A friend (a teacher) has a problem with PDF files.
Management sends her files in PDF format which she is supposed to edit
and fill with names and data and send back. I asked chatgpt and Word can directly edit PDF files, with some limitations. I don't have word (nor
she unless she pays it herlself), so I can't try myself. Management does
not supply the employees with software nor laptops. Some cheek.
The Libre Office method is open in LO Draw, select the text, and copy to
a new LO Writer document. But each line is separate, text doesn't flow.
I wonder if there is a better or easier method.
A friend (a teacher) has a problem with PDF files.
Management sends her files in PDF format which she is supposed to edit
and fill with names and data and send back. I asked chatgpt and Word can directly edit PDF files, with some limitations. I don't have word (nor
she unless she pays it herlself), so I can't try myself. Management does
not supply the employees with software nor laptops. Some cheek.
The Libre Office method is open in LO Draw, select the text, and copy to
a new LO Writer document. But each line is separate, text doesn't flow.
I wonder if there is a better or easier method.
On 2026/9/29 20:24:40, Carlos E.R. wrote:
A friend (a teacher) has a problem with PDF files.Sounds like finding a different employer would be good, but ...
Management sends her files in PDF format which she is supposed to edit
and fill with names and data and send back. I asked chatgpt and Word can
directly edit PDF files, with some limitations. I don't have word (nor
she unless she pays it herlself), so I can't try myself. Management does
not supply the employees with software nor laptops. Some cheek.
The Libre Office method is open in LO Draw, select the text, and copy to
a new LO Writer document. But each line is separate, text doesn't flow.
I wonder if there is a better or easier method.
What are these files - are they all different, or are they a table of
some sort, which she could generate and send back - if the format is not exactly as they sent, then they can either buy her some software or lump
it! As for creating tables, any word processor _should_ be able to - I
use Word 2003 - you don't need a spreadsheet unless you're actually
going to do sums (or some other operations) on the contents; but most
people see/think "table" and assume they have to use a spreadsheet, so
that is an option (just not IMO the best one).
Presumably "Management" are not _creating_ these files in PDF, but
converting them for (apparent!) ease of reading; can she find out what
they _are_ created in, and maybe get them in that, assuming she has
something that can open them?
I take it the "names and data" relate to her job as a teacher?
A friend (a teacher) has a problem with PDF files.
Management sends her files in PDF format which she is supposed to edit
and fill with names and data and send back. I asked chatgpt and Word can directly edit PDF files, with some limitations. I don't have word (nor
she unless she pays it herlself), so I can't try myself. Management does
not supply the employees with software nor laptops. Some cheek.
The Libre Office method is open in LO Draw, select the text, and copy to
a new LO Writer document. But each line is separate, text doesn't flow.
I wonder if there is a better or easier method.
*From:* "Carlos E.R." <robin_listas@es.invalid>
*Date:* Tue, 29 Sep 2026 21:24:40 +0200
A friend (a teacher) has a problem with PDF files.
Management sends her files in PDF format which she is supposed to
edit and fill with names and data and send back. I asked chatgpt
and Word can directly edit PDF files, with some limitations. I
don't have word (nor she unless she pays it herlself), so I can't
try myself. Management does not supply the employees with software
nor laptops. Some cheek.
The Libre Office method is open in LO Draw, select the text, and
copy to a new LO Writer document. But each line is separate, text
doesn't flow.
I wonder if there is a better or easier method.
--
Cheers, Carlos.
ES__, EU__;
A friend (a teacher) has a problem with PDF files.
Management sends her files in PDF format which she is supposed to edit
and fill with names and data and send back. I asked chatgpt and Word can directly edit PDF files, with some limitations. I don't have word (nor
she unless she pays it herlself), so I can't try myself. Management does
not supply the employees with software nor laptops. Some cheek.
The Libre Office method is open in LO Draw, select the text, and copy to
a new LO Writer document. But each line is separate, text doesn't flow.
I wonder if there is a better or easier method.
On 9/29/2026 3:24 PM, Carlos E.R. wrote:
A friend (a teacher) has a problem with PDF files.Convert back to Word, make the changes, and then back to PDF
Management sends her files in PDF format which she is supposed to edit
and fill with names and data and send back. I asked chatgpt and Word can
directly edit PDF files, with some limitations. I don't have word (nor
she unless she pays it herlself), so I can't try myself. Management does
not supply the employees with software nor laptops. Some cheek.
The Libre Office method is open in LO Draw, select the text, and copy to
a new LO Writer document. But each line is separate, text doesn't flow.
I wonder if there is a better or easier method.
On 09/29/2026 3:24 PM, Carlos E.R. wrote:
A friend (a teacher) has a problem with PDF files.
Management sends her files in PDF format which she is supposed to edit
and fill with names and data and send back. I asked chatgpt and Word can
directly edit PDF files, with some limitations. I don't have word (nor
she unless she pays it herlself), so I can't try myself. Management does
not supply the employees with software nor laptops. Some cheek.
The Libre Office method is open in LO Draw, select the text, and copy to
a new LO Writer document. But each line is separate, text doesn't flow.
I wonder if there is a better or easier method.
Were the PDF files created with edit-able fields?
My time editing PDF files is limited to receiving a file with edit-able fields or using Adobe subscription products.
- I have seen a few recommendations from SMB folks not having large budgets using Acrobat Online and also Sejda PDF Editor(online and
desktop app)..
A friend (a teacher) has a problem with PDF files.
Management sends her files in PDF format which she is supposed to edit
and fill with names and data and send back. I asked chatgpt and Word can directly edit PDF files, with some limitations. I don't have word (nor
she unless she pays it herlself), so I can't try myself. Management does
not supply the employees with software nor laptops. Some cheek.
The Libre Office method is open in LO Draw, select the text, and copy to
a new LO Writer document. But each line is separate, text doesn't flow.
I wonder if there is a better or easier method.
A friend (a teacher) has a problem with PDF files.
Management sends her files in PDF format which she is supposed to edit and fill with names and data and send back. I asked chatgpt and Word can directly edit PDF files, with some limitations. I don't have word (nor she unless she pays it herlself), so I can't try myself. Management does not supply the employees with software nor laptops. Some cheek.
The Libre Office method is open in LO Draw, select the text, and copy to a new LO Writer document. But each line is separate, text doesn't flow.
I wonder if there is a better or easier method.
On 2026/9/30 1:15:6, ....winston wrote:
On 09/29/2026 3:24 PM, Carlos E.R. wrote:Carlos - are you still reading this thread?
A friend (a teacher) has a problem with PDF files.
Management sends her files in PDF format which she is supposed to edit
and fill with names and data and send back. I asked chatgpt and Word can >>> directly edit PDF files, with some limitations. I don't have word (nor
she unless she pays it herlself), so I can't try myself. Management does >>> not supply the employees with software nor laptops. Some cheek.
The Libre Office method is open in LO Draw, select the text, and copy to >>> a new LO Writer document. But each line is separate, text doesn't flow.
I wonder if there is a better or easier method.
Were the PDF files created with edit-able fields?
My time editing PDF files is limited to receiving a file with edit-able
fields or using Adobe subscription products.
- I have seen a few recommendations from SMB folks not having large
budgets using Acrobat Online and also Sejda PDF Editor(online and
desktop app)..
