How to Create an Electronic Signature - Complete Guide

An electronic signature (or e-signature) is a digital way to sign documents without printing or scanning. In this guide, you'll learn multiple ways to create your own electronic signature that's professional and legally binding.

What is an Electronic Signature?

An electronic signature is any electronic symbol, sound, or process attached to a document that indicates intent to sign. It can be as simple as typing your name or as complex as a cryptographic digital signature.

3 Ways to Create an Electronic Signature

Method 1: Type Your Signature

The quickest way to create an e-signature:

Go to Signatly's Signature Creator
Type your name in the text box
Choose from multiple signature font styles
Adjust the size and color if desired
Download or use directly on documents

Best for: Professional documents, quick signing, consistent appearance

Method 2: Draw Your Signature

Create a more personal, handwritten-style signature:

Go to Signatly's Signature Creator
Select the "Draw" option
Use your mouse, trackpad, or finger to draw
Clear and retry if needed
Save when you're happy with it

Best for: Personal touch, documents requiring handwritten signatures

Method 3: Upload Your Signature

Use an image of your real handwritten signature:

Sign your name on white paper with a dark pen
Take a photo or scan the signature
Upload the image to Signatly
The background is automatically made transparent
Use your authentic signature digitally

Best for: Authentic appearance, matching existing signed documents

Tips for Creating a Professional E-Signature

Keep it simple: Legible signatures are more professional
Use dark colors: Black or dark blue are standard
Be consistent: Use the same signature style across documents
Save your signature: Create once and reuse for efficiency
Include initials: Create matching initials for multi-page documents

Are Electronic Signatures Legal?

Yes! Electronic signatures are legally binding in most countries:

United States: ESIGN Act (2000) and UETA
European Union: eIDAS Regulation
United Kingdom: Electronic Communications Act 2000
Canada: PIPEDA and provincial laws
Australia: Electronic Transactions Act 1999

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Electronic vs Digital Signatures

People often confuse these terms:

Electronic signature: Any electronic indication of intent to sign (typed name, drawn signature, clicked checkbox)
Digital signature: A specific type using cryptographic certificates for enhanced security and verification

For most business purposes, electronic signatures are sufficient and legally binding.