PDF Questions and Answers

 
(Adobe website)

What are the portable document format files?

Portable document format files (PDF files) are documents designed to be viewed and printed from any computer (Macintosh, Unix, DOS, or Windows) using a web browser.  Printed PDF documents look exactly like the original documents, regardless of the application they were created in.  PDF documents may contain form fields that users can fill in before printing or submitting the document electronically.

How do I use a PDF document ?

In your web browser simply click on the link to the PDF file. If your browser is properly configured Acrobat Reader will launch and present you with the pdf document and an Adobe toolbar.  If your browser is not properly configured it may ask you to pick an application.  Follow the directions below.

	To resize: use the page or magnifier tools to resize the form.  The third page tools resizes the form to fit the window.
	To fill: make sure the hand tool is selected.  If the document has yellow form fields us the tab and shift-tab keys to move between form fields.  Enter data.  Fields may be formatted as check boxes, text boxes or drop down lists.
	To print: use the print tool on the Adobe toolbar.
	To scroll: drag the body of the document with your mouse or use the vertical scroll bar (do not use the page up or page down keys on your keyboard).

Can I fill the form before printing?

Some pdf forms have form fields that can be filled prior to printing.  Some do not.

Can I submit the PDF form data electronically?

At this time Business Office pdf forms are printed and routed by campus mail for authorizing signatures before reaching their destination.   It is possible in future that some pdf forms will be routed electronically.

Can I save the new PDF forms?

Yes.  However this is not recommended.   Forms change over time.  The version number is included at the bottom right corner of each form.  By visiting our website each time you are certain to have the most current version.

Can I save PDF form data?

No.  Form data remains in memory only until you close your web browser.  Using Acrobat Reader the PDF file can be saved but without the form field contents.

If you purchase Adobe Acrobat then you can create, edit and save PDF forms with form field contents.