How do I make a PDF form accessible for everyone?

Start with an accessible source document, like a well-structured Word file. Ensure every form field has a clear label and a 'Tooltip' description for screen readers. Check that the tab order is logical so users can navigate the form easily. Keep fonts simple (Arial/Times) and at least 11pt size. Run the Accessibility Checker in Acrobat before sharing the form.

If I want people using Adobe Reader to save their filled-out PDF forms, what do I need to do?

After creating your form in Acrobat, go to 'File' in the menu. Select 'Save as Other'. Choose 'Reader Extended PDF'. Click on 'Enable More Tools' to allow Reader users to save their forms.

What is the difference between adding a text box and a list box in a PDF form?

Feature Purpose User Input. Text Box Allows users to type in free-form text, like a name or address. Users type directly into the box. List Box Presents a list of choices from which the user can select one or more options. Users click to select from a predefined list.

Present Offer Clearly in Adobe Acrobat — How-to & AI prompts

AI prompts

2 ways to ask · copy any one

AExecute — “help me do it”Inspect the trade-in item, note condition and missing accessories, compare it to our trade-in…+

Inspect the trade-in item, note condition and missing accessories, compare it to our trade-in guidelines, and give the customer a clear estimated value so they can decide about upgrading.

when the reply comes backPush once: ask it to sharpen the weakest part, and to say what it assumed.

BImprove — “do it better”Evaluate the trade-in by photographing key wear points, compare to the two most recent trade-in…+

Evaluate the trade-in by photographing key wear points, compare to the two most recent trade-in examples, list deductions with brief reasons, and present the final offer plus one alternative (repair or refurb channel) so the customer trusts the quote.

when the reply comes backPush once: ask it to sharpen the weakest part, and to say what it assumed.

How to do it

the tool · the steps · what to avoid

1
Open Adobe Acrobat Pro on your computer.
2
Select the Tools tab.
3
Find and select Prepare Form under Forms.
4
Choose an existing file to use as your form, or select the option to create a new one.
Best practiceIf your form is not already a PDF, convert it to PDF before starting this process.
5
Click Start to let Acrobat detect form fields automatically, or manually add fields as needed.
Best practiceLetting Acrobat auto-detect fields can save time, but always review and adjust the detected fields for accuracy.
6
Use the toolbar to add, move, or delete form fields such as text boxes, checkboxes, and drop-down lists.
7
Double-click any form field to edit its properties, such as name, tooltip, and appearance.
8
When finished, use File > Save to save your fillable PDF form.

In the appWith the API

You can quickly test your form by switching to Preview mode in the Prepare Form tool to see how users will fill it out.

This runs in the Acrobat app - there is no separate API for this task.

Glossary

words on this page

Form fieldA place in the PDF where someone can type, pick, or check something.ExampleClick on the form field labeled 'Name' to type in your full name.

TooltipA small message that appears when you point to something, helping people understand what a form field is for.ExampleHovering over the 'Submit' button reveals a tooltip saying 'Click to send your completed form'.

The real tasks

the one, listed here

Estimate a customer’s trade-in value so they can decide whether to upgrade now.

FAQ

about this task

Start with an accessible source document, like a well-structured Word file.
Ensure every form field has a clear label and a 'Tooltip' description for screen readers.
Check that the tab order is logical so users can navigate the form easily.
Keep fonts simple (Arial/Times) and at least 11pt size.
Run the Accessibility Checker in Acrobat before sharing the form.

You should avoid Word's form tools because they do not create accessible PDF fields. When you convert a Word document with its own form tools, the fields often don't work correctly or are not recognized by accessibility software in the final PDF.

A 'Tooltip' is a short description for a form field that appears when a user hovers over it. It matters because it provides important information for screen readers, helping users with visual impairments understand what each field is for. This makes your form much more accessible and user-friendly for everyone.

After creating your form in Acrobat, go to 'File' in the menu.
Select 'Save as Other'.
Choose 'Reader Extended PDF'.
Click on 'Enable More Tools' to allow Reader users to save their forms.

Feature	Purpose	User Input
Text Box	Allows users to type in free-form text, like a name or address.	Users type directly into the box.
List Box	Presents a list of choices from which the user can select one or more options.	Users click to select from a predefined list.

Present Offer Clearly

When to use it

AI prompts

How to do it

Glossary

The real tasks

Who does this

FAQ

Sources

Adobe help

Video

Other guides