How to Create a Fillable Document in Word

Creating fillable documents in Word is a great way to streamline data collection. However, Microsoft Word can be clunky and require you to enable developer settings. If you're looking for a simpler, more private solution, Create Fillable PDF offers an easy and secure alternative.

With Create Fillable PDF, you can create fillable PDFs directly in your browser without the need for any downloads or sign-ups. Your documents never leave your device, ensuring 100% privacy. Let's explore how to create a fillable document – both with Word and with Create Fillable PDF!

Creating Fillable Documents with Create Fillable PDF

Create Fillable PDF simplifies the process of creating fillable PDFs. Here's how it works:

1. Simply navigate to Create Fillable PDF.
2. Upload your PDF document.
3. Use the intuitive toolbar to add input boxes, text, signatures, images, and password protection.
4. Download your fillable PDF – it's that easy!

Key Features of Create Fillable PDF:

• Add Input Boxes: Click the input box icon and drag it to the desired location.
• Type on PDF: Click the letter icon, click where you want to type, and adjust the font size and color as needed.
• Sign PDF: Use the scribble icon to draw your signature, then insert it into the document.
• Add Images: Click the image icon, select your image, and drag it to the desired spot.
• Password Protect: Click the lock icon, enter a password, and download your protected PDF. Remove password just as easily!

All these features are available for free, making Create Fillable PDF a cost-effective and user-friendly solution.

Creating Fillable Documents in Microsoft Word (Alternative Method)

While Create Fillable PDF offers a simpler solution, you can also create fillable documents directly in Microsoft Word, though it can be a bit more involved.

1. Enable the Developer Tab: Go to File > Options > Customize Ribbon. Check the "Developer" box in the right column and click OK.
2. Insert Content Controls: In the Developer tab, you'll find various controls such as text boxes, check boxes, and drop-down lists.
3. Add a Text Control: Click where you want to insert the text control. Select Developer > Rich Text Content Control or Plain Text Content Control.
4. Insert a Check Box: Click where you want to insert the check box control. Select Developer > Check Box Content Control.
5. Insert a Combo Box or a Drop-Down List: Go to Developer > Combo Box Content Control or Drop-Down List Content Control. Select the content control, and then select Properties. To create a list of choices, select Add under Drop-Down List Properties.
6. Set Properties for Content Controls: Select the content control that you want to change. Go to Developer > Properties. Change the properties that you want.
7. Protect the Form: To prevent others from altering the form's structure, go to Developer > Restrict Editing. Choose "Filling in forms" under Editing restrictions.
8. Save the Form: Save the document as a Word document (.docx).

Pros of using Word:

• Potentially corresponds with the data and format you want, such as text, dates, numbers, and more.
• Validation rules and instructions can be added to guide users and prevent errors.
• Form controls such as dropdown lists, checkboxes, and command buttons make the form more user-friendly.

Cons of using Word:

• The developer tab in Word must be enabled to access the form tools.
• There is potential for accidental edits, which can affect the form’s appearance, accuracy, and functionality.
• You may encounter compatibility issues if you share your form with users who have different versions of Word.

Why Choose Create Fillable PDF?

While creating fillable documents in Word is possible, Create Fillable PDF offers several advantages:

• Simplicity: No need to enable developer tabs or navigate complex menus.
• Privacy: Your documents never leave your device.
• Accessibility: Works directly in your browser – no downloads or sign-ups required.
• Cost-Effective: All features are available for free.

If you need to edit PDFs or add fillable fields frequently, explore related topics like how to add fillable fields to a PDF, how to create fillable forms in Word, or alternatives to DocuSign.

Conclusion

Both Microsoft Word and Create Fillable PDF allow you to create fillable documents. However, Create Fillable PDF offers a more streamlined, private, and accessible solution. For a hassle-free experience, try Create Fillable PDF today!