How to add handwritten signatures in Microsoft Word.
Adding a handwritten signature to a Word document is an easy way to personalize digital files, whether you’re signing a contract, form, or letter.
Adding handwritten signatures to your emails and letters closes your communications with a polished, professional look and serves as an opportunity to reinforce your brand. In this guide, you’ll learn how to draw your signature, insert a scanned version, save it as reusable text, or add one using Adobe Acrobat for a more secure finish.
Can you add a handwritten signature to a Word document?
Simply put, yes — you can add a handwritten signature to a Word document in multiple ways. Microsoft Word offers built-in features that allow you to draw, insert, or upload a signature image directly into your document.
Whether you’re looking for a quick way to e-sign documents digitally or need to add an authentic handwritten signature block, the following methods will help you achieve a polished and professional look.
If your document requires more than just a name and signature, like a full name, title, and date, you can include a complete signature block for a more professional and consistent layout.
How do I draw my signature in Word?
One of the easiest ways to add handwritten signatures to Word is by using the Draw function. This option lets you sign directly within your document using a stylus, trackpad, or mouse.
Below are steps to draw your signature in Word:
- Open your Word document and navigate to the Draw tab.
- Select the Pen/Pencil tool.
- Use your stylus or mouse to draw your signature in the desired spot.
- If needed, adjust the thickness and color of your signature.
- Once satisfied, save your document with the signature included.
This method works best on touch-enabled devices like tablets or laptops with a stylus. It’s one of the most direct approaches for signing documents in Word, especially for quick approvals or form fills. If you don’t have a touchscreen, using a mouse might be a bit tricky, but it is still effective for adding a handwritten signature in Word.
Now that you know how to draw a signature, let’s explore how to add a handwritten signature in Word using an image.
How to add and insert a handwritten signature in Word using an image or AutoText.
If you have a scanned or digital copy of your signature, you can add it to a Word document in one of two ways: you can either insert it as an image or save it as AutoText for quick access later. Both options maintain that handwritten feel without requiring you to redraw your signature every time.
Option 1: Insert a signature image
This method is straightforward if you already have a saved image of your handwritten signature.
- Sign your name on a piece of paper.
- Scan or take a clear photo of your signature.
- Save the image file in a PNG or JPG format.
- Open your Word document and click Insert > Pictures > This Device.
- Resize and position the image as needed on your document.
For a cleaner look, consider removing the background from your signature using an online signature generator before inserting it into Word.
Option 2: Save your signature as AutoText
If you find yourself adding your signature frequently, the Microsoft Word AutoText feature lets you save your signature as a reusable block of content.
Once saved, you can insert your signature with just a few keystrokes, plus you don’t need to upload or reposition the image every time.
To set it up, follow these instructions:
- Type the text you want under an inserted image.
- Select the image and the text.
- On the Insert menu, click AutoText > New.
- In the Create New AutoText box, type a name for the signature block and click OK.
- Put your cursor where you want to insert the signature block.
- From the Insert menu, click AutoText > AutoText, then choose the name of your signature block.
How to use Fill & Sign in Acrobat.
For an extra layer of professionalism and security, exporting your Word document as a PDF and signing it digitally is a great alternative. Acrobat Fill & Sign allows you to add a handwritten signature effortlessly.
This method ensures that your signature remains intact and prevents unauthorized edits to your document. If you need to sign multiple documents regularly, Acrobat e-signing tools can help simplify the process.
Below are steps to sign a Word document in PDF format:
- Open your Word document directly in Acrobat, which will automatically convert it into a PDF. If you don’t have access to Acrobat, you can use the convert Word to PDF tool for a seamless transition.
- From the toolbar, select Fill & Sign.
- Click Sign Yourself. Choose to draw, type, or upload your handwritten signature.
- Drag and drop your signature to the desired location.
- Save the signed PDF.
What’s the best way to add a handwritten signature in Word?
The right method depends on how often you sign documents and the level of security or professionalism you need:
- Draw your signature if you’re signing something quickly and have a touchscreen or stylus.
- Insert a signature image if you want a consistent handwritten look without redrawing every time.
- Use AutoText to save time if you frequently insert the same signature in multiple documents.
- Use the Acrobat Fill & Sign tool for the most secure option, especially for legal, business, or client-facing documents.
Streamline your signing process.
Adding a handwritten signature to a Word document is an easy process with multiple options to fit your needs and preferences. Whether you prefer drawing directly in Word, inserting a signature image, or using Acrobat for enhanced security, you can easily personalize and authenticate your digital documents.
Discover more ways Acrobat can help you manage, sign, and share documents effortlessly, giving you complete control over your digital paperwork.
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