We really need to know a bit more about these files, and the names and
data that has to be inserted into them. Are they a table or similar, or something else entirely? Are they all different, or similar?
On 2026/9/29 23:26:58, Zaidy036 wrote:
On 9/29/2026 3:24 PM, Carlos E.R. wrote:
A friend (a teacher) has a problem with PDF files.Convert back to Word, make the changes, and then back to PDF
Management sends her files in PDF format which she is supposed to edit
and fill with names and data and send back. I asked chatgpt and Word can >>> directly edit PDF files, with some limitations. I don't have word (nor
she unless she pays it herlself), so I can't try myself. Management does >>> not supply the employees with software nor laptops. Some cheek.
The Libre Office method is open in LO Draw, select the text, and copy to >>> a new LO Writer document. But each line is separate, text doesn't flow.
I wonder if there is a better or easier method.
"I don't have word (nor does she"
A friend (a teacher) has a problem with PDF files.
Management sends her files in PDF format which she is supposed to edit
and fill with names and data and send back. I asked chatgpt and Word can directly edit PDF files, with some limitations. I don't have word (nor
she unless she pays it herlself), so I can't try myself. Management does
not supply the employees with software nor laptops. Some cheek.
The Libre Office method is open in LO Draw, select the text, and copy to
a new LO Writer document. But each line is separate, text doesn't flow.
I wonder if there is a better or easier method.
Carlos E.R. <robin_listas@es.invalid> wrote:
A friend (a teacher) has a problem with PDF files.
Management sends her files in PDF format which she is supposed to edit
and fill with names and data and send back. I asked chatgpt and Word can
directly edit PDF files, with some limitations. I don't have word (nor
she unless she pays it herlself), so I can't try myself. Management does
not supply the employees with software nor laptops. Some cheek.
The Libre Office method is open in LO Draw, select the text, and copy to
a new LO Writer document. But each line is separate, text doesn't flow.
I wonder if there is a better or easier method.
Print -> edit by hand -> scan -> send
Maybe not easier nor better, but may send a message to management.
Management sends her files in PDF format which she is supposed to edit
and fill with names and data and send back. I asked chatgpt and Word can >directly edit PDF files, with some limitations. I don't have word (nor
she unless she pays it herlself),
On 9/29/26 12:24 PM, Carlos E.R. wrote:
A friend (a teacher) has a problem with PDF files.
Management sends her files in PDF format which she is supposed to edit
and fill with names and data and send back. I asked chatgpt and Word
can directly edit PDF files, with some limitations. I don't have word
(nor she unless she pays it herlself), so I can't try myself.
Management does not supply the employees with software nor laptops.
Some cheek.
The Libre Office method is open in LO Draw, select the text, and copy
to a new LO Writer document. But each line is separate, text doesn't
flow.
I wonder if there is a better or easier method.
Hi Carlos,
You've been busy!
PDFs are not really meant to be edited like a word processor.
But you can, a little.
I use Master PDF Editor. I even create math fields with it.
File --> Export --> As Word
Then LO can pick it up. It can also export as text and CSV.But it does not work on pictures. You can do OCR (optical
character recognition) on them to get text. But you may
have to retype everything.
There is also PDF Studio, which also has the option. Master
PDF Editor has RPM and Deb support and wonderful technical
support. They fix bugs I find all the time.
OnlyOffice works sort of okay on PDFs, but I would not
recommend installing it, as the rest of the suite is
so buggy it will bring tears to your eyes, especially
when it buggers up your ODTs.
-T
Management sends her files in PDF format which she is supposed to edit and fill with names and data and send back.
I must leave and travel about now, so will read the other replies later
or tomorrow. I see a lot of replies.
Sprinkle dust on your scanner beforehand so they can't easily OCR itEarlier I suggested filling in the forms using the Comments-Text
back in, just to emphasise their error ?
"Carlos E.R." <robin_listas@es.invalid> wrote:
A friend (a teacher) has a problem with PDF files.
Management sends her files in PDF format which she is supposed to edit
and fill with names and data and send back. I asked chatgpt and Word can
directly edit PDF files, with some limitations. I don't have word (nor
she unless she pays it herlself), so I can't try myself. Management does
not supply the employees with software nor laptops. Some cheek.
The Libre Office method is open in LO Draw, select the text, and copy to
a new LO Writer document. But each line is separate, text doesn't flow.
I wonder if there is a better or easier method.
They expect her to edit PDF files, but won't give her the tools to do
so. Whomever is giving her the PDF files hasn't a clue about creating editable PDFs; i.e., PDFs with forms with fields that can be filled in,
and can even use qualifiers or code to determine the correct type of
data to enter in the fields. From their ignorance in creating fixed
PDFs, or without forms, I suspect they are creating them using an
emulated printer, like Print presenting a "PDF" printer to where the
printout gets directed. They don't know how to do PDFs, and yet expect
her to know more than them yet not provide the tools to do so.
On 09/30/2026 8:58 AM, Andy Burns wrote:
Sprinkle dust on your scanner beforehand so they can't easily OCR itEarlier I suggested filling in the forms using the Comments-Text
back in, just to emphasise their error ?
function of the Adobe Reader, and they printing the form to a PDF printer.
Am I the only one that uses this method to fill out PDF documents?
I also use the same method to add citation information to documents.
The key thing to know is whether these PDF files are correctly createdAgreed, the Pdf files sent are not editable documents, thus requiring
as "forms". If they are, then you should be able to fill them in (not
the same as 'edit') in the free Acrobat reader, or in a browser (Edge
works well for PDFs). As pointed out elsewhere in the thread, simply
using a "print to PDF" pseudo-printer won't generate a form which can be filled in in this way.
You mention not having access to Word: if you create a Microsoft Account
that gets you an email address, 5GB of free OneDrive storage, and access
via a browser to Word, Excel, PowerPoint and other applications.
On 09/30/2026 8:58 AM, Andy Burns wrote:
Sprinkle dust on your scanner beforehand so they can't easily OCR itEarlier I suggested filling in the forms using the Comments-Text
back in, just to emphasise their error ?
function of the Adobe Reader, and they printing the form to a PDF
printer.
Am I the only one that uses this method to fill out PDF documents?
I also use the same method to add citation information to documents.
Chris wrote:
Print -> edit by hand -> scan -> send
Maybe not easier nor better, but may send a message to management.
Sprinkle dust on your scanner beforehand so they can't easily OCR it
back in, just to emphasise their error :-P
On 09/30/2026 8:58 AM, Andy Burns wrote:
Sprinkle dust on your scanner beforehand so they can't easily OCR it
back in, just to emphasise their error ?
Earlier I suggested filling in the forms using the Comments-Text
function of the Adobe Reader, and they printing the form to a PDF printer.
Am I the only one that uses this method to fill out PDF documents?
I also use the same method to add citation information to documents.
Andy Burns <usenet@andyburns.uk> wrote:
Chris wrote:
Print -> edit by hand -> scan -> send
Maybe not easier nor better, but may send a message to management.
Sprinkle dust on your scanner beforehand so they can't easily OCR it
back in, just to emphasise their error :-P
Misalign the sheet on the scanner. Skewed text is harder to OCR. And
scan in black-n-white mode at low resolution to make the scanned image
more grainy.
I suspect if they don't have PDF software to create editable PDFs, or
add fields for form data, that they probably don't have an OCR software, either.
