How to Add a Signature to a Word Document

You can add a signature to letters and other documents created in Microsoft Word without having to print them out and sign them manually. Word allows you to insert an image of your signature directly into documents. Although you can purchase digital signature software to add your signature to a Word document, an easy way to do it without special software is by using a scanner.

Things You'll Need

• Scanner
• Blank white paper

Instructions

1. Sign your name on a blank sheet of white paper, making sure you sign legibly.

2. Scan the paper containing your signature, choosing a dot per inch (DPI) setting no smaller than 300. Since DPI affects the quality of scanned images, it is important not to choose a low DPI.

3. Save the scanned signature in a Word-compatible format in a folder on your computer. Word-compatible formats include the Graphics File Format (GIF), Tagged Image File Format (TIFF) and Bit Map Picture (BMP). Check the image to make sure the screen quality of your signature is correct.

4. Put your cursor on the place in your Word document where you want to add your signature. Click on "Insert" from the Word menu, select "Picture" and choose "From File."

5. A dialog box will appear, allowing you to find the signature image file on your computer. Select the file to add your signature to your Word document.

References

• USCourts.gov: Adding Signature to Microsoft Word Documents
• PC Magazine: Insert a Signature in Microsoft Word

Resources

• Silanis.com: Digital Signature and Electronic Signature