If the signer's middle name is spelled out on the instrument, the notary should spell it out in the acknowledgment and make sure that the party signs the person's full name _________ as it appears on the document.

• A. appears
• B. exactly
• C. correctly
• D. fully

Answer: (A)

Understanding how names are shown ties directly to reliable identification. When the middle name is spelled out on the instrument, the acknowledgment should reflect that exact form by having the signer sign the full name as it appears on the document. The word that fits best communicates this precise alignment: the signer signs the full name as it appears, ensuring the signature matches the document’s written form. Saying “exactly” would imply a nuance of spacing or punctuation beyond what's needed, and “correctly” or “fully” don’t specifically convey signing the name in the same form as on the instrument. For example, if the document lists “John Michael Smith,” the signer should sign “John Michael Smith” in the acknowledgment.