PDF (Portable Document Format) is an acronym that stands for Portable Document Format. It’s a file format created by Adobe Systems Incorporation that allows you to create a document that can be viewed on several computers and devices (e.g., Windows, Mac, or Linux) without any special software requirements. The PDF document is also known as a “PDF file” or “Adobe Acrobat.” With the aid of this article, you will learn what a PDF signature is, why you would need it, and how to sign a PDF to simplify your life!
What is a PDF signature?
A signature is a mark you can put on something, in this case a document, to show that you agree with it. A PDF file is an electronic document that stores all the text, images, and formatting in one location so they can be easily accessed later. A PDF signature is an image that displays your name, which allows you to digitally sign a document without printing it out and then scanning it back into your computer again.
Every time someone clicks on “Sign” in Acrobat Professional (which should also be available as part of Adobe Reader), they will see two options: “Sign Document” or “Sign & Save As.” The former allows users to add their names directly to the document. In contrast, the latter lets people save their signatures separately from the documents themselves by creating separate files for each one.
“To sign PDFs, create a signature and place it or your initials anywhere in the document,” as Adobe Acrobat says.
Why would you need it?
The point of a digital signature is to prove that you are the person who wrote the document and to prove that the document is real, complete, and hasn’t been changed.
The main reason for this is that most people use PDFs for legal purposes, such as contracts or agreements. For example, if someone were to alter or change your contract, you would not be able to prove that it wasn’t in its original form when signed by both parties.
How do I sign a PDF document?
A digital signature is an electronic identifier that can be added to a document. It consists of a signature, which is usually in the form of an image or text, and some additional information (e.g., the date of signing). A user can apply their digital signature to any document they want.
There are several ways to add a digital signature:
- Use a digital pen or stylus to sign your document with your finger on an electronic device, such as a smartphone or tablet computer, and then save it as a PDF file.
- Use the Adobe Reader XI program for adding scanned signatures via OCR technology (Optical Character Recognition).
The benefits of a signed document
A PDF signature is a visual representation of your electronic identity. It can be used to prove that you are the document’s owner and that it is authentic, as well as proof that the document has not been altered in any way. This process allows you to be certain that when someone opens your documents, they will see exactly what you intended them to see.
So what is the purpose of a PDF signature? Well, there are many benefits to it. You can use it as proof that you have signed a document, and no one can deny it because all the information will be there in front of you.
Sign and Send PDF documents online
There was a time when you had to download software to sign a PDF. The world has changed even more; now, everything is done online, including major software such as Adobe and Google products. PDF is one of them; you can easily create a pdf online, sign it, and send it through email or social networks. There are many websites offering pdf services with free and premium options, and some are open source (you can create, sign, and use some features for free).
