Abstract: An apparatus and method for forming a scannable form on a blank sheet from a data file. A computer is operated thereby signaling a printer to print a scannable form having a series of timing marks and further having data derived from the data file including a plurality of indicators of spaces to be optionally marked for scanning. Each of the indicators is aligned with one of the timing marks and with a scan head position for scanning of marked indicator spaces in order that the form as printed by the printer may advantageously be in finished scannable form. The data including the plurality of indicators is preferably heuristically best-fitted for printing on the form.