How to Create a Fillable PDF Form Without Adobe

Step-by-step: How to create a fillable PDF form without Adobe Acrobat

Creating a fillable PDF form without Adobe Acrobat is simple using Nitro PDF Pro, which allows users to overlay text fields, checkboxes, and interactive elements onto any existing document in minutes.

First, access the "Forms" ribbon in your PDF editor, then follow these steps to add your first text input field using Nitro PDF Pro:

1. Open the Document: Launch Nitro PDF Pro and open the file you wish to convert.
2. Access Forms Tools: Click the Forms tab located in the top toolbar.
3. Select Text Field: Click on the Text Field option.
4. Place the Field: Drag and drop your cursor to draw the text box where you want users to input data.
5. Customize Properties: Right-click the new field and select Properties to name the field or set formatting rules.

Pro Tip: Use the "Make Copies" option in the Properties tab to quickly duplicate fields for repetitive forms.

How to add dropdown menus to fillable PDF forms

Dropdown menus, also called "Combo Boxes," make PDF forms more interactive, user-friendly, and consistent by allowing users to select from a list of predefined options.

Here are the steps to add a Combo Box to a PDF form using Nitro PDF Pro:

1. Select Combo Box: Under the Forms tab, click Combo Box.
2. Place the Box: Drag and drop the cursor to size and place the element on your page.
3. Open Properties: Click on the new Combo Box, then click Properties in the ribbon.
4. Define Options: Navigate to the Options tab.

What are the benefits of fillable PDF forms?

Fillable PDF forms are more efficient than static PDFs because they allow organizations and individuals to collect data accurately, reduce paper use, and automate workflows. 

The table highlights the key benefits and common use cases for fillable PDFs.

How fillable PDF forms simplify data collection, improve data accuracy, and make sharing information easier

Interactive PDF forms are ideal for a wide range of documents that require structured input. Common documents that benefit from fillable PDF conversion include:

• HR and administration: Employee surveys, contractor timesheets, and expense reports streamline data collection and approvals.
• Sales and operations: Purchase orders, invoices, and receipts reduce manual data entry errors and speed up processing.
• Healthcare: New patient intake forms and medical history updates improve accuracy and keep patient data secure.
• Real estate: Rental applications and lease agreements enable faster submissions and easier record keeping.

Why Nitro PDF Pro is the best alternative to Adobe Acrobat for fillable PDFs

Nitro PDF Pro provides all the essential features needed to create, edit, and manage fillable PDFs at a lower cost than Adobe Acrobat. Its user-friendly interface, secure document handling, and fast performance make it an ideal solution for individuals and organizations looking for an efficient way to digitize forms.

Nitro supports interactive PDFs across industries, helping teams replace paper forms with digital alternatives.