Could be a small school where budgeting is very tight. Could
be this school, and its teachers, don't have scanners. But the teacher
has the .pdf file, so could use a slew of PDF viewers/editors that can annotate PDFs, and she send back the annotated PDF however she got it.
On 30/09/2026 14:30, knuttle wrote:
On 09/30/2026 8:58 AM, Andy Burns wrote:
Sprinkle dust on your scanner beforehand so they can't easily OCR itEarlier I suggested filling in the forms using the Comments-Text
back in, just to emphasise their error ?
function of the Adobe Reader, and they printing the form to a PDF
printer.
Am I the only one that uses this method to fill out PDF documents?
I also use the same method to add citation information to documents.
I created a PDF sample form using LibreOffice. Try filling it in usingWhen you save the PDF file file set to show comments the comments become
any of the apps you have. By 'filling it', I don't mean add comments. I actually mean enter the details as you would on a paper form, but using
the keyboard for a digital document. Download the file first in this case.
<https://mega.nz/file/XhhX3b7D#ATBdHlS--bF9-XabQPy54VfpQTTQMisyTjHxWK36VxQ>
The whole idea behind PDF files is that they should be 'portable',
meaning that users should be able to open and fill them in on any
device, including those running Windows, Linux, macOS, Android and iOS.
A friend (a teacher) has a problem with PDF files.
Management sends her files in PDF format which she is supposed to edit and fill with names and data and send back. I asked chatgpt and Word can directly edit PDF files, with some limitations. I don't have word (nor she unless she pays it herlself), so I can't try myself. Management does not supply the employees with software nor laptops. Some cheek.
The Libre Office method is open in LO Draw, select the text, and copy to a new LO Writer document. But each line is separate, text doesn't flow.
I wonder if there is a better or easier method.
Andy Burns <usenet@andyburns.uk> wrote:
Chris wrote:
Print -> edit by hand -> scan -> send
Maybe not easier nor better, but may send a message to management.
Sprinkle dust on your scanner beforehand so they can't easily OCR it
back in, just to emphasise their error :-P
Misalign the sheet on the scanner. Skewed text is harder to OCR. And
scan in black-n-white mode at low resolution to make the scanned image
more grainy.
I suspect if they don't have PDF software to create editable PDFs, or
add fields for form data, that they probably don't have an OCR software, either. Could be a small school where budgeting is very tight. Could
be this school, and its teachers, don't have scanners.
But the teacher
has the .pdf file, so could use a slew of PDF viewers/editors that can annotate PDFs, and she send back the annotated PDF however she got it.
The whole idea behind PDF files is that they should be 'portable',
meaning that users should be able to open and fill them in on any
device, including those running Windows, Linux, macOS, Android and iOS.
On 2026/9/30 18:17:32, PDF Files wrote:
[]
The whole idea behind PDF files is that they should be 'portable',I think originally "open and _read_ them".
meaning that users should be able to open and fill them in on any
device, including those running Windows, Linux, macOS, Android and iOS.
The fill-in option was a
later development.
On 2026/9/29 20:24:40, Carlos E.R. wrote:
A friend (a teacher) has a problem with PDF files.Sounds like finding a different employer would be good, but ...
Management sends her files in PDF format which she is supposed to edit
and fill with names and data and send back. I asked chatgpt and Word can
directly edit PDF files, with some limitations. I don't have word (nor
she unless she pays it herlself), so I can't try myself. Management does
not supply the employees with software nor laptops. Some cheek.
The Libre Office method is open in LO Draw, select the text, and copy to
a new LO Writer document. But each line is separate, text doesn't flow.
I wonder if there is a better or easier method.
What are these files - are they all different, or are they a table of
some sort, which she could generate and send back - if the format is not exactly as they sent, then they can either buy her some software or lump
it!
As for creating tables, any word processor _should_ be able to - I
use Word 2003 - you don't need a spreadsheet unless you're actually
going to do sums (or some other operations) on the contents; but most
people see/think "table" and assume they have to use a spreadsheet, so
that is an option (just not IMO the best one).
Presumably "Management" are not _creating_ these files in PDF, but
converting them for (apparent!) ease of reading; can she find out what
they _are_ created in, and maybe get them in that, assuming she has
something that can open them?
I take it the "names and data" relate to her job as a teacher?
On 2026/9/30 11:21:7, Carlos E.R. wrote:
[]
I must leave and travel about now, so will read the other replies laterCan we suspend discussion until Carlos gets back, as until we know
or tomorrow. I see a lot of replies.
rather more about these documents (what are they, forms, tables, etc;
what is the data that has to be added; _are_ these PDFs of the type that
has fillable fields; etc.) - which only he can tell us - further
discussion only adds heat, not light?
On 9/30/26 3:21 AM, Carlos E.R. wrote:
On 2026-09-29 21:49, T wrote:
On 9/29/26 12:24 PM, Carlos E.R. wrote:
A friend (a teacher) has a problem with PDF files.
Management sends her files in PDF format which she is supposed to
edit and fill with names and data and send back. I asked chatgpt and
Word can directly edit PDF files, with some limitations. I don't
have word (nor she unless she pays it herlself), so I can't try
myself. Management does not supply the employees with software nor
laptops. Some cheek.
The Libre Office method is open in LO Draw, select the text, and
copy to a new LO Writer document. But each line is separate, text
doesn't flow.
I wonder if there is a better or easier method.
Hi Carlos,
You've been busy!
PDFs are not really meant to be edited like a word processor.
But you can, a little.
I know. And she knows, yet she insists, because she actually has to
fill those documents.
I use Master PDF Editor. I even create math fields with it.
File --> Export --> As Word
Then LO can pick it up. It can also export as text and CSV.
But it does not work on pictures. You can do OCR (optical
character recognition) on them to get text. But you may
have to retype everything.
It is an idea. I read that it is freemium, and the test version adds a
watermark.
It is not too expensive.ÿÿ I pay for it every year.
There is also PDF Studio, which also has the option. Master
PDF Editor has RPM and Deb support and wonderful technical
support. They fix bugs I find all the time.
Non gratis, I read.
She can pay for something, but I hate she has to pay for something her
employer should provide.
Huh?ÿ That sound fishy.ÿ Did they even provide her with a computer?
They must think she does not need any software for those forms.
You need to take a look at them.
Yes, certainly her bosses must be creating the original documents in
something else, either MS Office or LO. I will find out when I get
hold of one such document. But they are not sending the teachers the
original documents, I can't understand why. How do they expect their
staff to fill them? I don't get the rationale.
Maybe the PDFs are actually forms? That would make sense.
OnlyOffice works sort of okay on PDFs, but I would not
recommend installing it, as the rest of the suite is
so buggy it will bring tears to your eyes, especially
when it buggers up your ODTs.
Ah, no.
-T
I must leave and travel about now, so will read the other replies
later or tomorrow. I see a lot of replies.
First thing when you get back, have her show you one of
these forms.ÿ I find customers seldom are able to describe
what actually is happening.
Good luck on your trip!
On 9/29/26 3:26 PM, Zaidy036 wrote:
On 9/29/2026 3:24 PM, Carlos E.R. wrote:
A friend (a teacher) has a problem with PDF files.Convert back to Word, make the changes, and then back to PDF
Management sends her files in PDF format which she is supposed to
edit and fill with names and data and send back. I asked chatgpt and
Word can directly edit PDF files, with some limitations. I don't have
word (nor she unless she pays it herlself), so I can't try myself.
