How Do You Create a Fillable Form in Word?

Creating fillable forms is a great way to gather information efficiently. While Microsoft Word offers some functionality for this, it can be cumbersome and have limitations. If you're looking for a simpler, more private, and completely free solution, Create Fillable PDF is the answer! With Create Fillable PDF, your documents stay secure on your device, and you don't need to sign up or download anything.

Why Use Create Fillable PDF Instead of Word?

How to Create a Fillable Form with Create Fillable PDF

Our tool is conveniently located at the top of this page. Here’s how to use it:

  1. Add Input Boxes: Click the input box icon and drag it to where you want on your PDF. Adjust the size and position as needed.
  2. Add Text: Click the letter icon and then click where you want to type on the PDF. Change the font size and color to match your document.
  3. Sign Your PDF: Click the scribble icon to draw your signature. Click "Insert" and then position it where you want it.
  4. Add Images: Click the image icon and upload an image to the PDF. Drag and drop the picture wherever needed.
  5. Password Protect: Click the lock icon, enter your desired password, and click "Apply." Your PDF will be password-protected upon download. You can remove the password at any time by clicking the lock icon again.

Creating Fillable Forms in Word (Alternative Method)

If you still prefer to use Word, here's how you can create a fillable form:

  1. Enable the Developer Tab: Go to File > Options > Customize Ribbon. Check the "Developer" box in the right column and click OK.
  2. Insert Controls: Go to the Developer tab. Here you'll find various controls like text boxes, check boxes, and drop-down lists.
  3. Add Text Control: Add a "Rich Text Content Control" or "Plain Text Content Control" for fillable text fields.
  4. Insert Checkboxes: Select the "Check Box Content Control" to add a checkbox.
  5. Create Drop-Down Lists: Choose "Combo Box Content Control" or "Drop-Down List Content Control" to let users select from options.
  6. Set Properties: Select a control and click "Properties" to customize its settings, like default text or dropdown list options.
  7. Protect the Form: To prevent others from changing the form's structure, go to Developer > Restrict Editing and enforce protection.

Word vs. Create Fillable PDF: A Comparison

Feature Microsoft Word Create Fillable PDF
Ease of Use Moderate (Requires enabling Developer tab) Very Easy (Drag-and-drop interface)
Cost Requires a Microsoft Word license 100% Free
Privacy Documents may be processed on Microsoft servers Documents remain on your device

Other Options

While Word and Create Fillable PDF are great tools for creating fillable forms, there are other ways to create fillable PDFs. Some alternatives are DocuSign and Adobe Acrobat.

Conclusion

While learning how do you create a fillable form in word is achievable, Create Fillable PDF offers a simpler, more private, and free alternative. Give it a try and experience the difference!