Ohio Notary Practice Exam 2026 - Free Notary Practice Questions and Study Guide

The first step in the procedure to sign by mark is to have the signer make their mark. This action signifies the individual's intention to authenticate the document. A mark can be an "X" or another symbol that serves as a signature when the person is unable to write their name due to various reasons, such as a disability or lack of literacy.

Printing the signer's first name at the signature line is not a step in the signing process itself, but rather a post-signature action if necessary. The actual signing by mark must occur first to establish the signer's consent and intent. Thus, the focus is on ensuring that the mark is made in the presence of the notary or required witnesses to validate the process.