.png)
Gone are the days when signing a document meant having to print it, scrawl your signature in ink, and then scan it back into your computer. With digital tools, signing PDFs has become a breeze. Whether you’re using a computer, smartphone, or tablet, there are plenty of ways to add your signature to a document electronically. Let’s explore how you can sign PDFs without ever touching a printer.
Before diving into the “how,” it’s important to understand the “why.” Digital signatures offer several benefits:
- Convenience: You can sign documents from anywhere, without needing a printer or scanner.
- Speed: No more waiting to print, sign, and scan. It’s quick and easy to add a signature digitally.
- Security: Digital signatures can be encrypted, ensuring the authenticity of the document.
- Eco-friendly: You’re reducing paper waste by keeping everything digital.
To sign PDFs digitally, you’ll need one of the following:
- A computer with software like Adobe Acrobat Reader DC, Preview (for Mac users), or Microsoft Edge.
- A smartphone or tablet with apps like Adobe Fill & Sign, or built-in tools like Markup on iOS.
- An electronic signature tool like DocuSign or HelloSign, which are cloud-based services.
Adobe Acrobat Reader DC is a popular and free PDF viewer that includes tools for adding signatures.
1. Download and install Adobe Acrobat Reader DC if you don’t have it already.
2. Open your PDF file in Adobe Acrobat Reader DC.
3. Click on the “Fill & Sign” tool, which is available in the toolbar on the right side of the window.
4. In the “Fill & Sign” menu, click “Sign”, then “Add Signature”.
5. You’ll be prompted to choose from three options:
- Type: Type your name, and Acrobat will generate a signature in a script font.
- Draw: Use your mouse or trackpad to draw your signature.
- Image: Upload a scanned image of your signature.
6. Once your signature is added, drag it to the correct spot on the document.
7. Save the signed document by going to File > Save As.
Mac users can sign PDFs directly in Preview, the default PDF viewer.
1. Open your PDF in Preview.
2. Click on the “Markup” icon, which looks like a pencil tip inside a circle, or go to Tools > Annotate > Signature.
3. Click “Create Signature” and choose one of the following:
- Trackpad: Use your trackpad to draw your signature.
- Camera: Sign on a piece of paper and hold it up to your Mac’s camera to capture it.
- iPhone/iPad: If you have an iPhone or iPad connected to the same iCloud account, you can use these devices to create your signature.
4. Once created, click to place the signature in your document.
5. Drag the signature to where it needs to go and resize if necessary.
6. Save the signed PDF by selecting File > Export as PDF.
Microsoft Edge, the default browser in Windows, has built-in tools for adding a signature to PDFs.
1. Open your PDF in Microsoft Edge by right-clicking the file and selecting “Open with > Microsoft Edge”.
2. Click on the “Draw” tool, represented by a pen icon in the toolbar.
3. Draw your signature using your mouse, trackpad, or touchscreen.
4. Save the document by clicking on the disk icon or going to “Save As”.
Adobe Fill & Sign is a mobile app that makes signing PDFs on your phone or tablet simple.
1. Download and install Adobe Fill & Sign from the App Store or Google Play Store.
2. Open the app and import your PDF by tapping on the “Select a form to fill out” option.
3. Tap the “Sign” icon, and choose to create a new signature.
4. Use your finger or stylus to draw your signature on the screen.
5. Tap on the signature to place it in the document.
6. Resize and position the signature as needed, then save or share the signed document.
For those who need to sign multiple documents or want a more professional tool, web-based services like DocuSign or HelloSign are ideal.
1. Create an account on the service you prefer.
2. Upload your PDF document to the platform.
3. Use the platform’s tools to add your signature by either typing, drawing, or uploading an image of your signature.
4. Once signed, the document is usually stored securely in your account, and you can download or email it directly.
- Practice your digital signature: If you’re using a tool that requires you to draw your signature, it might take a few tries to get it right.
- Keep your software updated: Ensure you’re using the latest version of your software or app for the best experience.
- Use a stylus: If you’re signing on a tablet or phone, a stylus can give you better control over your signature.
Signing PDFs digitally not only saves time but also contributes to a more efficient and eco-friendly workflow. With the variety of tools and methods available, whether you’re on a computer or a mobile device, adding your signature to a document is easier than ever. By following the steps outlined above, you can confidently sign PDFs without ever needing to print them.
Support.com is committed to your privacy
We do not share or sell your data to third parties. We do use cookies and other third-party technologies to improve our site and services. The California Consumer Privacy Act (CCPA) gives you the ability to opt out of the use of cookies, third-party technologies and/or the future sale of your data. Do not sell my personal information.
Support.com is committed to your privacy
Read our Privacy Policy for a clear explanation of how we collect, use, disclose and store your information
