1. Oath: An oath is a solemn pledge or promise made by an individual to tell the truth. When administering an oath, the notary asks the individual to place their hand on a religious text, such as a Bible, or raise their hand, and then recite or affirm the oath.

2. Affirmation: An affirmation is similar to an oath but does not involve a religious element. Instead of swearing on a religious text, the individual affirms or declares that the statement they are making is true. This option is often chosen by individuals who do not wish to make a religious oath or who do not adhere to a specific religious belief.

3. Purpose: The purpose of administering oaths and affirmations is to ensure the integrity and truthfulness of legal documents and statements. By taking an oath or affirmation, the individual acknowledges their legal obligation to provide truthful information and understands the potential consequences of making false statements.

4. Notary’s Role: As a neutral and impartial official, the notary public oversees the administration of oaths and affirmations. They verify the identity of the individual taking the oath, ensure that the individual understands the nature of the oath or affirmation, and then witness the individual’s declaration.

5. Documentation: After administering the oath or affirmation, the notary typically completes a certificate or jurat stating that the individual appeared before them, took the oath or affirmation, and signed the document in their presence. This certificate serves as evidence that the individual’s statement or signature was made under oath or affirmation and is legally valid.

Overall, administering oaths and affirmations is a crucial aspect of the notary public’s role in upholding the integrity of legal documents and affirming the truthfulness of statements made by individuals.