Free Online PDF Annotator

Add comments, highlights, shapes, and freehand drawings to your documents. Our online tool makes it easy to review and provide feedback on any PDF.

Pro tip: Use different highlight colors for different types of feedback to keep your comments organized and easy to understand.
Processed
+175,000 files
Rating
4.7/5 (95+)

Online PDF Annotator — Tool

Upload your PDF, then use the toolbar to highlight text, add comments, or draw shapes.

Your files are always private. The entire process runs securely in your browser.

How to Annotate a PDF — Step by Step

Markup your document in four simple steps.

  1. Upload Your PDF File — Drag and drop your document or select it from your computer to load it into the annotator.
  2. Choose an Annotation Tool — Select a tool from the toolbar, such as "Highlight," "Comment," "Draw," or "Add Shape."
  3. Apply Your Annotations — Click and drag on the PDF to apply highlights, draw shapes, or add your notes exactly where you want them.
  4. Save and Download — Once you're finished, click the "Save" button to apply your changes and download the newly annotated PDF.

Annotation vs. Editing

**Annotation** adds a new layer of content (like comments or highlights) on top of your document without changing the original text. **Editing** modifies the core content of the document itself. For reviewing and providing feedback safely, annotation is the best choice.

Why Use Our Free PDF Annotator?

This tool is perfect for study, work, or any document review process.

Highlight Text

Emphasize key passages, data points, or important sections with an easy-to-use highlighting tool.

Add Comments & Notes

Add sticky notes with your feedback, questions, or reminders anywhere on the document.

Draw Shapes & Freehand

Draw attention to specific areas by adding shapes like circles and rectangles, or use the freehand tool.

Collaborate Digitally

Review and mark up documents with colleagues or classmates without ever needing to print a single page.

Frequently Asked Questions

Ready to mark up your document?

Open the annotator, upload your file, and start adding your feedback. It’s the easiest way to highlight, comment, and draw on any PDF.

Start Annotating Your PDF