Many students and teachers at BHS have trouble with PDFs on their iPads. They don’t know what apps to use to view them or how to edit them within those applications. Thats why in this article I compiled a list of the top iPad applications for viewing and editing PDF files in no particular order. They are all pretty good at what they do so it’s up to the user to decide what app fits them best.

1. Goodreader

Goodreader is a useful app for PDF file viewing and editing. It allows users to use an array of editing tools on the document. These range from using sticky note style notes that can expand to show a lot of text. The app also allows the user to right directly on the document in various colors. It also lets users draw basic shapes on the document like rectangles to write in. Priced at $5.00 it’s a bit expensive but it’s worth it if you need the PDF editing tools on this app.

2. iAnnotate PDF

This app is very professional looking at first glance it has a smooth user interface with tabs at the top to organize your files similar to most internet browsers tab feature. This in my opinion is a big plus over other apps because staying organized is simple and easy with iAnnotate PDF. It offers editing tools such as highlighting words or sentences of a file plus multiple colored “pens” to write on your file along with underlining as well. you can keep your files in different folders based on their content to storage of files is a breeze too. The downside of this app is the price, at $10.00 it is on the expensive side but this is my personal favorite of the PDF editing applications. It’s definitely worth the price if you get enough use out of it.

3. PaperPort Notes

Many people may remember this app as noterize, but it recently underwent a name change in the app store. This app lets the user import documents for editing and is compatible with the “open with” feature on the email application when receiving email attachments. You are also able to create notes and documents within this app as well. The best part of this one is thats its free so there is no risk in getting it. If you don’t like it then you can just delete it.

I would recommend getting iAnnotate PDF if you have the money but Paperport notes is a good alternative if you are strapped on cash.