Management does not supply the employees with software nor laptops.
Some cheek.
The Libre Office method is open in LO Draw, select the text, and copy
to a new LO Writer document. But each line is separate, text doesn't
flow.
I wonder if there is a better or easier method.
1+ÿ LO works too.
With Master PDF Editor, you can modify the text, but it won't
re-space the line. If it's a misspelling, it's great. If
you subtract text, you get a big empty space. You can
guess what happens if you add text. Yes, they run together.
On 9/29/26 5:27 PM, J. P. Gilliver wrote:
Convert back to Word, make the changes, and then back to PDF
"I don't have word (nor does she"
LibreOffice will read a M$O document.ÿ And LO
has a wonderful PDF export too.
Not seeing what the problem is here.
On 2026/9/30 1:15:6, ....winston wrote:
On 09/29/2026 3:24 PM, Carlos E.R. wrote:Carlos - are you still reading this thread?
A friend (a teacher) has a problem with PDF files.
Management sends her files in PDF format which she is supposed to edit
and fill with names and data and send back. I asked chatgpt and Word can >>> directly edit PDF files, with some limitations. I don't have word (nor
she unless she pays it herlself), so I can't try myself. Management does >>> not supply the employees with software nor laptops. Some cheek.
The Libre Office method is open in LO Draw, select the text, and copy to >>> a new LO Writer document. But each line is separate, text doesn't flow.
I wonder if there is a better or easier method.
Were the PDF files created with edit-able fields?
My time editing PDF files is limited to receiving a file with edit-able
fields or using Adobe subscription products.
- I have seen a few recommendations from SMB folks not having large
budgets using Acrobat Online and also Sejda PDF Editor(online and
desktop app)..
We really need to know a bit more about these files, and the names and
data that has to be inserted into them. Are they a table or similar, or something else entirely? Are they all different, or similar?
"Carlos E.R." <robin_listas@es.invalid> wrote:
A friend (a teacher) has a problem with PDF files.
Management sends her files in PDF format which she is supposed to edit
and fill with names and data and send back. I asked chatgpt and Word can
directly edit PDF files, with some limitations. I don't have word (nor
she unless she pays it herlself), so I can't try myself. Management does
not supply the employees with software nor laptops. Some cheek.
The Libre Office method is open in LO Draw, select the text, and copy to
a new LO Writer document. But each line is separate, text doesn't flow.
I wonder if there is a better or easier method.
They expect her to edit PDF files, but won't give her the tools to do
so. Whomever is giving her the PDF files hasn't a clue about creating editable PDFs; i.e., PDFs with forms with fields that can be filled in,
and can even use qualifiers or code to determine the correct type of
data to enter in the fields. From their ignorance in creating fixed
PDFs, or without forms, I suspect they are creating them using an
emulated printer, like Print presenting a "PDF" printer to where the
printout gets directed. They don't know how to do PDFs, and yet expect
her to know more than them yet not provide the tools to do so.
In a tit-for-tat retaliation, have her print the PDFs to paper, have her
edit the paper copy, and send them the paper copy. Let those idiots
figure out how to transcribe (scan) her paper copy to a PDF copy.
Knowing the higher-ups are likely not just idiots, but also control
freaks demanding whatever they want, have her use a PDF viewer that can
also annotate the PDF. The annotations are saved in the PDF as a
separate layer. I use PDF-Xchange Editor (free version) to both view
and annotate in different fonts, size, and colors, but annotations are a clumsy way to update a PDF file. The annotations get flattened when the
PDF is saved, so they become permanent.
In PDFs, the fields in a form can be scripted to qualify what content
can be entered in the fields. If scripting is disabled in a PDF viewer/editor (as I do in mine), the fields will be presented, but the
user cannot enter data into those fields. At that point, annotation can place content atop the input fields, but it really hasn't been added as
form data. It is another layer overlapping the fields, and gets
flattened on saving. Once saved, those annotations can no longer be separately selected, like to move them around, change font or color.
The annotations become fixed just like all the other text in the PDF.
There are other PDF viewers/editors that can do annotations. "Editor"
for free PDF tools means adding annotations. They don't permit the
existing content. So, her higher-ups doling out PDFs should either
provide areas in them where data can be added, like placing an
annotation within a text box, or she'll have to add annotations in the margins, white space, or atop existing text or images.
Her higher-ups will have to deal with her annotations as fixed content
in the returned PDFs.
Her employers do not provide her with Word. So just how is she to
converse with anyone there without a document editor shared amongst the employees? They send document in text-only format to use Notepad?
There are online resources that claim to let you edit PDFs; for example:
https://www.adobe.com/acrobat/online/pdf-editor.html https://www.canva.com/pdf-editor/
and others (https://www.startpage.com/sp/search?query=edit+pdf).
I have not used any of those. I just add annotations. Online editors
are unwise if the content of the PDF is sensitive (banking, financial
company docs, personal bank data, etc). How was the PDF delivered to
her? Via e-mail? If not encrypted then the higher-ups are not
interested in security, so using online editors should be okay.
On Tue, 9/29/2026 3:24 PM, Carlos E.R. wrote:
A friend (a teacher) has a problem with PDF files.
Management sends her files in PDF format which she is supposed to edit and fill with names and data and send back. I asked chatgpt and Word can directly edit PDF files, with some limitations. I don't have word (nor she unless she pays it herlself), so I can't try myself. Management does not supply the employees with software nor laptops. Some cheek.
The Libre Office method is open in LO Draw, select the text, and copy to a new LO Writer document. But each line is separate, text doesn't flow.
I wonder if there is a better or easier method.
Apparently Firefox browser can fill a form.pdf .
Adobe Acrobat Reader DC, "in theory", can fill out a
form, but it is a bloated whale of a thing with brokenness
at the moment. They're too busy breaking it, to be interested
in their users. I no longer have that installed on C: here,
I gave up on it. Too much evil.
Via version numbers, a recently created form.pdf would
not be able to be opened by things like Acrobat Reader 9,
so you cannot rely on older versions of a thing, to get
around the Adobe Reader DC mess.
I can't even find a program to "classify" the files. The
Linux file command, treats them all the same, by just
sniffing the PDF string at the top of the file, rather than
looking inside the file. This means I can't scan my disk for
samples of form.pdf type files.
Some documents need the Javascript interpreter in Acrobat Reader
to be turned on. This applies to things like government forms
that have a "sanitizing" feature for actively checking what
you enter in a box, and complaining about the format you enter.
And it goes downhill from there. Lots of tools only handle
plain PDFs and not the other types.
Paul
On 09/30/2026 5:48 AM, Philip Herlihy wrote:
Agreed, the Pdf files sent are not editable documents, thus requiring
The key thing to know is whether these PDF files are correctly created
as "forms".ÿ If they are, then you should be able to fill them in (not
the same as 'edit') in the free Acrobat reader, or in a browser (Edge
works well for PDFs).ÿ As pointed out elsewhere in the thread, simply
using a "print to PDF" pseudo-printer won't generate a form which can be
filled in in this way.
the recipient to jump through more than a few hoops to manage editing.
