Learn how to sign documents on your reMarkable 2 in order to decrease your use of paper as well as remain effective while on the move. I’ve signed NDAs and other documents from the back of an Uber while on the way to/from airports.
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Why be interested in this guide?
I’ve been using the reMarkable 2 for over three years and am constantly looking for ways to optimize my workflow. I use the reMarkable for my business life, as well as for managing my busy family and for doing research for this blog.
What is the reMarkable 2 paper tablet?
The reMarkable 2 is the second generation device from reMarkable that pairs e-ink and an EMR stylusto provide a paper-like writing experience. The device uses WiFi to backup and sync documents with a secure Google Cloud-basedConnect platform. This allows users to take almost limitless notes in it’s native Notebook format, as well as on PDFs and ePUBs (e-readers). Additionally, the tablet pairs with the Type Folio to provide a distraction free typing experience.
Why would you use the reMarkable 2 for signatures?
For folks that don’t want to print out documents just to hand sign, the reMarkable 2 is a perfect complement to a paperless office.
- During business travel (when away from a printer)
- On vacation
- Remote workers
- Remove the need to print, sign, scan, and destroy
Guide for how to use reMarkable 2 to sign documents
Learn how to use your reMarkable 2 paper tablet to sign documents while on the move.
Step 1 – Convert document to PDF format
The reMarkable needs the document to be in PDF format (also works in EPUB and notebook). If your document to be signed isn’t already in PDF, you’ll need to convert it. Similar to our process for converting a PowerPoint presentation to PDF, this can be done through the Export or Print To functions in MS Office. Save the document somewhere easy to find, as you’ll need this file for the next step.
Step 2 – Send document to reMarkable Connect
The next step is to send the document to your reMarkable Connect account. This can be done through either the Connect website or through the reMarkable desktop application (Mac or Windows).
App – just drag your document onto the App and they’ll sync into that location
Connect Website – login to the Connect Platform and then scroll to the bottom of the page to find the “drop zone.” You can drag your files onto this location and they’ll sync to your main screen of your reMarkable.
Step 3 – Sync reMarkable to download document
Now that your file is in the Cloud, you need to get it onto your reMarkable 2 tablet. To do this, first connect to WiFi (guide on reMarkable WiFi connections here).
If your device is having issues (and you’ve verified that you’re on a good WiFi connection), you can navigate to Settings >> Storage >> Check Sync
At this point, your document should be on the main page of your reMarkable (or in the folder that you specified).
Step 4 – Perform signature on reMarkable 2
Once you have the document open, select the writing tool you’d like to use. I’m a big fan of Ballpoint or Finepoint for signatures. If you’d like to bring some emphasis to your signature, you could select a color other than black.
Navigate to the signature block and John Hancock (so to speak) the document.
Step 5 – Retrieve signed document
Now that your document is signed, you need to get it back to transmit it to the counter party. There are a couple options for this, but all require a WiFi connection:
- Download your signed file from Desktop or Mobile app – If you’re on the Mobile app, you can click the “Share” icon and then open the other app that you’d like to use to share the document (e.g., Gmail or Outlook),
- Email the file to yourself (or others) – open the side menu, select the “Share”icon, then “Send by email.” If your document is more than one page, make sure you send all of the pages when you email it. The email will be sent as a PDF.
Unfortunately you can’t actually download the signed version from the Connect Website (though this is on our list of desired improvements)
Legality of signing documents through an electronic capture
In general, documents that have been signed with a stylus are still considered legal signatures (at least in the United States, per FDA regulations). This stems from 21 CFR Part 11, which states “Handwritten signature means the scripted name or legal mark of an individual handwritten by that individual and executed or adopted with the present intention to authenticate a writing in a permanent form. The act of signing with a writing or marking instrument such as a pen or stylus is preserved. The scripted name or legal mark, while conventionally applied to paper, may also be applied to other devices that capture the name or mark.”
While this blog isn’t intended to be legal advice, I’ve used my reMarkable many times to sign NDAs or other legal documents. The only time I’ve had issues is when the counter party required a “wet” signature (meaning signed with ink).
Below are a couple resources to dive deeper into the legality of digitally captured signatures:
