How to sign a PDF in Adobe Reader? [2023]
Jackson Kustec
jackson@macro.com
As a corporate professional, you’re familiar with contracts and agreements.
When it’s time to sign important documents on your own, Adobe Reader is probably your go-to tool. However, using the tool isn't always sunshine and rainbows.
And there are now better alternatives.
In this article, you'll get a step-by-step guide on how to sign a PDF in Adobe Reader, as well as a modern option to sign your documents.
How to digitally sign a PDF in Adobe Reader?
Signing a PDF in Adobe Reader doesn't have to be a head-scratcher. It's all about simplicity and speed.
Now, let's see how to sign a PDF in Adobe Reader. But here's a quick secret – if you're open to exploring a more streamlined option, I'll introduce you to Macro (disclaimer: this is our tool).
Macro is a one-stop shop for all your PDF needs. So, whether you're sticking with Adobe Reader or ready to try something new, I've got you covered below 👇
Step #1. Open the PDF document in Adobe Reader
To start, open the Adobe Reader app and click “Open File.”
Select the PDF you want to sign and click on “Open.”
Step #2. Click on “Fill and Sign”
After opening the PDF in Adobe Reader, click “Sign” on the taskbar.
Alternatively, select “All Tools” and choose “Fill & Sign.” This icon is recognizable by its pen-and-paper design.
After clicking on this icon, Adobe Reader will open a window panel where you can manage your signature.
Step #3. Create your digital signature
To electronically sign the PDF, you need to create your digital signature. Adobe Reader makes it simple to do this by providing the necessary tools.
You can do this by choosing either to “Add signature” or “Add initials.”
Note: They are displayed as options if you have already added signatures or initials.
You can select from the Sign options, then click on the area in the PDF where you want to add your signature.
However, if you're signing for the first time, you'll see the Signature or Initials panel. The image below shows the Signature panel.
You can also choose between several methods, including drawing or uploading an image of your signature. Added signatures and initials are saved for future use.
- Type: Type your name in the field. You can choose from a small selection of signature styles; click “Change Style” to view a different style.
- Draw: Draw your signature in the field.
- Image: Upload a photo of your signature to your computer.
- Save signature: When this box is checked, and you're signed in to Acrobat Reader or Acrobat, the added signature is securely saved in Adobe Cloud for reuse.
Click “Apply” , then click on the spot where you want to place the initial or signature in the PDF.
Step #4. Position your signature
After creating your signature, position it on the PDF where you want it to appear. You can do this by dragging and dropping your signature or clicking on where you wish it to appear on the document.
This ensures your signature is located in the correct area of the PDF.
Note: To move the positioned signature or initial, click the field to highlight it, and then use the arrow keys on your computer. Use the options in the field toolbar to resize or delete the field. See the field toolbar displayed in the image below.
Step #5. Save and finalize your signature
Regardless of the method you use to create your digital signature, saving the signature or initials after creating it is essential.
After saving your digital signature, Adobe Reader will automatically insert it into the PDF. Before finalizing it, you can preview and ensure your signature is correctly placed.
After checking that your signature is correct, you can save your document.
Adobe Reader also provides several options for sharing documents, such as emailing them to recipients, uploading them to cloud storage services, or saving a copy on your computer.
Plus, you have the option to print your signed document if desired.
What are the drawbacks of using Adobe for signing PDFs?
While Adobe Reader is a handy tool for signing PDFs, it has drawbacks. The software can be complex for beginners, with them being overwhelmed by all the features at first glance.
Some users report that it also lags and crashes when working with large numbers of PDFs.
The premium features (like signing a PDF and advanced editing) come at a price that’s not feasible for those on a tight budget. Weighing the pros and cons before deciding on a tool for signing your PDFs is always a smart move!
Drawback #1. Complex interface
Adobe Reader's interface lacks user-friendliness. Despite paying for and having access to the powerful features, navigating through them is a challenge.
Here's the reason 👇
Adobe Reader's interface has become inconsistent as the platform’s expanded over the years. Features are piled on each other like puzzle pieces, resulting in a complex interface for end-users.
Imagine searching for the right button to sign your PDF digitally. It can be time-consuming and frustrating. And let's face it, your time is precious.
Drawback #2. Slows down when loading large PDFs
Adobe Reader can't always handle large PDFs (more than 100 pages). The loading time for these PDFs is long, and sometimes the software stops responding.
Drawback #3. Adobe Reader is costly and subscription management is a pain
Fact: Adobe Reader isn't cheap.
Adobe Reader is today's powerful, versatile, feature-rich PDF viewing and editing tool. However, to digitally sign a PDF, you'll need to purchase the paid version of the tool.
Acrobat Pro costs $19.99 per month for a one-year commitment, or $239.88 per year if paid upfront for the year. Regardless of the payment method, it's equally expensive compared to other premium PDF-related tools.
Cost aside, dealing with Adobe products comes with pain, like being required to download multiple apps on your computer, or taking too much memory on your devices.
Our two cents 👇
There is very little that can be done without paying for Acrobat Pro , and not everyone is willing to pay to sign a PDF.
Sign PDFs with ease with Macro.
Macro is an intuitive and efficient PDF editor, enabling you to quickly sign PDFs. It's the perfect, all-in-one PDF solution for editing, reviewing, and signing PDFs digitally without any hassle.
Here's how to sign a PDF in Macro 👇
Step #1. Open the PDF in Macro
Once logged in to Macro, click “Open a PDF or DOCX file.”
Select the PDF you want to edit and click “Open.”
Step #2. Signing a PDF in Macro
After opening the PDF in Macro, you'll see a series of icons in the top left corner of your Macro editor workspace.
When you click on the editing icon, you'll see a breakdown of its elements:
These elements comprise the general editing features, especially for adding signatures to your PDF.
Step #3 Click on “Signature”
Start signing your PDF by clicking on “Signature.”
Step #4 Create your digital signature
To sign the PDF, you need to create your digital signature. When you click on any part of the PDF where you want your signature, Macro opens up a box that enables you to draw or type your signature.
Click “Sign” to apply your signature to the PDF.
Step #5 Position your signature
After creating your signature, position it on the PDF where you want it to appear.
You can do this by dragging and dropping the signature in the position you want it to appear on the document.
Additionally, you can expand or reduce your signature’s size to ensure it’s placed in correctly on the PDF.
Note: You can delete or create a new signature by replacing the old one.
Read and edit documents faster with Macro.
There's no doubt that you can sign a PDF with Adobe Reader. But its price, complex interface, and inability to support large PDFs made us search for a new tool for seamless digital signing.
Short on time? Try Macro.
Macro doesn't just let you sign PDFs; it's a free-to-use, all-in-one PDF and Word document editor with a sleek, modern interface.
If you deal with PDFs frequently, you do more than just sign PDFs.
Download the Macro app for free and start getting PDF work done 10x faster.