Sign on a PDF – here’s how

Electronic signatures are fast becoming the norm in an increasingly digitized world. The Adobe Acrobat Reader lets you open, read, and digitally sign PDF files – all for free. You can type your signature, draw it, or add a picture of your signature to a PDF file. Read on to find out how in our step-by-step tutorial.

1. Launch the PDF document or form that you want to sign.
2. Click on the “Sign document” symbol in the tool menu. Alternatively, you can select the “Fill and sign” pen icon on the right side of the toolbar and then select the “Fill & Sign” box on the left.
3. Select the “Sign” symbol in the toolbar and “Add Signature”.
4. Type your name, draw your name (using the mouse or touchpad or a touchscreen), or add a scan of your signature as an image file.
5. Click “Apply” and place the signature into the desired spot.
6. Save the signed PDF document.

Step 6: Your PDF document is now digitally signed and ready to be shared. Click “Save File” in the toolbar or select “File” and then “Save”. Specify the desired location for the PDF file and click “Save”.

You can also use presented variants to insert your signature into a fillable PDF. Remember: when signing an official document or a contract, you should use the methods that correspond to your actual signature. That is, typing your name is usually not enough unless you also sign with block letters.

Either use your “drawn” signature or insert a scanned image file. Your digital signature should resemble the “real” one you use on other documents, such as your ID card.

If you type your signature using a mouse or a touchscreen, you may need several attempts. The effort is worth it, because afterwards you can insert the successful (and saved) signature into other PDF documents. It is easier if you are used to drawing with your fingers on the touchscreen or use a device with an input pen.