In today’s digital age, electronic signatures have become a popular way to sign documents online. Simply put, an electronic signature (or e-signature) is a digital version of your handwritten signature that is used to sign documents electronically.

Why are electronic signatures becoming increasingly popular? Above all else, they’re more efficient than printing out a document, signing it, and then scanning it. With e-signatures, you can sign a document from anywhere, at any time, and on any device. Here’s how to create an electronic signature in just a few steps.

How to create an e- signature: 3 simple methods

Ready to start signing documents electronically? First, you’ll need to learn how to make a digital signature to add to online documents. Here’s how to get started.

1. Create an e-signature with Picsart

With Picsart’s all-in-one photo editing suite, it’s easier than ever to create digital signatures. To create your own electronic signature, all you have to do is open Picsart Draw, choose the right drawing tool, and write your signature. It’s that simple!

When you’re finished creating your e-signature, simply add a transparent background and save your image as a PNG. Then, you can easily add your e-signature to online documents and PDF files as needed.

2. Scan your physical signature

If you already have a handwritten signature, you can scan it and save it as an image file. Then, you can use the Picsart Background Remover to create a transparent background, insert the image into your document, and resize it as needed. Although this method is quick and easy, it may result in a lower-quality, less polished-looking signature.

3. Draw a signature in Microsoft Word

As a popular document creation tool, Microsoft Office has been the industry standard for years. To create a signature in a Microsoft Word document, navigate to the Insert tab under “text,” click “Signature List,” and select “Microsoft Office Signature Line.”

Once you’ve entered the required fields, you can draw your signature using a touchscreen device or type a printed version into the signature box. Unfortunately, using this method to sign documents outside of Microsoft Word can be challenging, and soliciting signatures from multiple signers can be time-consuming.

E-signatures: Frequently asked questions

Now that you know how to create an e-signature, here’s everything you need to know to start signing documents electronically.

  • What’s the difference between an electronic signature and a digital signature?

Electronic signatures and digital signatures are both methods of signing documents electronically, but there are a few differences between the two. An electronic signature refers to any electronic process that indicates the acceptance of an agreement, such as typing your name into a document or clicking an “I Agree” button on a website.

 

Meanwhile, a digital signature is a specific type of electronic signature that uses encryption techniques to ensure the authenticity of a document. If you’re wondering how to create a digital signature, you’ll need to use a digital certificate that contains information about the signer, such as their name and email address, to verify their identity.

  • What are the benefits of using an electronic signature?

The primary benefit of an e-signature is that you can sign documents anywhere, at any time, on any device. Electronic signatures are also more secure than traditional signatures, since e-signatures are usually accompanied by a unique identifier that verifies your identity.

Plus, electronic signatures are environmentally friendly. By signing documents electronically, you’re reducing paper waste. In turn, you’re not only helping the environment but you’ll also save money on paper and printing costs. Win-win!

  • How do you insert a signature in a PDF?

Inserting a signature in a PDF can be done in a few different ways depending on your preferences and the tools you have available. Some common ways to insert electronic signatures into PDF documents include:

  • Adobe Acrobat: If you have access to Adobe Acrobat, you can use the “Fill & Sign” tool to add your signature to a PDF. Start by opening the document in Acrobat, click on the “Fill & Sign” tool in the right-hand pane, and then select “Sign” from the options that appear. You can then choose to type, draw, or upload an image of your signature.
  • Preview (Mac): If you’re using a Mac, you can use the Preview app to add your signature to a PDF. Open the document in Preview, click on the “Markup Toolbar” (which looks like a toolbox), and then select the “Signature” tool. You can then choose to create a new signature using your trackpad, or you can use an existing signature that you’ve saved.
  • Online tools: There are also online tools that allow you to add your signature to a PDF. With free online PDF tools from Quicktools by Picsart, you can upload a PDF file and then annotate or add an image of your e-signature in just a few clicks.

Create professional e-signatures with Picsart

Whether you’re wondering how to create electronic signatures for work documents or leasing agreements, it only takes a few minutes to create a professional signature with Picsart. Digital signatures offer an ultra-convenient and highly secure way to sign documents online. If you haven’t used one yet, give it a try!