You mention not having access to Word: if you create a Microsoft AccountYes, that is an option..but if this is the same person that Carlos previously posted(setting up a device for her, where she previously
that gets you an email address, 5GB of free OneDrive storage, and access
via a browser to Word, Excel, PowerPoint and other applications.
obtained office from 'a friend's husband who supplied her an edition provided to him from his employer' and that option for Office was/is no longer available), Carlos also stated that same person getting or using
an Microsoft Account was a 'blocker'.
Maybe Carlos, will be able to clarify
ÿ- same person
ÿ- willing or not willing to obtain and use a Microsoft account
ÿ- willing or not willing to obtain a Office version(which requires an
MSA for activation and use)
"Carlos E.R." wrote:
Management sends her files in PDF format which she is supposed to edit
and fill with names and data and send back.
Actually editing the document, as opposed to filling-in embedded forms?
PDF was not designed for the former ...
On Tue, 9/29/2026 3:24 PM, Carlos E.R. wrote:
A friend (a teacher) has a problem with PDF files.
Management sends her files in PDF format which she is supposed to edit and fill with names and data and send back. I asked chatgpt and Word can directly edit PDF files, with some limitations. I don't have word (nor she unless she pays it herlself), so I can't try myself. Management does not supply the employees with software nor laptops. Some cheek.
The Libre Office method is open in LO Draw, select the text, and copy to a new LO Writer document. But each line is separate, text doesn't flow.
I wonder if there is a better or easier method.
This post, is just for attempting to detect what kind of content
is in the file in question. Some people are questioning whether
the PDF is a "plain read-only PDF" which comes out of "Print To PDF"
efforts. Or whether it is an AcroForm, and is actually designed
to be filled out in a web browser.
On 2026-09-30 22:08, Paul wrote:
On Tue, 9/29/2026 3:24 PM, Carlos E.R. wrote:
A friend (a teacher) has a problem with PDF files.
Management sends her files in PDF format which she is supposed to edit and fill with names and data and send back. I asked chatgpt and Word can directly edit PDF files, with some limitations. I don't have word (nor she unless she pays it herlself), so I can't try myself. Management does not supply the employees with software nor laptops. Some cheek.
The Libre Office method is open in LO Draw, select the text, and copy to a new LO Writer document. But each line is separate, text doesn't flow.
I wonder if there is a better or easier method.
This post, is just for attempting to detect what kind of content
is in the file in question. Some people are questioning whether
the PDF is a "plain read-only PDF" which comes out of "Print To PDF"
efforts. Or whether it is an AcroForm, and is actually designed
to be filled out in a web browser.
I'll find out in about a week.
Apparently Firefox browser can fill a form.pdf .8< snip >8
On 2026-09-30 21:07, T wrote:[]
[]Huh?ÿ That sound fishy.ÿ Did they even provide her with a computer?
They must think she does not need any software for those forms.
You need to take a look at them.
I need to see them, absolutely.
They have a computer in the teachers room, with LO, I found out.
I must leave and travel about now, so will read the other replies
later or tomorrow. I see a lot of replies.
First thing when you get back, have her show you one of
these forms.ÿ I find customers seldom are able to describe
what actually is happening.
Absolutely
Good luck on your trip!
You see that I can also see posts during my trip :-)
On 2026/10/1 11:46:46, Carlos E. R. wrote:
On 2026-09-30 21:07, T wrote:[]
[]Huh?ÿ That sound fishy.ÿ Did they even provide her with a computer?
They must think she does not need any software for those forms.
You need to take a look at them.
I need to see them, absolutely.
They have a computer in the teachers room, with LO, I found out.
Any chance she could forward you some samples so you can take them withI must leave and travel about now, so will read the other replies
later or tomorrow. I see a lot of replies.
First thing when you get back, have her show you one of
these forms.ÿ I find customers seldom are able to describe
what actually is happening.
Absolutely
Good luck on your trip!
You see that I can also see posts during my trip :-)
you on the trip? (Have a good one.)
On 2026-09-30 16:50, ....winston wrote:
On 09/30/2026 5:48 AM, Philip Herlihy wrote:
Agreed, the Pdf files sent are not editable documents, thus requiring
The key thing to know is whether these PDF files are correctly created
as "forms".ÿ If they are, then you should be able to fill them in (not
the same as 'edit') in the free Acrobat reader, or in a browser (Edge
works well for PDFs).ÿ As pointed out elsewhere in the thread, simply
using a "print to PDF" pseudo-printer won't generate a form which can be >>> filled in in this way.
the recipient to jump through more than a few hoops to manage editing.
Yes, that is an option..but if this is the same person that Carlos
You mention not having access to Word: if you create a Microsoft Account >>> that gets you an email address, 5GB of free OneDrive storage, and access >>> via a browser to Word, Excel, PowerPoint and other applications.
previously posted(setting up a device for her, where she previously
obtained office from 'a friend's husband who supplied her an edition
provided to him from his employer' and that option for Office was/is
no longer available), Carlos also stated that same person getting or
using an Microsoft Account was a 'blocker'.
Same person, yes. If a M$A is an absolute need, we will create one.
Maybe Carlos, will be able to clarify
ÿÿ- same person
ÿÿ- willing or not willing to obtain and use a Microsoft account
ÿÿ- willing or not willing to obtain a Office version(which requires
an MSA for activation and use)
On 2026-09-30 06:23, Paul wrote:[]
My feelings too. I keep Acrobat Reader 2020, but only for itsAdobe Acrobat Reader DC, "in theory", can fill out a
form, but it is a bloated whale of a thing with brokenness
at the moment. They're too busy breaking it, to be interested
in their users. I no longer have that installed on C: here,
I gave up on it. Too much evil.
Some documents need the Javascript interpreter in Acrobat Reader
to be turned on. This applies to things like government forms
that have a "sanitizing" feature for actively checking what
you enter in a box, and complaining about the format you enter.
Yes, i have seen those. I hope they are not using those.
And it goes downhill from there. Lots of tools only handle
plain PDFs and not the other types.
Paul
On Wed, 30 Sep 2026 00:23:55 -0400, Paul wrote:
Apparently Firefox browser can fill a form.pdf .8< snip >8
I was about to suggest this, but I wasn't sure.
endobj
endobj
endobjModern docs have embedded subset fonts (to disable "editing").
endobj
endobj
******************** Yet another hello.pdf **************************
On Thu, 10/1/2026 11:40 AM, s|b wrote:
On Wed, 30 Sep 2026 00:23:55 -0400, Paul wrote:
Apparently Firefox browser can fill a form.pdf .8< snip >8
I was about to suggest this, but I wasn't sure.
I tested it, on my sample Acroform document and
modern Firefox filled the boxes OK. I didn't test the whole
cycle though (save and reopen elsewhere).
Paul <nospam@needed.invalid> wrote:
On Thu, 10/1/2026 11:40 AM, s|b wrote:
On Wed, 30 Sep 2026 00:23:55 -0400, Paul wrote:
Apparently Firefox browser can fill a form.pdf .8< snip >8
I was about to suggest this, but I wasn't sure.
I tested it, on my sample Acroform document and
modern Firefox filled the boxes OK. I didn't test the whole
cycle though (save and reopen elsewhere).
For Carlos' teacher friend, it makes more sense to test in Edge, as
she's unlikely to have (a need for) an extra browser on her/their
system(s).
[...]
