Add simple text to a PDF
Open the document, select the Text tool, type what you need, and click the page to place it. You can then move the text, adjust its width, and tweak basic font settings before exporting. It’s ideal for adding names, dates, short answers, reference numbers, and other small bits of text that sit on top of an existing PDF page.
It’s worth noting that this is different from rewriting the PDF’s original text. The Online edition simply adds new text objects, it isn’t a full word-processor-style editor for changing every existing sentence in any PDF. That broader editing workflow is available in WhatPDF Full Edition.
Draw a signature directly in the browser
The signature pad lets you draw with a mouse, trackpad, stylus, or touch. You can adjust the ink colour and line thickness, then place the signature on the PDF page. Once it’s there, move it into position and resize it so it fits the signature line.
If you already have a signature image, the WhatPDF editor supports placing that image as part of the same workflow.
Why only Texts and Signatures?
The Online edition is built for quick (urgent) task like signing. Features like image insertion, hyperlinks, page numbering, visual erasing, and other advanced Edit & Sign tools are part of WhatPDF Full Edition.
Signing a PDF privately
Signed PDFs can include names, addresses, employment details, financial information, and other personal material. For the free signing workflow, WhatPDF is designed to process the document content right in the browser rather than deliberately uploading the PDF to UsefulKits for editing.
Before you send the signed PDF
Open the exported file and check the signature at normal zoom. Make sure it hasn’t covered any nearby text, that the name and date are correct, and that you signed the right page. Keep the unsigned original until the recipient has accepted the document. If the PDF has several signature fields, handle them one at a time rather than assuming every page uses the same position.
Edit & Sign versus Markup
Use Edit & Sign for text and signatures that should look like part of the completed document. Use Markup when you are reviewing a PDF and want highlights, underlines, strikeouts, freehand drawing or shapes. The tools can look similar on screen, but they solve different jobs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I type onto a PDF in WhatPDF Online?
Yes. The free editor supports simple text placement on PDF pages.
Can I draw my signature?
Yes. The signature pad supports pointer and touch input, with basic ink and line-thickness controls.
Is this a certificate-based digital signature?
No. The Online signing workflow places a visible signature. It should not be treated as a substitute for a required cryptographic or certificate-based signature.
Can I edit the original text already inside the PDF?
The free Online edition focuses on adding text and signatures. Advanced editing belongs to WhatPDF Full Edition.