Requests are commonly received for a forensic document examiner to compare a simulated or traced signature with writing samples of the purported ‘forger’. The expectation is to confirm a suspected writer was responsible for the simulation or traced signature. The reality is a well simulated signature, or tracing, rarely contains identifying features of the writer.

In the writer’s attempt to successfully replicate another persons’ signature, they attempt to discard their own handwriting profile. However, rushed or poorly executed simulations may yield some evidence of the writer if they inadvertently include their own natural writing features. Tracings rarely would offer that opportunity.

Extended writing, such as anonymous notes, offers a greater likelihood of the writer including their own writing traits.