect the annotation or pencil tool on your toolbar. Keep it active so you can immediately resume your handwriting.

Place two fingers on the screen

Instead of using one finger, gently place two fingers anywhere on the screen that is free of active interactive elements.

Swipe to scroll

Swipe up, down, left, or right with both fingers simultaneously to navigate through the PDF pages without leaving stray marks.

Design Intent: Most PDF applications interpret one-finger touch as drawing when a pen tool is selected. Two-finger scrolling is the universal gesture to bypass this and navigate.

Solution 2

Deselect the Pencil Tool

Briefly disable the annotation tool if you prefer using standard single-finger scrolling to navigate your document.

Seamless PDF Annotation

Edit and Annotate PDFs Smoothly with WPS Office

WPS Office provides a highly optimized PDF reader that perfectly handles stylus inputs, palm rejection, and smooth page navigation, allowing you to annotate without frustrating interruptions.

1. Open the PDF in WPS Office: Launch WPS Office on your device and open your target PDF document.
2. Enter Annotation Mode: Tap on the 'Annotate' or 'Edit' tab and select your preferred pen tool to start writing with your stylus.
3. Navigate effortlessly: Simply use two fingers to swipe and scroll through the pages without having to toggle the pen tool off.

Smart stylus recognition and smooth two-finger scrolling supportFull compatibility with standard Microsoft Office and Adobe PDF formatsRich set of free annotation tools including highlighters, pens, and shapesLightweight application that runs seamlessly across tablets, smartphones, and PCs

microsoft office alternative - wps office

Frequently Asked Questions

Why does my finger draw a line instead of scrolling the page?

When an annotation tool like a pen or highlighter is active, the application assumes all single-touch inputs are meant for drawing or writing. This is a standard design choice to ensure uninterrupted handwriting and to prevent accidental scrolling while writing.

Can I use palm rejection while annotating a PDF?

Yes, most modern PDF editors and touch devices support palm rejection. This technology allows you to rest your hand on the screen while using a compatible active stylus, preventing accidental marks or page jumps.

Is there a setting to lock scrolling to one direction?

Depending on your specific PDF reader, you can usually lock scrolling to vertical or horizontal modes in the View or Page Settings menu. This makes two-finger scrolling much more stable and prevents the document from sliding diagonally.

PDF Troubleshooting