On Thu, 10/1/2026 7:13 AM, Carlos E. R. wrote:
On 2026-09-30 22:08, Paul wrote:
On Tue, 9/29/2026 3:24 PM, Carlos E.R. wrote:
A friend (a teacher) has a problem with PDF files.
Management sends her files in PDF format which she is supposed to edit and fill with names and data and send back. I asked chatgpt and Word can directly edit PDF files, with some limitations. I don't have word (nor she unless she pays it herlself), so I can't try myself. Management does not supply the employees with software nor laptops. Some cheek.
The Libre Office method is open in LO Draw, select the text, and copy to a new LO Writer document. But each line is separate, text doesn't flow.
I wonder if there is a better or easier method.
This post, is just for attempting to detect what kind of content
is in the file in question. Some people are questioning whether
the PDF is a "plain read-only PDF" which comes out of "Print To PDF"
efforts. Or whether it is an AcroForm, and is actually designed
to be filled out in a web browser.
I'll find out in about a week.
Your pdfinfo post, seems to show it is a plain PDF.
And, it seems rather large. At that size it could
have images in it.
On 2026/10/1 11:46:46, Carlos E. R. wrote:
On 2026-09-30 21:07, T wrote:[]
[]Huh?ÿ That sound fishy.ÿ Did they even provide her with a computer?
They must think she does not need any software for those forms.
You need to take a look at them.
I need to see them, absolutely.
They have a computer in the teachers room, with LO, I found out.
Any chance she could forward you some samples so you can take them withI must leave and travel about now, so will read the other replies
later or tomorrow. I see a lot of replies.
First thing when you get back, have her show you one of
these forms.ÿ I find customers seldom are able to describe
what actually is happening.
Absolutely
Good luck on your trip!
You see that I can also see posts during my trip :-)
you on the trip? (Have a good one.)
On 2026-10-01 20:21, Frank Slootweg wrote:
Paul <nospam@needed.invalid> wrote:
On Thu, 10/1/2026 11:40 AM, s|b wrote:
On Wed, 30 Sep 2026 00:23:55 -0400, Paul wrote:
Apparently Firefox browser can fill a form.pdf .8< snip >8
I was about to suggest this, but I wasn't sure.
I tested it, on my sample Acroform document and
modern Firefox filled the boxes OK. I didn't test the whole
cycle though (save and reopen elsewhere).
For Carlos' teacher friend, it makes more sense to test in Edge, as she's unlikely to have (a need for) an extra browser on her/their system(s).
[...]
Besides Edge, she has Chrome and Firefox.
I installed FFx because she complained about too many adverts in some
web pages. So FFx + Ublock origin.
I installed Chrome because that's the easiest when using Google for
Groups. She is most familiar with this one.
I don't think she uses Edge except by accident.
She says she is going to install Word, she is finding LO hard to get
used to. However, the only computer provided by her employer for the teachers in that school has LO, not Word.
On 10/1/26 3:46 AM, Carlos E. R. wrote:
It is not too expensive.ÿÿ I pay for it every year.
So it is a subscription?
The support is a subscription.ÿ If you do not subscribe
to the support, you get no help and no updates, but the
software continues to work and is not bricked.
An support renewals are half price of the original
purchase.
On 10/1/26 3:48 AM, Carlos E. R. wrote:
I'm trying to find a way without paying for software.
There are a lot of options for that out there.ÿ But first
you need to see what is actually happening.
Carlos E. R. <robin_listas@es.invalid> wrote:
On 2026-10-01 20:21, Frank Slootweg wrote:
Paul <nospam@needed.invalid> wrote:
On Thu, 10/1/2026 11:40 AM, s|b wrote:
On Wed, 30 Sep 2026 00:23:55 -0400, Paul wrote:
Apparently Firefox browser can fill a form.pdf .8< snip >8
I was about to suggest this, but I wasn't sure.
I tested it, on my sample Acroform document and
modern Firefox filled the boxes OK. I didn't test the whole
cycle though (save and reopen elsewhere).
For Carlos' teacher friend, it makes more sense to test in Edge, as
she's unlikely to have (a need for) an extra browser on her/their
system(s).
[...]
Besides Edge, she has Chrome and Firefox.
I installed FFx because she complained about too many adverts in some
web pages. So FFx + Ublock origin.
I installed Chrome because that's the easiest when using Google for
Groups. She is most familiar with this one.
I don't think she uses Edge except by accident.
Thanks. I didn't know/realize that you were her Administrator. But I should have guessed! :-)
She says she is going to install Word, she is finding LO hard to get
used to. However, the only computer provided by her employer for the
teachers in that school has LO, not Word.
On 2026-10-01 20:21, Frank Slootweg wrote:
Paul <nospam@needed.invalid> wrote:
On Thu, 10/1/2026 11:40 AM, s|b wrote:
On Wed, 30 Sep 2026 00:23:55 -0400, Paul wrote:
Apparently Firefox browser can fill a form.pdf .8< snip >8
I was about to suggest this, but I wasn't sure.
I tested it, on my sample Acroform document and
modern Firefox filled the boxes OK. I didn't test the whole
cycle though (save and reopen elsewhere).
ÿÿ For Carlos' teacher friend, it makes more sense to test in Edge, as
she's unlikely to have (a need for) an extra browser on her/their
system(s).
[...]
Besides Edge, she has Chrome and Firefox.
I installed FFx because she complained about too many adverts in some
web pages. So FFx + Ublock origin.
I installed Chrome because that's the easiest when using Google for
Groups. She is most familiar with this one.
I don't think she uses Edge except by accident.
She says she is going to install Word, she is finding LO hard to get
used to. However, the only computer provided by her employer for the teachers in that school has LO, not Word.
On 10/01/2026 2:30 PM, Carlos E. R. wrote:
If you really want to mess her up install word and try to teach her
about the ribbon menu labyrinth
A friend (a teacher) has a problem with PDF files.
Management sends her files in PDF format which she is supposed to edit
and fill with names and data and send back. I asked chatgpt and Word can directly edit PDF files, with some limitations. I don't have word (nor
she unless she pays it herlself), so I can't try myself. Management does
not supply the employees with software nor laptops. Some cheek.
The Libre Office method is open in LO Draw, select the text, and copy to
a new LO Writer document. But each line is separate, text doesn't flow.
I wonder if there is a better or easier method.
I installed FFx
Carlos E. R. wrote:
My first suggestion, given I'll assume your teacher friend isn't technical, is for YOU to convert the PDF to MS Word with Calibre on your Linux box.
You can look at the document to see how faithful it is, as I don't think
I've ever in my life seen a perfect PDF-to-editing-format conversion.
But Calibre is pretty good. It can also convert to other markup languages, such as RTF, and since we used to use FrameMaker (well before Office), we
got pretty good at text editing of markup languages to fix those things.
If PDF to Calibre to MS Word and back to PDF doesn't work, let me know.
There are other conversion tools which I haven't tested myself in years.
<https://www.wps.com/pdf-to-word>
And there are online PDF-to-word conversion tools also, but this is getting long in the tooth so suffice to say I can work you through this process.
On Thu, 1 Oct 2026 20:30:24 +0200, Carlos E. R. wrote:
I installed FFx
Fx
(-;
On 2026-10-01 20:21, Frank Slootweg wrote:
Paul <nospam@needed.invalid> wrote:
On Thu, 10/1/2026 11:40 AM, s|b wrote:
On Wed, 30 Sep 2026 00:23:55 -0400, Paul wrote:
Apparently Firefox browser can fill a form.pdf .8< snip >8
I was about to suggest this, but I wasn't sure.
