The Best Methods to Add Electronic Signature to PDFs

Q: 3. How Do I Sign a Document Sent by Email?

Download the PDF: Save the document that requires your signature to your device and open it in UPDF. Locate the Signature Tool: Navigate to the signing options in UPDF, where you can create a typed, handwritten, or image signature. Insert Your Signature: Use your chosen method to place your signature in the appropriate location within the PDF. Save the Document: After signing, make sure to save your changes. UPDF will prompt you to save the edited document. Return the Document: Attach the signed PDF to the original email and send it to the recipient.

Knowing how to electronically sign PDF documents is a task we all face, whether in our daily lives or at work. But let's be honest — sometimes it feels like something that's way too complicated or costly to do. Luckily, if you're using a digital software, signing PDFs is about to become a breeze. With just a few clicks in the app, you can easily add your signature to any document, making sure your approval or consent shines through loud and clear.

In this article, we'll dive into three super easy methods on how to electronically sign PDF documents for free. So, whether you're a busy employee, student, or anyone in between, our guide is here to make the signing process simple and enjoyable, so you can focus on what truly matters—getting things done! Let's keep on reading to learn more.

Part 1. How to Electronically Sign a PDF

Ready to put a digital stamp on your documents? UPDF makes it a breeze to add your signature to PDFs with four easy methods, perfect for all sorts of users! With its built-in signature feature, you can create your signature using your mouse or keyboard in just a snap. Feeling artsy? You can even draw your signature, tweaking the pen size and color to match your style. If you've got a signature saved as an image on your computer, simply upload it, or take a more professional route with a digital signature for sensitive documents. Download UPDF using the link below to get started!

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But that's not all! UPDF is packed with other handy tools to help you organize your PDFs, crop pages, and make your work more efficient with built-in AI. Need a summary or an explanation of terms in your PDFs? UPDF's AI assistant has got you covered, so you won't have to juggle multiple applications.

Before we jump into the main steps, let's break down the three types of electronic signatures you can create:

Image Signature: Upload an existing image of your handwritten signature, giving you the convenience of using your authentic mark.
Typed Signature: Quickly type your name using your keyboard to create a clean electronic signature.
Handwritten Signature: Use your creativity! Draw your signature with your mouse or trackpad for that personal flair.

Now that you've decided which type of signature to use, let's dive into the steps for adding it to any PDF document:

Method 1. Draw a Signature

Looking to add a more artistic flair to your signature? The pencil tool is just what you need! Here's how to sign PDFs in a unique way:

Step 1: Open the PDF in UPDF and enter the comment mode, then select Signature from the top toolbar.

Step 2: Choose "Create" and select the "Mouse" option and draw your signature directly on the canvas.

Step 2: Customize the signature by adjusting the thickness and color using the controls in the bottom-right corner.

If you want to remove the signature, click the 'Clear' button. Save your signature to UPDF Cloud for easy reuse across Android, iOS, and Mac platforms.

Step 3: Once you have created the signature, you can add it to the PDF.

Method 2. Type a Signature with Keyboard

If you're after a straightforward and polished way to sign your PDFs, opt for a typed signature. It's super customizable and easy to set up! Follow these steps to get started:

Step 1: Select the "Keyboard" option to create your signature by typing in your name.

Step 2: Customize the signature's color using the option located in the top-right corner.

Step 3: Once you're satisfied with your signature, tap "Create" to finalize it.

Step 4: Drag the added signature to your desired location on the PDF and place it there. This allows you to successfully add an electronic signature.

Method 3. Import an Image as a Signature

Another way to create a signature for your PDF is by using an image. This lets you handwrite your signature on paper and incorporate it into your digital files. For optimal results, use white paper when signing. Before using UPDF to sign a PDF with an image signature, be sure to have it installed on your device.

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Step 1: Click the image icon to upload your signature from local storage.

Step 2: After importing the image, use UPDF's cropping tool to remove any unwanted areas. You can also adjust the image's color if needed.

Step 3: Once you're done with the adjustments, click "Create," then click the desired area on the PDF to place your signature.

UPDF is compatible with Mac, iOS, and Android devices, allowing you to electronically sign PDFs seamlessly across platforms. For more tips and tricks on how to make the most of UPDF for electronic signatures, be sure to explore the following user guides:

Part 2. Extended Reading

1. What's the Difference Between an Electronic Signature and a Digital Signature?

Although often used interchangeably, "electronic signatures" and "digital signatures" are different and serve distinct purposes.

Electronic Signatures: These represent a person's intent to sign a document and can be a scanned signature, typed name, or a click of consent. They are easy to create and legally recognized under laws like the ESIGN Act in the U.S., provided they meet authenticity requirements.

Digital Signatures: These offer higher security through cryptographic methods, using a public and private key to verify the signer's identity and ensure the document remains unaltered. Digital signatures often require certification authorities, making them ideal for secure transactions.

2. Can I Digitally Sign PDFs?

UPDF's digital signature feature is perfect for securing sensitive documents like business contracts or legal agreements, where trust and authenticity are crucial.

To get started, simply add a digital signature field to your PDF. You can create a new digital ID or use an existing one. Once signed, UPDF encrypts the document to ensure its integrity—any alterations after signing will flag the signature as invalid, safeguarding both parties.

By using digital signatures, you ensure high security and show your commitment to protecting important documents, all with UPDF's simple and secure process.

3. How Do I Sign a Document Sent by Email?

Download the PDF: Save the document that requires your signature to your device and open it in UPDF.
Locate the Signature Tool: Navigate to the signing options in UPDF, where you can create a typed, handwritten, or image signature.
Insert Your Signature: Use your chosen method to place your signature in the appropriate location within the PDF.
Save the Document: After signing, make sure to save your changes. UPDF will prompt you to save the edited document.
Return the Document: Attach the signed PDF to the original email and send it to the recipient.

Wrapping Up

Learning how to electronically sign a PDF is not just a valuable skill — it's essential in today's daily life. UPDF makes the entire process a breeze, allowing you to create and add electronic signatures to your documents effortlessly, whether you're on your computer or using your mobile device.

Whether you need to sign contracts for business or jot down your signature for personal use, UPDF has you covered. The platform ensures that the process is secure, efficient, and completely free! So why wait? Dive into the world of electronic signing with UPDF today and make it a seamless part of your routine!

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