pdf modification

[Ergo]

Okay, it's a writing question (kinda).

I'd like to apply for a job but the online application form is a downloadable protected pdf and won't allow me to insert my information in the fields provided.

I tried saving it as a text document, however all of the formatting goes away.

How can I modify the doc so it will allow me to type in everything cleanly and not jeopardize my chances due to my pathetic handwriting.

Thanks

[mirandashell]

I don't think you can. It's kind of the point of a pdf, I think. I might be wrong though.

And I think companies do them as pdfs so that they get to see your handwriting. So the answer is practice.

[Ergo]

Thanks mirandashell. I suspect that the 27 viewers of this thread concur or they would have chimed in with additional insight.

Looks like I'm obligated to do it the old fashion way. ugh.

[mirandashell]

Like I said, practice your answers on scrap paper. Check your spelling and grammar.

Then when you do fill in the form, concentrate and go slowly.

[lordzapharos]

If you are absolutely desperate, you can unlock the PDF with a special tool. You can read about it here (http://www.makeuseof.com/tag/how-to-unlock-adobe-pdf-files-2/), and download it here (http://free-pdf-unlocker.en.softonic.com/). I haven't had a personal need to use these, so I can't say much for them.

You can also try converting the PDF to an image file, which you could then open up in Paint or Photoshop and, using the text tool, fill out. But it seems like an awful amount of trouble to avoid handwriting... :)

[Tirjasdyn]

Do they want you to send it to them electronically or in person? If in person, I'd write it out.

Electronically, you can try to unlock it or use an image program but it may look as sloppy as if you hand-wrote your answers.

[dangerousbill]

Okay, it's a writing question (kinda).

I'd like to apply for a job but the online application form is a downloadable protected pdf and won't allow me to insert my information in the fields provided.


Some people forget that not everyone has, or can afford, the full version of Acrobat.

Method 1: Screen capture the form (Alt-PrtScrn) and paste it into a Word document. Paste text over it using the Draw tools. (Tedious)

Method 2: Print the blank document and fill it in. Mail it or scan it and send the scan back.

Method 3: (recommended) Call them up and ask them what the frack you're supposed to do with their bloody form.

[dangerousbill]

I don't think you can. It's kind of the point of a pdf, I think. I might be wrong though.

And I think companies do them as pdfs so that they get to see your handwriting. So the answer is practice.

A pdf can be made 'fillable', so a recipient can enter information in certain fields. For example, Arizona State tax forms are mostly that way. Usually, you're supposed to print it after you fill it out.

To save it, you need the full version of Acrobat, or the sender has to have made it save-able (I don't know how they do that, but some forms can be saved with the filled in text.)

[Nephytis]

scan or fax in the form you want to send in, whether its hand written or using the draw tools format/ copy paste.

you could always get really creative and cut out words/letters from a magazine and paste them onto the paper. ;)

[Ergo]

:) Thank you for all of your kind replies/suggestions.

[Matera the Mad]

I would try running it through a free PDF "printer" (PDF Creator, NitroPDF, et al) and thensee if the resulting new PDF file can be worked in.

I prefer NitroPDF reader for working on forms (which reminds me, 'tis tax time).

[PEBKAC]

Matera, why'd you go and have to use the T word. I don't mind paying them I just hate the paperwork :'(