Sign a PDF Digitally with Few Simple Steps

The ability to sign PDF documents digitally is essential today as digital signatures allow for convenient and efficient agreement sealing and adding a layer of authentication to digital forms.

Signing a PDF digitally is simple enough. Let’s explore some straightforward steps that work universally across platforms:

Steps to Sign a PDF

1. Open the PDF File

Start by opening the PDF file, usually from an email attachment or a downloaded version. Use a specialized digital signature solution for a better experience than a PDF reader.

2. Fill in the Necessary Details Before Signing

Once opened, read through the document carefully and use your cursor or touch to navigate and fill in the necessary details, if any. 

3. Create Your Digital Signature

You can create your digital signature in three ways:

• Draw: Use your mouse or touchscreen to draw your signature. Make it as authentic as your pen-and-paper version.
• Type: Simply typing your name is also a valid choice. Digital signature tools suggest you select pre-made fonts for your signature to appear more authentic.
• Image: Upload an image of your handwritten signature from anywhere on your device or cloud storage. Make sure the wet signature is pixel clear.

4. Place Your Signature

Click or tap where you want to place your signature in the PDF. Resize it to fit the space perfectly.

5. Save the Signed PDF

Once you're satisfied with the signature placement and style, save the PDF with your digital signature in place.

How to Sign an Agreement?

When it comes to agreements, digital signatures hold the same weight as traditional ink-on-paper signatures in most jurisdictions.

Sign Using Windows:

1. Use a digital signature tool: Using a digital signature tool is far more reliable than any other option. They provide you with proof, security, and compliance all in one. Advanced tools integrate seamlessly within your workflows, making digital signatures far more convenient. 
2. Use a web-based tool: Once you open your preferred tool on the browser, upload the document you need to sign. Click on "Sign" from the toolbar, and follow the on-screen prompts to create or upload your digital signature.
3. Use Microsoft Word/PDF Editor: Microsoft Word allows you to place signatures on the shared document. PDF readers also let you add and adjust the signature on a PDF file. 

Sign Using Mac:

1. Use a digital signature tool: If you're choosing a digital signature tool, then be mindful to check the compatibility with the Mac system before you sign up. Digital signatures offer you proof, security, and compliance - all in one. Advanced tools integrate seamlessly within your workflow, making your digital signature convenient. 
2. Use a web-based tool: For web-based tools, it doesn't matter if you're a Windows user or a Mac user. Once you open the preferred tool on the browser, upload the document you need to sign. Click on "Sign" from the toolbar, and follow the on-screen prompts to create or upload your digital signature.
3. Use PDF Editor: PDF readers also let you add and adjust the signature on a PDF file. 

Pro tip: If you want to draw your signature, an apple pencil is the best choice.

Send Your Signed PDFs

1. Email Attachment:

• Draft a new email to the recipient or hit "reply" to attach the signed copy of the document and send it via email.

2. Cloud Storage:

• Upload your signed PDF to a cloud storage service like Google Drive, Dropbox, or OneDrive. Generate a shareable link to the PDF and send it via email or messenger to grant access to the signed document.

3. Digital Signature Platforms:

• Just click "Submit" or "Send" after signing your document, and the tool will take care of the rest.

FAQs

Q: Are digitally signed PDFs legally valid?

Yes, digitally signed PDFs hold legal validity in most jurisdictions, provided they adhere to specific requirements.

Q: Can I use my smartphone to sign PDFs? 

Absolutely! Many PDF reader apps or eSignature tools support smartphone screens or browser-based signing.

Q: Do I need an internet connection for digital signatures?

An internet connection is typically required for accessing online signature services. However, if you're using offline software, you may not need to sign the document, but to send across to anyone via email, it’s required.