How to Solve Common eSignature Challenges in PDFs

Electronic signatures have become a daily necessity - whether you’re approving contracts, onboarding new clients, or simply signing off internal forms. But for many, the process of signing PDFs online is still frustratingly complex. From formatting issues to clunky tools, there’s no shortage of friction.

Here’s a breakdown of the most common challenges users face when trying to sign a PDF online, and how you can overcome them quickly - without installing software or creating an account.

1. “I just want to sign a PDF - why is it so complicated?”

One of the biggest pain points people encounter is simply the overwhelming number of steps required by many platforms. You might be asked to create an account, confirm your email, upload a file, then go through a multi-step editor - just to add a single signature.

The fix

Look for tools that offer instant digital signing with a clear, single-step workflow. At Docutonic, for example, you can upload your PDF, create your digital signature, and download the signed file - all in under a minute.

2. Creating a digital signature that actually looks right

Users often struggle to create a digital signature that appears natural and fits correctly within the document. Whether you’re drawing with a mouse or uploading a scanned signature, formatting issues can make your signed PDF look unprofessional.

The fix

Use tools that provide real-time preview and flexible placement. This allows you to drag and drop your signature, resize it, and apply it exactly where you want - no guesswork, no frustration.

3. Compatibility issues across devices

Many traditional PDF editors don’t play well with mobile browsers or certain operating systems. Trying to sign a PDF online from your phone can lead to errors, frozen pages, or lost progress.

The fix

Use a lightweight, browser-based tool that’s optimized for all major devices. A good rule of thumb: if it loads instantly on your mobile browser and requires no download, you’re in good hands.

4. Merging multiple signed documents

Sometimes, you don’t just need to sign a PDF - you also need to combine several signed pages into one. This is where many users hit a wall, juggling multiple tools just to finalize a document.

The fix

Use an integrated tool that allows both signing and merging PDFs in the same session. That way, your entire workflow - from signature to compilation - happens in one place.

5. Security and trust concerns

Many people are wary of uploading personal documents to unknown platforms. And rightly so - your signature is legally binding, and your documents may contain sensitive data.

The fix

Use platforms that don’t require sign-up, don’t store your files, and offer secure document handling. Look for clear privacy policies and indications that files are deleted after processing.

Conclusion

Signing a PDF online shouldn’t feel like filling out a tax form. It should be instant, intuitive, and secure.

Whether you need to create a digital signature, merge signed PDFs, or just sign a PDF online, modern tools like Docutonic are designed to simplify the process - no accounts, no software, no delays.

→ Try it out for free

Stay tuned - we’re building more tools to make working with documents feel as smooth as it should.