How-to guides

How To Draw, Highlight, and Leave Useful Notes on a PDF

Mark up a document clearly with freehand drawing, highlights, shapes, and concise review notes.

TiPDF EditorialJul 2, 20265 min read

PDF annotations are most useful when each mark has a clear purpose. Use highlights for passages, shapes for regions, and short notes for decisions or questions.

Pick the right markup

Avoid drawing over text when a highlight or callout would be easier to understand.

Keep feedback readable

Use a consistent color for each reviewer and keep comments specific enough that someone can act without a meeting.

Save a review copy

Keep annotations in a separate review copy until changes are approved, then archive the final document without temporary notes.