# Sign PDF for authors

_Updated July 2026 · Arthize · https://arthize.com/for/authors/sign-pdf_

Arthize lets authors and self-publishers sign a PDF in a private workspace — free, with no watermark. Signing a PDF lets you draw, type or add a digital signature and fill form fields, so you never print, sign and rescan a document again.

## Why authors sign a PDF

An author merges manuscript chapters into one file, resizes the pages to the print trim size, and exports a clean, watermark-free PDF for the printer.

**Built for manuscripts.** Whether it's manuscripts, proofs, cover files, Arthize's sign pdf keeps the work inside your private workspace. Unpublished manuscripts are valuable IP; private processing keeps them off public servers.

## What matters when you sign a PDF

A clear electronic signature is legally valid for everyday agreements in most countries.

Cryptographic digital signatures bind the signature to the document for higher assurance.

You can fill form fields and sign in the same tool without printing.

## How to sign a PDF

1. **Open the sign tool** — Sign in and open the sign-and-fill tool.
2. **Create your signature** — Draw it, type it in a signature font, or use a digital certificate.
3. **Place it and fill the form** — Drop the signature where it belongs and fill any fields, dates or checkboxes.
4. **Download the signed PDF** — Save the signed document with no watermark.

## FAQ

### How do authors sign a PDF for free?

Signing a PDF lets you draw, type or add a digital signature and fill form fields, so you never print, sign and rescan a document again. On Arthize it's free with no watermark, and the file is deleted after the job — which is why authors and self-publishers can use it for manuscripts without a confidentiality risk.

### Is it private to sign a PDF sensitive manuscripts?

Yes. Unpublished manuscripts are valuable IP; private processing keeps them off public servers. Files are processed inside your private Arthize workspace and deleted after the job.

### How do I sign a PDF online for free?

Signing a PDF lets you draw, type or add a digital signature and fill form fields, so you never print, sign and rescan a document again. On Arthize it's free with no watermark and processed privately.

### Is an electronic signature on a PDF legally valid?

Signing a PDF lets you draw, type or add a digital signature and fill form fields, so you never print, sign and rescan a document again. On Arthize it's free with no watermark and processed privately.