I tested it, on my sample Acroform document and
modern Firefox filled the boxes OK. I didn't test the whole
cycle though (save and reopen elsewhere).
For Carlos' teacher friend, it makes more sense to test in Edge, as
she's unlikely to have (a need for) an extra browser on her/their
system(s).
[...]
Besides Edge, she has Chrome and Firefox.
I installed FFx because she complained about too many adverts in some
web pages. So FFx + Ublock origin.
I installed Chrome because that's the easiest when using Google for
Groups. She is most familiar with this one.
I don't think she uses Edge except by accident.
She says she is going to install Word, she is finding LO hard to get
used to. However, the only computer provided by her employer for the teachers in that school has LO, not Word.
On 2026-10-02 16:12, s|b wrote:
On Thu, 1 Oct 2026 20:30:24 +0200, Carlos E. R. wrote:
I installed FFx
Fx
(-;
Heh. Nope, FFx is preferred.
On Fri, 2 Oct 2026 19:50:17 +0200, Carlos E. R. wrote:
On 2026-10-02 16:12, s|b wrote:
On Thu, 1 Oct 2026 20:30:24 +0200, Carlos E. R. wrote:
I installed FFx
Fx
(-;
Heh. Nope, FFx is preferred.
You're the first one who I've seen abbreviating it like that. But
actually Fx or fx is preferred.
<https://website-archive.mozilla.org/www.mozilla.org/firefox_releasenotes/en-us/firefox/releases/1.5>
| 8. How do I capitalize Firefox? How do I abbreviate it?
|
| Only the first letter is capitalized (so it's Firefox, not FireFox.) The preferred abbreviation is "Fx" or "fx".
Carlos E. R. wrote:
And there are online PDF-to-word conversion tools also, but this is getting >>> long in the tooth so suffice to say I can work you through this process.
Interesting; I had not thought of Calibre. That would work for me, but
not for her, too complicated I think.
However, we must wait till I get a sample file and can analyse it, then
find the best method. She is reticent in sending me a sample, she
prefers to wait till I get back from my trip.
Hi Carlos,
That's why I'm here... to give you freeware ideas nobody else does. :)
I agree the Calibre interface is, seemingly daunting, but I just ran a Calibre conversion of PDF to MS Word to test out the minimum steps.
There are buttons on the ribbon which do the conversion, such as
Add books + Convert books + Save to disk
which she can use later, when she's comfortable with the exact flow below.
1. Open PDF (either right click "Open with" or Calibre:File > Open
Rightclick the PDF in Windows file explorer > Open with >
The main Calibre program
2. That automatically adds it as the selected set, but if it's not the
selected set, just select it inside of the Calibre main interface
3. Rightclick selected set > Convert books > Convert individually >
Up pops the document where top right is "Output Format" which you
change from the EPUB default to DOCX instead and then hit OK.
Wait for Jobs, which incremented to 1, to go back down to 0.
4. After Jobs goes back to 0, rightclick selected set > Save to disk >
Save single format to disk > DOCX > OK
It will ask "Choose destination folder" in a File Explorer window.
That will create a hierarchy there (based on the PDF metadata), but all she needs is the final DOCX file.
No conversion is perfect, but this is worth trying because you can do the Calibre conversion on your Linux and teach her to do it on Windows later.
It's much simpler than it sounds when you write it up, as it's really just
a. Open
b. Convert (choose DOCX)
c. Save
I tested all sorts of PDF converters, but I use Calibre mostly as...
It's powerful. It's free. Open source. Cross platform. And updated.
A friend (a teacher) has a problem with PDF files.
Management sends her files in PDF format which she is supposed to edit
and fill with names and data and send back. I asked chatgpt and Word can directly edit PDF files, with some limitations. I don't have word (nor
she unless she pays it herlself), so I can't try myself. Management does
not supply the employees with software nor laptops. Some cheek.
The Libre Office method is open in LO Draw, select the text, and copy to
a new LO Writer document. But each line is separate, text doesn't flow.
I wonder if there is a better or easier method.
A friend (a teacher) has a problem with PDF files.
Management sends her files in PDF format which she is supposed to edit
and fill with names and data and send back. I asked chatgpt and Word can >directly edit PDF files, with some limitations. I don't have word (nor
she unless she pays it herlself), so I can't try myself. Management does
not supply the employees with software nor laptops. Some cheek.
The Libre Office method is open in LO Draw, select the text, and copy to
a new LO Writer document. But each line is separate, text doesn't flow.
I wonder if there is a better or easier method.
In article <osftomx8qd.ln2@Telcontar.valinor>, robin_listas@es.invalid says...
A friend (a teacher) has a problem with PDF files.
Management sends her files in PDF format which she is supposed to edit
and fill with names and data and send back. I asked chatgpt and Word can
directly edit PDF files, with some limitations. I don't have word (nor
she unless she pays it herlself), so I can't try myself. Management does
not supply the employees with software nor laptops. Some cheek.
The Libre Office method is open in LO Draw, select the text, and copy to
a new LO Writer document. But each line is separate, text doesn't flow.
I wonder if there is a better or easier method.
Side question (having already offered suggestions):
What's the best *paid* pdf editor? Foxit?
On Sun, 10/4/2026 6:42 AM, Philip Herlihy wrote:[]
[]Side question (having already offered suggestions):
What's the best *paid* pdf editor? Foxit?
A friend (a teacher) has a problem with PDF files.
Management sends her files in PDF format which she is supposed to edit
and fill with names and data and send back. I asked chatgpt and Word can directly edit PDF files, with some limitations. I don't have word (nor
she unless she pays it herlself), so I can't try myself. Management does
not supply the employees with software nor laptops. Some cheek.
The Libre Office method is open in LO Draw, select the text, and copy to
a new LO Writer document. But each line is separate, text doesn't flow.
I wonder if there is a better or easier method.
On 2026/10/4 13:4:44, Paul wrote:
On Sun, 10/4/2026 6:42 AM, Philip Herlihy wrote:[]
[]Side question (having already offered suggestions):
What's the best *paid* pdf editor? Foxit?
Followed by a well-phrased CoPilot question, and what looked to me to be
a very intelligently put together answer - clear explanation of the difference between editing and just annotating, and a detailed list of
the capabilities of each candidate, of each type.
(I remember the name ABBYY, as something that came with a scanner - I
think it didn't claim anything to do with PDFs [other than perhaps the ability to create one], being mainly an OCR with some ability to edit
the results; at the time - quite a lot of years ago - it seemed quite
good, especially for something provided free.)
In alt.comp.os.windows-11 J. P. Gilliver <G6JPG@255soft.uk> wrote:
On 2026/10/4 13:4:44, Paul wrote:
On Sun, 10/4/2026 6:42 AM, Philip Herlihy wrote:[]
[]Side question (having already offered suggestions):
What's the best *paid* pdf editor? Foxit?
Followed by a well-phrased CoPilot question, and what looked to me to be
a very intelligently put together answer - clear explanation of the
difference between editing and just annotating, and a detailed list of
the capabilities of each candidate, of each type.
