How to Convert PDF to Word (and Word to PDF) for Free
PDFs are great for sharing, but hard to edit. Word documents are easy to edit, but may look different on other computers. Converting between them is simple and free.
Word to PDF
- Microsoft Word: File → Save As → choose PDF. Or File → Export → Create PDF.
- Google Docs: File → Download → PDF Document.
- Any Windows app: Print → choose Microsoft Print to PDF.
- Phone: in Word or Google Docs apps, use Share/Export as PDF.
PDF to Word with Microsoft Word
Open Word, then File → Open and choose the PDF. Word converts it into an editable document. Complex layouts may shift, so check formatting.
PDF to Word with Google Drive
- Upload the PDF to Google Drive.
- Right-click → Open with → Google Docs.
- Edit, then File → Download → Microsoft Word (.docx).
This also works on scanned PDFs, since Google uses text recognition (OCR), though accuracy varies.
Online converters: be careful
Many websites convert PDFs, but you upload your document to their servers. Avoid uploading sensitive files like ID cards, bank statements or contracts to unknown sites. Prefer Word, Google Drive or reputable services.
Scanned PDFs
If a PDF is a scan (an image of text), you need OCR. Google Docs, Microsoft Word, and Microsoft Lens or Google Lens apps can extract text from images.
Just need small edits?
Instead of converting, use a PDF editor. Microsoft Edge can add text, highlight and draw on PDFs. Many phone PDF apps let you fill forms and sign.
Reduce PDF size
When a PDF is too big to email or upload, save with a smaller image quality or use a compression option in your PDF software. Compressing images first also helps; see reducing image file size.
Converting on your phone
- Microsoft Word app: open a PDF in Word on your phone to convert it to an editable document (sign-in required).
- Google Drive app: upload the PDF, then open it on a computer with Google Docs for conversion.
- Save as PDF: in most document apps, use Share → Print → pinch outward on the preview (iPhone) or choose "Save as PDF" (Android) to create a PDF.
Fixing formatting after conversion
- Text in boxes: Word may convert layouts into text boxes. Copy text into a new document with normal paragraphs if editing is difficult.
- Fonts: if the original font isn't on your computer, Word substitutes a similar one. Choose a standard font for the whole document.
- Tables: check that rows and columns are aligned; adjust table borders and widths.
- Page breaks: remove extra blank pages by showing formatting marks (Ctrl + Shift + 8) and deleting stray breaks.
When to send PDF vs Word
| Send PDF when... | Send Word when... |
|---|---|
| Applying for jobs (CV, cover letter) | Someone needs to edit the document |
| Sharing final reports and invoices | Collaborating on drafts |
| Layout must look the same everywhere | A form requires a Word template |
Frequently asked questions
Why does the converted document look different?
PDFs store exact layouts; Word reflows text. Tables and columns often need adjusting.
Can I merge PDFs?
Yes, with PDF tools. On Mac, Preview can combine PDFs; on Windows, use a reputable PDF app.
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