How to add PDF comments

PDF comments are the simplest way to tell your designer exactly what you would like changed on your book. Instead of describing a spot in a long email, you pin a note directly onto the page, right where the change is needed. This guide shows you how to read the comments we add for you, and how to add your own.

It is a much clearer way to work. Rather than writing something like 'on page 23, top left, at the bottom of the picture', you or your designer can drop a small comment exactly where it belongs and add a few words. We use comments to explain a design choice, ask you a quick question, or point out something that needs your attention.

You will need Acrobat Reader

To read or add comments, open your PDF in Adobe Acrobat Reader. Adobe invented the PDF, so their reader is the most reliable way to open any PDF exactly as it was meant to look. It is already on most computers, and if not, it is free from the Adobe website: Adobe Reader.

Acrobat looks a little different depending on which version you have, and whether you are on a Windows PC or a Mac, and Adobe refreshes the design from time to time. The important thing is that the comment tools are always there. They may simply sit in a slightly different place. Throughout this guide, look for the Comment tool, usually a small speech bubble icon. Depending on your version you will find it in a toolbar down one side of the window, in a panel on the right, or along the top menu.

Reading the comments on your file

Open your PDF and select the Comment tool. A comments panel opens, listing every comment on the file. You can now work your way down the list, and clicking any comment jumps straight to the spot on the page it refers to.

Adding your own comments

Adding your own feedback is just as easy. With the Comment tool open, choose the option to add a comment or sticky note, then click the exact spot on the page where you want it. Now type your request, describing clearly what you would like changed.

You will notice plenty of other tools too, for highlighting, drawing, inserting text and marking up corrections. Unless you are already comfortable with them, the easiest approach is to stick to plain comments. That keeps everything in one clear list, so nothing gets missed and we can see exactly what you need.

Save it, then send it back

One last point, and an important one. When you have finished, remember to save the PDF, so all your comments are kept. Then simply send it back to us, and we will work through your feedback.

This is exactly how our authors review the proofs of their books before they go to print. If you would like your own book formatted and typeset to the same professional standard, you can read more about our book formatting services.