Yes, you can do this — and it’s easier than you think.
We’ve all been there.
You get an email from your doctor’s office or insurance company with a form attached. It says:
“Please fill out the attached PDF and return it.”
You open it and think:
“Am I supposed to print this? Fill it out with a pen? Scan it? I don’t even have a printer!”
Don’t worry. You can fill out that PDF right on your computer, tablet, or phone — and send it back without printing a thing. Here’s how.
What You’ll Need
- A PDF file (usually sent by email or downloaded from a website)
- One of these devices:
- A Windows PC
- A Mac
- An iPhone/iPad
- An Android phone/tablet
- A free app (we’ll show you which one)
On a Computer (Windows or Mac)
Option 1: Use Adobe Acrobat Reader (Free & Easy)
- Download and install Adobe Acrobat Reader
- Open your PDF in Acrobat
2. Click into any line to start typing
3. You can select items from a drop down menu.
4. You can even add checkmarks or your signature
✅ When you’re done, click File > Save As and rename it (e.g., filled-form.pdf)
Option 2: Use Your Browser (Quick & Simple)
- If you double-click the PDF and it opens in your web browser (like Edge or Chrome), you can sometimes fill it in right there — try clicking into the boxes.
- Some browsers let you type and print, but not save your changes, so be careful.
On a Phone or Tablet
iPhone or iPad
- Open the PDF in the Mail app or Files app
- Tap the Share icon (a box with an arrow)
- Choose “Markup” or “Fill & Sign”
- Tap the lines to type or use the pen tool to write
- Tap Done, then Save File To or Reply with Attachment
Android Phone or Tablet
- Download the free app Adobe Fill & Sign or Adobe Acrobat Reader from Google Play
- Open the PDF in the app
- Tap into fields to type, or use the pen tool for writing
- Tap the share icon to Save or Email
Want to Add Your Signature?
Most of these apps let you draw your signature with your finger or mouse. You only need to do it once — the app will save it for next time.
How to Send It Back
Once you’ve filled out and saved the PDF:
- Open your email
- Click Reply (or start a new message)
- Click the paperclip icon to attach your filled-in PDF
- Add a short note if needed (e.g., “Here’s my completed form!”)
- Hit Send
Done. No printer, no scanner, no problem.
You Did It!
Filling out forms online used to be a hassle, but now you can do it with just a few taps.
Stick with Work the Thing and you’ll keep learning how to make your tech life a whole lot smoother.
If you need it, download a printable copy of these instructions here: