Frequently Asked Questions
Practical answers for preparing exam photos and signatures correctly.
Photo Resizing & Privacy
Is my photo uploaded to a server?
No. Cropping, resizing, and compression all happen in your browser using the Canvas API. The file never leaves your device.
Why do different exams need different sizes?
Each exam body sets its own portal validation rules independently — there's no shared standard across UPSC, SSC, banking, and state PSCs.
My output is still slightly over the KB limit — what do I do?
Try a plainer background or better lighting in the source photo; heavily detailed backgrounds compress less efficiently at a given quality level.
Can I use a photo I already have on my phone?
Yes, as long as it meets the framing rules (front-facing, plain background) — the tool handles the technical crop/resize/compress.
What if my exam isn't listed?
Use Resize Image in KB and enter the pixel size and KB limit from your notification. It is linked from the "Can't find your exam?" section on the Tools page.
Can I print my name and date on the photo?
Yes. Exam pages that need it show a "Print name & date on photo" option, and the Add Name & Date on Photo tool works for any size. The date is printed as DD/MM/YYYY in a white strip below the photo or over its bottom edge.
Why JPG and not PNG?
Almost every exam portal requires JPG specifically; PNG or HEIC uploads (common from iPhones) are auto-converted.
Is this free?
Yes, no account or payment required. KbSnap is a free tool for all candidates.
Signature Requirements
Why was my signature rejected before?
The most common reasons: signed in block/capital letters instead of your normal running signature, or a visibly ruled/lined paper background.
What ink color should I use?
Use the colour your notification names. Many recruitment notifications, including IBPS, ask for black ink; others, such as GATE, accept black or dark blue. If yours does not say, black is the safest choice.
Does my signature need to match my ID proof?
Yes — use the same signature style you'd use on a bank form or ID document, not a stylized alternate signature.
Can I sign digitally with a stylus/trackpad instead of on paper?
Most portals expect a photographed/scanned handwritten signature; a trackpad-drawn signature can look noticeably different in stroke weight and may raise verification flags later.
My signature looks too thin/thick after compressing — why?
A fine ballpoint or gel pen (0.5-0.7mm) scans and compresses more cleanly than a thick marker.
What if I don't have a scanner?
A phone photo works fine; make sure the paper is flat, evenly lit, and the signature is the only thing in frame.