Creating a fillable PDF in Google Docs is a straightforward process that involves opening a new document, inserting form fields, and then downloading the document as a PDF form. This allows you to create forms that can be filled out electronically, such as surveys, applications, and registration forms. In just a few steps, you can have a professional-looking form ready to go.
Step by Step Tutorial on How to Create Fillable PDF in Google Docs
Before we dive into the steps, it’s important to note that creating a fillable PDF in Google Docs will require you to use the drawing tool to add text boxes. Once you have your text boxes in place, you’ll be able to download the document as a PDF and those boxes will be fillable.
Step 1: Open a new Google Doc
Open a new document in Google Docs to start creating your form.
When you open Google Docs, make sure you’re logged into your Google account. Then, click on the "+" sign to create a new document. This will be the base of your fillable PDF form.
Step 2: Insert a drawing
Go to "Insert" then "Drawing" and select "+ New" to add a drawing to your document.
In the drawing tool, you’ll be able to add text boxes, which will become the fillable fields in your PDF form. You can resize the text boxes and move them around to fit the layout of your form.
Step 3: Add text boxes
Use the text box tool in the drawing feature to add fillable fields to your form.
You can label each text box to indicate what information is required (e.g., "Name," "Email," "Date"). Make sure the text boxes are big enough for someone to type their information into.
Step 4: Save and close the drawing
Once you’ve added all your text boxes, click "Save and Close" to add the drawing to your document.
The drawing, which includes your text boxes, will now be part of your Google Doc. You can continue to add content to your document or adjust the placement of your drawing as needed.
Step 5: Download as PDF
Finally, go to "File," then "Download," and select "PDF Document (.pdf)" to download your document as a fillable PDF form.
Once you’ve downloaded the document, you can test out the fillable fields by opening the PDF and clicking into the text boxes. You should be able to type into each field and save the document with the entered information.
After completing these steps, you will have a fillable PDF that can be distributed electronically and filled out by anyone with a PDF reader. This is especially useful for collecting information in a structured and organized manner.
Tips for Creating Fillable PDF in Google Docs
- Ensure that your Google Docs page settings are set to ‘Letter’ or ‘A4’ depending on your region to avoid formatting issues.
- Use the zoom function in the drawing tool for more precise placement of text boxes.
- Customize the font style and size within your text boxes for a more professional look.
- Consider the tab order of your fillable fields to ensure a logical flow when tabbing through the form.
- Test your fillable PDF by filling it out yourself to check for any errors or formatting issues.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I add checkboxes or dropdown menus to my fillable PDF in Google Docs?
No, Google Docs’ drawing tool does not support checkboxes or dropdown menus. You can only create text fields.
Do I need any special software to create a fillable PDF in Google Docs?
No, you just need a Google account and access to Google Docs, which is a free online application.
Can I edit a fillable PDF after I’ve downloaded it?
You can edit the Google Docs version of the document, but editing the fillable fields in the PDF itself requires a PDF editor.
How do I share my fillable PDF with others?
You can share the PDF as you would any other file, through email, cloud storage, or by uploading it to a website.
Will the fillable fields work on all devices?
Fillable fields should work on any device with a PDF reader, but it’s always a good idea to test it on different devices to ensure compatibility.
Summary
- Open a new Google Doc.
- Insert a drawing and select "+ New".
- Add text boxes in the drawing tool.
- Save and close the drawing.
- Download the document as a PDF.
Conclusion
Creating a fillable PDF in Google Docs is a simple and efficient way to collect information or gather responses from a group of people. It’s a tool that’s accessible to anyone with a Google account and requires no additional software or advanced technical skills. Whether you are a teacher creating a test for students, a business owner designing a customer feedback form, or an event planner organizing a registration form, being able to create a fillable PDF can streamline the process and improve the user experience.
Remember to lay out your form logically, use clear labels, and test the form before distributing it widely. With the ability to collect and organize data electronically, you can save time, reduce errors, and create a more professional impression. Give it a try and see how creating a fillable PDF in Google Docs can help you in your next project.
Matthew Burleigh has been writing tech content online for more than ten years. He enjoys writing about Google Docs in addition to many other applications and devices and has cumulatively covered Google’s word-processing application in hundreds of different articles.
He has been published on dozens of popular websites, and his works have accumulated millions of pageviews.
While focused primarily on tutorials and guides for popular electronics like the iPhone and iPad, as well as common applications like Microsoft Word, Powerpoint, and Excel, he covers topics across the entire technology spectrum.
You can read his bio here.