Reading PDFs is convenient, but editing them is difficult. Converting a PDF file to a Word document makes the content editable and allows you to reuse text and images. There are several ways to convert PDF to Word, either free online tools, or paid software.
Online PDF to Word Converters
While free, online PDF to Word converters have some limitations. They can preserve basic text, but images and formatting may not convert perfectly. Some popular online converters include:
•Google Docs - One of the simplest ways to convert PDF to Word online. Just upload your PDF file to Google Drive, right click it and choose "Open with" then select Google Docs. Google will convert the PDF and display it as an editable Word document.
•SmallPDF - This online tool allows you to either upload a PDF file or input a URL of the PDF. SmallPDF then converts it to a DOC or DOCX file which you can immediately download.
•PDF24 - Another online converter that allows you to upload PDFs up to 5MB in size. PDF24 will then convert the file and give you the option to download the resulting Word file.
•Adobe Acrobat - If you have an Adobe account, you can convert PDFs to Word files directly within Acrobat. Just select "Create" then "Word Document" from the menus.
Paid PDF to Word Conversion Software
While online converters are free, paid PDF to Word conversion software tends to preserve formatting and images much better. Two good options are:
•Adobe Acrobat DC - The full version of Acrobat has robust PDF editing tools that can create an editable Word file from a PDF while retaining most formatting and images. Acrobat DC starts at around $13 per month.
•PDFelement - This PDF editor can convert PDFs to Word and preserve text styles, lists, headings, tables, and even images. PDFelement costs $79 for a one time license, and also has a free trial.
Other Ways to Convert PDF to Word
In addition to online converters and PDF editors, here are some other options:
•Microsoft Word - Starting in Word 2019, there is a built-in "Open PDF in Word" feature that attempts to convert PDFs to Word documents while retaining some formatting. However, the conversions can be subpar.
•Copy/Paste - Although time-consuming, you can manually copy text from a PDF and paste it into a blank Word document. This preserves raw text, but loses all formatting.
•OCR - Optical Character Recognition software can "read" text from a PDF's images and convert it to editable text. However, basic OCR is often inaccurate, making this method unreliable.
Tips for Better PDF to Word Conversions
To get the best conversions possible, keep these tips in mind:
•Use paid PDF editing software for best results - These products have the most advanced PDF to Word conversion capabilities.
•Flatten form fields before converting - This ensures form data converts as editable text, not fillable fields.
•Scan for and remove errors after conversion - PDF to Word often misses some text, so proofread the converted document carefully.
•Change fonts after converting - PDFs use proprietary fonts that Word often can't replicate exactly, so change them post-conversion.
•Retain page breaks if possible -Some tools can convert page breaks, making the Word document match the PDF's layout.
In summary, both free online PDF to Word converters and paid PDF editors can help you convert PDF files and edit their content. However, paid tools typically yield more accurate results by preserving formatting, tables, and images. After conversion, proofread the Word document thoroughly and make any needed font changes to achieve the best end result.