How to sign a Google Doc, step-by-step

Signing a document used to mean printing, signing, and scanning — a hassle that’s more “paper age” than “digital age.” While the process has evolved with tools like Google Docs, adding a signature isn’t always apparent to new users. Whether you’re finalizing a work agreement, signing a permission slip, or completing a freelance contract, learning to sign a Google Doc will save you time and frustration.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through three easy methods for adding a signature to Google Docs, plus introduce a bonus tool — Jotform Sign — for streamlined electronic signatures. By the end, you’ll be prepared to handle any digital signature task in Google Docs.

How to insert an electronic signature in Google Docs

There are several ways to add an electronic signature to your Google Docs, ranging from drawing your signature to using third-party tools. Below, we’ll explore three straightforward methods:

1. Insert a drawing of your signature

Google Workspace includes a handy tool called Google Drawing, which you can use to create and customize a digital signature directly in your document. Here’s how:

1. Open your Google Doc and click Insert > Drawing > New.

2. A drawing canvas will appear. Select the Scribble Tool (pen icon) from the toolbar.

3. Draw your signature using your mouse, trackpad, or stylus. Don’t worry about perfection — you can redo it if needed.

4. Once you’re happy with your signature, click Save and Close to add it to your document.

5. You can resize, reposition, or edit your signature by clicking on it and selecting Edit.

2. Drag and drop an image of your signature

If you already have an image of your handwritten signature, you can easily insert it into your Google Doc.

1. In your Google Doc, go to Insert > Image and select the appropriate option to upload your signature image (e.g., Upload from Computer or Drive).

2. Once the image is inserted, click and drag the corners to resize it. Position it wherever you need it in the document.

This method is perfect for maintaining a consistent look for your signature.

3. Use Sign PDF with Jotform Sign

For a seamless electronic signature experience, consider using the Sign PDF with Jotform Sign tool. This Google Workspace add-on lets you sign PDFs without leaving Google Drive.

Here’s how to use it:

1. Navigate to the Jotform Sign PDF page and install the application.

2. Save your Google Doc as a PDF by clicking File > Download > PDF Document.

3. Add your PDF to Google Drive by clicking New and then File Upload.

4. Right-click the file, choose Open with, and select Sign PDF with Jotform Sign.

5. Once opened in Jotform Sign, you can click Signature to add signature boxes for yourself and others who need to sign.

6. Once you’re happy with the placement of the signatures. Click on the Send tab, filling out the details for each signee.

Congratulations, you just sent your document for signature to another party. The Sign PDF with Jotform Sign add-on makes signing documents quick and professional. For more details, check out this Jotform Sign article.

Four compelling reasons to use Jotform Sign

If you’re tired of manually inserting your signature into Google Docs, Jotform Sign offers a professional alternative. Designed for individuals and businesses, it streamlines the signing process and adds flexibility for handling multiple signers.

1. Automate your signing process

With Jotform Sign, you can go beyond simply signing Google Docs — you can automate the entire process. While Google Docs includes a built-in eSignature tool for signing documents, Jotform Sign takes it further by allowing you to assign signatures to specific people. It’s as easy as uploading your document to Jotform Sign or using one of the 700+ customizable Sign templates available.

2. Versatile and business-friendly

Jotform Sign is designed to meet the needs of businesses of all sizes, with features that enhance both productivity and usability:

• Cloud storage integrations: Automatically save signed documents in your preferred cloud storage solution, such as Google Drive, using Jotform’s integration tools. Jotform also supports Zapier integrations for advanced workflows.
• Drag-and-drop simplicity: Create and customize documents easily with an intuitive drag-and-drop builder.
• Business-ready templates: Choose from hundreds of templates tailored for industries like real estate, healthcare, and education.

3. Reporting and insights

Keep track of your signed documents and streamline your data management with Jotform’s additional tools:

• Tables: Organize your submissions in a spreadsheet-style view.
• Report Builder: Generate professional reports to gain insights into your document workflow.

4. Reliable support and accessibility

No matter when you need help, Jotform Sign offers 24/7 customer support to assist with any issues or questions. Jotform Sign empowers you to simplify your signature workflows, collaborate with others, and integrate your signed documents into broader processes — all while saving time and effort. Browse our library to find a template that fits your needs today.

Photo by Anna Shvets