(I remember the name ABBYY, as something that came with a scanner - I
think it didn't claim anything to do with PDFs [other than perhaps the
ability to create one], being mainly an OCR with some ability to edit
the results; at the time - quite a lot of years ago - it seemed quite
good, especially for something provided free.)
I indeed still have ABBYY FineReader 6.0 Sprint, which was supplied
with my EPSON PERFECTION V30 scanner [1].
AFAIK (just checked te Help again), you are correct that it does not process PDFs, but images, i.e JPEG, PNG, BMP, TIFF, etc. (or gets its
data fed directly from the scanner software).
Of course, you can scan a PDF and then feed the scan to it.
[1] IIRC, I helped someone (you?) who had lost (part of?) their scanner software.
On Sun, 10/4/2026 6:42 AM, Philip Herlihy wrote:
What's the best *paid* pdf editor? Foxit?
Paul wrote:
Didn't the ABBYY product have password cracking for PDF ?
I think that's one reason people bought a copy.
Long ago, like really long ago, I posted a tutorial for password removal. That's not the same as cracking, but the effect is the same per document.
Essentially, you edit the PDF in a program that doesn't respect the passwd. Voila! Save it and there's no password.
Dunno if something that simple still works though, as it was just too easy.
I used GSView and Ghostscript, at the time, but dunno if that still works.
Side question (having already offered suggestions):
What's the best*paid* pdf editor? Foxit?
## If you want to *move a text string on the screen* <=== [this is not reflow]
Only the following reliably support this:
- **Adobe Acrobat Pro**
- **Foxit PDF Editor**
- **PDF-XChange Editor**
- **PDFelement**
- **Nitro PDF Pro**
- **PDFgear (free)**
- **UPDF Pro**
- **PDF Expert** (digital PDFs only)
Everything else is annotation-only.
In article <119tfct$3sfpm$1@dont-email.me>, nospam@needed.invalid
says...
## If you want to *move a text string on the screen* <=== [this is not reflow]
Only the following reliably support this:
- **Adobe Acrobat Pro**
- **Foxit PDF Editor**
- **PDF-XChange Editor**
- **PDFelement**
- **Nitro PDF Pro**
- **PDFgear (free)**
- **UPDF Pro**
- **PDF Expert** (digital PDFs only)
Everything else is annotation-only.
With the exception of PDFGear (which is free, and really very good), all
of these have expensive annual subscriptions, which is something I
avoid. I don't feel cheated if I've shelled out for a lifetime license
and don't use it much, but that's intolerable with a subscription.
What I actually want is something that will extract the transactions
from bank statements (notoriously chaotically formatted internally) and export them to Excel. I'm currently playing with Power Query, but it's laborious due to the irregular internal structure of the documents.
In article <119tfct$3sfpm$1@dont-email.me>, nospam@needed.invalid
says...
## If you want to *move a text string on the screen* <=== [this is not reflow]
Only the following reliably support this:
- **Adobe Acrobat Pro**
- **Foxit PDF Editor**
- **PDF-XChange Editor**
- **PDFelement**
- **Nitro PDF Pro**
- **PDFgear (free)**
- **UPDF Pro**
- **PDF Expert** (digital PDFs only)
Everything else is annotation-only.
With the exception of PDFGear (which is free, and really very good), all
of these have expensive annual subscriptions, which is something I
avoid. I don't feel cheated if I've shelled out for a lifetime license
and don't use it much, but that's intolerable with a subscription.
What I actually want is something that will extract the transactions
from bank statements (notoriously chaotically formatted internally) and export them to Excel. I'm currently playing with Power Query, but it's laborious due to the irregular internal structure of the documents.
On 05/10/2026 11:25, Philip Herlihy wrote:[...]
What I actually want is something that will extract the transactions
from bank statements (notoriously chaotically formatted internally) and export them to Excel. I'm currently playing with Power Query, but it's laborious due to the irregular internal structure of the documents.
Have you checked which option(s) your bank offers for downloads? Many
now provide alternatives to pdf specifically to facilitate importing
data into spreadsheets or accounting software.
MikeS <MikeS@fred.com> wrote:
On 05/10/2026 11:25, Philip Herlihy wrote:[...]
What I actually want is something that will extract the transactionsHave you checked which option(s) your bank offers for downloads? Many
from bank statements (notoriously chaotically formatted internally) and
export them to Excel. I'm currently playing with Power Query, but it's
laborious due to the irregular internal structure of the documents.
now provide alternatives to pdf specifically to facilitate importing
data into spreadsheets or accounting software.
Indeed! Our (Dutch) banks offer PDF, Excel and CSV (Comma Seperated Values) formats. I think any somwhat 'modern' bank offers these options.
Our banks already offer them for over two decades! (I use CSV with my
own scripts.)
Have you checked which option(s) your bank offers for downloads? Many
now provide alternatives to pdf specifically to facilitate importing
data into spreadsheets or accounting software.
Calibre will convert a normal PDF to RTF or HTML or Text or MS Word, etc., >where you might be able to get that to csv and then to Excel if you want.
But maybe it's just better to use a table extractor such as Tabula (free)
or Camelot which are designed to pull tables out of PDFs into CSV/Excel.
There are 'perpetual' paid versions available instead of subscription
based versions.
PDF-XChange
EaseUS PDF
Xodo PDF
Foxit PDF
In article <11a0jm4$13rr4$1@dont-email.me>, winstonmvp@gmail.com says...
There are 'perpetual' paid versions available instead of subscription
based versions.
PDF-XChange
EaseUS PDF
Xodo PDF
Foxit PDF
Thanks for this. Foxit seems to be the most capable, but I don't see a perpetual license, and the annual one is expensive.
EasUS looks worth investigating; a perpetual license (with upgrades, and offered discount) is under œ60. I'll give it a try.
The option to purchase(not cheap, $210 US) PDF Editor 14 will be present
Thanks for this. Foxit seems to be the most capable, but I don't see a perpetual license, and the annual one is expensive.
Maria Sophia <mariasophia@comprehension.com> wrote or quoted:
There are *many* other solutions, but, for a noob, I'd try that first.
I wonder whether this is about filling out a PDF form or
really editing arbitrary parts of PDFs.
Usually when someone wants some info, he asks to fill out
/fields/ in a PDF, not to "edit" the PDF. A requirement to
"edit" a PDF would be strange. Some office suites claim
to be able to edit PDF files.
...Thanks for this. Foxit seems to be the most capable, but I don't see a
perpetual license, and the annual one is expensive.
https://www.foxit.com/shopping/
or
https://www.foxit.com/pdf-editor/pricing/
Load either url in a browser
Scroll all the way down on the page to the end of the FAQs, and find the >option 'Looking for perpetual licenses?' *Click Here*.
Click on the *Click Here* button
The option to purchase(not cheap, $210 US) PDF Editor 14 will be present
Note: In August 2025, Foxit stated that version 14 would be the last >issued.(i.e. Version 14 is already over a year old)
On 06/10/2026 16:05, Philip Herlihy wrote:
Thanks for this. Foxit seems to be the most capable, but I don't see a
perpetual license, and the annual one is expensive.
Most people will find that the old version of Adobe Acrobat Professional
XI is sufficient. It's a perpetual licence and includes almost all the >features of the free software available online, plus more!
1. Able2Extract Professional
It lets you manually define rows/columns when automatic conversion
PDFGear (free!) gets better and better in my estimation, and I may not
need to purchase anything for general use.
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