You have a PDF that needs a signature. The old way is print, sign, scan, and hope the file still looks professional. The faster way is to add signature fields online, send one link, verify who signed, and keep a record of what they read before they inked. This guide walks every method people use, what each one misses, and the workflow that keeps read proof and signature on the same file.
Ways people add a signature to a PDF
Why a pasted image is not enough
Dropping a PNG of your signature onto a PDF looks signed. It proves nothing later. Anyone can copy the image. There is no timestamp, no identity check, and no link between the signer and the exact file version. For NDAs, leases, and client contracts, you need fields, identity, and a sealed record.
Add signature fields in the browser
Upload the PDF, drag fields where they belong, and send a link. Typical field types: signature, initials, date, and text for printed name or title. Mako can suggest placements on common templates. Signers open the link on phone or desktop, verify with a one-time email code, and sign without creating an account.
Signature: drawn, typed, or uploaded image inside a locked field
Date: auto-filled or signer-picked, tied to the audit trail
Initials: for multi-page contracts where each section needs acknowledgment
Text: name, title, or company line for formal agreements
Route one signer or many
Sequential routing sends the link to signer two only after signer one finishes. Use that for approvals that must happen in order. Parallel routing lets everyone sign at once. Both modes keep events on one envelope so the audit trail stays linear.
Read proof before they sign
When someone says they signed without reading, you want page-level proof. A tracked link records opens, time on each page, and scroll depth. Pair that with signature fields on the same file and you have one story: they saw the terms, then they signed.
Saudi Arabia and the Gulf: what to know
Electronic signatures are recognized for many commercial agreements when intent, consent, and a reliable record exist. For Saudi-specific context, see our legality guide. This article focuses on workflow: fields, identity, and audit trail on everyday contracts, not government notary flows.
Arabic PDFs and RTL layouts
Arabic contracts often mix RTL body text with LTR numbers and clause references. Place signature blocks on the signature page, not over dense paragraphs. Preview on mobile before send; most Gulf signers open links on phone first.
Free plan: start without a card
Docshark free tier includes 20 documents and 10 signatures per month. Enough for NDAs, one-off client agreements, and rental addenda. Upgrade when volume grows; your templates and audit history stay.
