❓What is an electronic signature?

An electronic signature is a digital form of your handwritten signature that allows you to sign documents online. This can be as simple as typing your name or as advanced as inserting a secure digital signature backed by encryption. E-signatures help you add signature to documents quickly, eliminate printing delays, and streamline approvals, especially in remote or hybrid work setups.

❓What are the different ways to create an e-signature?

There are several ways to create an e-signature depending on your tools and preferences:

• Draw your signature using a touchscreen or mouse

• Type your name and choose a signature-style font

• Upload an image of your handwritten signature

• Use a signature paste by copying an existing image of your signature into a document

• Make a sign for free online using platforms like PandaDoc, DocuSign, or CreateMySignature

Each method is valid, though some provide more legal assurance than others, especially when adding a digital signature that’s encrypted and verified.

❓How to make a digital signature on a PDF?

To make a digital signature on a PDF, follow these steps:

In Adobe Acrobat:

1. Open the PDF you want to sign

2. Click on Fill & Sign in the right-hand panel

3. Select Sign > Add Signature

4. Choose to type, draw, or upload your signature

5. Click to place your signature in the document

   
   

With PandaDoc or similar platforms:

1. Upload your PDF file

2. Drag a signature field into the document

3. Sign it yourself or send it to another person for signing

   
   

With ROGER:

1. Log into your ROGER dashboard and click Upload Contract

2. Add recipients and assign signature roles

3. Drag and drop the Signature field onto your uploaded PDF

4. Click Send or choose Sign Now if you're the signer

5. ROGER will automatically notify recipients and track the signing process

Using ROGER for adding a digital signature offers more than just basic signing, it includes real-time updates, customizable signature flows, and an audit trail so you know exactly when a document is opened, signed, or completed.

Digital signatures on PDFs add an extra layer of security, often using encryption and audit logs to ensure the integrity and authenticity of your documents.

❓Can I just copy and paste my signature into a document?

Yes. This is commonly known as using a signature paste. It involves copying a previously saved image of your signature and pasting it into a document, whether it’s a Word file, PDF, or Google Doc.

While signature paste is convenient, keep in mind it doesn’t provide authentication or traceability like a certified digital signature would. It’s best used for informal documents or when speed is more important than legal rigor.

❓How can I add an electronic signature in Microsoft Word?

To add an e-signature in Word:

1. Place your cursor where you want the signature

2. Go to the Insert tab

3. Click Text > Signature Line

4. Enter your information in the setup box

5. Once inserted, click the line to sign with a certificate or image

You can also insert an image of your handwritten signature or use third-party tools to add a digital signature with a timestamp and validation.

❓How do I add an electronic signature in Google Docs?

To sign a Google Doc:

1. Go to Insert > Drawing > + New

2. Use the drawing tool to sign with your mouse or touchpad

3. Save and insert the drawing into the document

Alternatively, install an add-on like DocuSign or PandaDoc to drag and drop a signature field directly into the document.

❓Can I include an electronic signature in emails?

Yes, but keep in mind there's a difference between signing an email and signing a document attached to an email.

To sign emails:

• Use your email client’s settings (Gmail, Outlook, etc.) to create a signature block

• You can insert a stylized version of your name, contact info, job title, and even a small image of your handwritten signature

To include an electronic signature in email attachments:

• Use an e-signature platform to sign the attached document

• Save and reattach the signed file before sending

If you need to add signature to documents like contracts or NDAs, it's better to use a tool that offers digital signatures with audit trails and validation.

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

Here’s the key difference:

• Electronic Signature: Any electronic mark or process that indicates consent or approval. It can be typed, drawn, or inserted

• Digital Signature: A secure type of electronic signature that uses encryption, public keys, and digital certificates to validate the signer’s identity and document integrity

Digital signatures are ideal for contracts, financial documents, or legal files where you need extra security. They're also the answer to how to make a digital signature on a PDF with verified tracking. 

❓What’s the easiest way to sign something online?

The fastest method is to make a sign for free online using tools like ROGER. These platforms let you draw or type your signature, and then save or insert it into documents. Most offer free plans or trials to help you get started with adding a digital signature to files without the hassle of printing or scanning.

❓What documents can be signed electronically?

Almost any document that needs approval or acknowledgment can be signed electronically, including:

• Contracts and NDAs

• HR forms and employment letters

• Purchase orders

• Vendor agreements

• Rental or lease documents

• Financial statements

Always double-check local laws to confirm that e-signatures are acceptable for the specific type of agreement. In most cases, especially with PDFs and Word files, you can easily add signature to documents with a few clicks.

❓Are electronic signatures legally binding?

In most countries, yes. E-signatures are legally recognized and enforceable under laws like:

• ESIGN Act and UETA in the United States

• eIDAS Regulation in the European Union

• Equivalent laws in Canada, Australia, India, and others

To ensure full legal enforceability, use platforms that include digital signature support, authentication features, and an audit trail.

❓Can I make an electronic signature for free?

Absolutely. You can make a sign for free online using various tools that don’t require payment like ROGER.

These tools are great for small businesses, startups, freelancers, or anyone needing to add signature to documents without installing expensive software.