How to Mark Up PDFs on iPad

Learn to annotate, sign, and edit PDFs directly on your iPad using the system-wide Markup tools. No extra software required.

1. Access the Markup toolbar. Open your PDF in Files, Mail, or any document-compatible application. Tap the Markup icon, which appears as a pen nib inside a circle, located in the top navigation bar to activate the annotation suite.
2. Select your writing tools. Choose a tool from the floating toolbar: Pencil, Marker, Pen, or Eraser. Tap your selected tool a second time to adjust its stroke thickness and opacity settings via the slider.
3. Add shapes and text. Tap the plus (+) button to reveal the objects menu. Select Text to create a text box, or choose a shape like a square, circle, or arrow to highlight specific areas of the PDF.
4. Insert a digital signature. Within the plus (+) menu, tap Signature. Select an existing saved signature or tap Add or Remove Signature to create a new one using your finger or Apple Pencil.
5. Finalize your document. Once finished, tap Done in the upper-left corner of the screen. The system will save your annotations directly into the existing PDF file structure.