Import PDFs and Make Marks on Your iPad: A Comprehensive Guide

Master the art of importing PDF files and making annotations directly on your iPad with these step-by-step instructions. Learn about popular iOS apps for efficiently handling PDF documents on the go.

Importing a PDF File to Your iPad

Whether you need to share, store, or edit PDF files on your iPad, there are several methods to ensure easy access and manipulation of those documents.

Email or Cloud Storage Methods

1. Email: If the PDF is attached to an email, simply open the email, find the PDF attachment, and tap the share button. You can then select an application to open it, such as Cloud Storage.

2. Cloud Storage: Popular cloud services like Dropbox, Google Drive, or iCloud Drive offer seamless integration. Access the app, locate the PDF file, and use the share icon to open it in another app.

AirDrop Method

3. AirDrop: For files on another Apple device, use AirDrop. Both devices need to have AirDrop enabled. Share the PDF from the sender's device to your iPad.

iTunes or Finder Method

4. Using iTunes or Finder: Connect your iPad to your computer, open iTunes or Finder (on macOS Catalina and later), and select your device. Navigate to the Files tab to download and import the PDF.

Making Notes and Marks on the PDF File

The following apps are popular for making marks and notes on your PDFs:

Apple Books

1. Apple Books: Open the PDF in Apple Books. Tap on the PDF to access the toolbar. Utilize the markup tools available, such as a pen, highlighter, or text box, to annotate the document.

Notes App

2. Notes App: Import the PDF into the Notes app by creating a new note, tapping the camera icon, and selecting the PDF to import it.

Third-Party Apps

3. Notability: Import the PDF into Notability and utilize the app's features for writing, highlighting, and adding audio notes.

GoodNotes: Similar to Notability, this app allows you to import and use various tools to annotate the document.

PDF Expert: This app offers robust features, including text highlighting, commenting, and drawing, making it a versatile tool for all your PDF annotation needs.

Final Tips

To ensure the best experience:

Update to the latest version of iOS. Select an app with the most useful markup tools. Familiarize yourself with the tools available in the app you choose for annotating, as different apps have different features.

With these methods, you can easily import and annotate PDF files on your iPad, making it a versatile tool for both work and personal use.

The Top 3 iOS PDF Editors in 2023

Here are the top three PDF editor apps for iOS in 2023, ensuring you have the best tools for editing and annotating PDFs:

PDFelement for iOS

This powerful app allows for rapid and comprehensive PDF operations. You can quickly import any PDF file, and use its markup tools to add notes, marks, and other elements to your documents.

Adobe PDF

Adobe's PDF app offers a wide range of editing and annotation features, making it a reliable choice for professionals.

PDF Expert

PDF Expert is known for its advanced annotation features, including text highlighting, commenting, and drawing, providing you with a comprehensive solution for PDF management.

Discover More about PDF Editor Apps

To learn more about these and other popular PDF editor apps for iOS, we recommend watching the following video tutorial:

In this tutorial, you'll learn about common PDF editing and annotation operations using PDFelement for iOS, Adobe PDF, and PDF Expert.