Convert a PDF to Word for free

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Over 41M* files uploaded!
Join millions of users who have successfully converted PDFs to Word files using Acrobat.
*Over an 18-24 month period.

Key takeaways

  • Trustworthy. Secure file conversions and encrypted data transfers mean you can change a PDF to Word with peace of mind.
  • Fast and convenient. Switch between PDFs and Word documents in seconds, directly from your browser.
  • Well reviewed. Millions of people rely on Adobe for file conversions – just check out our reviews.

How to convert a PDF to Word online

Follow our step-by-step guide to convert your PDFs into Microsoft Word (DOCX) files:

https://video.tv.adobe.com/v/3435388?hidetitle=true

  1. Drag and drop your file into the PDF to Word Converter drop box. Or click  Select a file  and upload a PDF from your computer.
  2. Select the PDF you want to convert to Word format.
  3. Acrobat will convert your PDF to an editable Word file in minutes.
  4. Download your new Word document for free. You may be asked to sign in to download it.
  5. Edit and share your Word document as needed.

How to convert a PDF to Word using Microsoft Word.

Our free PDF to Word Converter isn’t the only way to switch between these document types.

Another option is to try opening the PDF file in Microsoft Word directly. This might work if the PDF is text-based and uses simple formatting.

Here’s how to change a PDF to Word using the software itself:

  1. Open your Microsoft Word app.
    Start by clicking on the Word app to open it.

  2. Select the PDF you want to convert to a Word document.

    Go to File > Open. Look for the PDF file that you want to convert to Word. If necessary, select Browse and locate the folder where the file is stored.

  3. Open the PDF.

    Click Open. Word will let you know that it will make a copy of the original file and convert the contents so they can be displayed in Word.

  4. Check your PDF file.

    The PDF will open as a read-only document. Give it a final check to make sure it’s the right file and everything looks correct.

    You can’t make edits yet. But you can change the settings after you’ve saved the file as a Word document.

  5. Save the PDF file as a Word document.

    In the Save menu, select Save As, and choose to save the PDF as a Word document. Select OK.

    Now you can open the file in editing mode and make any necessary edits.

Why convert a PDF to Word?

PDFs are one of the most versatile document file formats. But sometimes you might need to change a PDF to a Word document.

Here’s when you may wish to convert from PDF to Word:

  • You need to make a high volume of text edits.
  • You’re submitting a document through an automated tool that only accepts Microsoft formats. For example, a job application website.
  • You don’t have the source file and need to reuse the information in a PDF.
  • You need to find key information quickly. Converting a PDF to a Word document or vice versa is easy and only takes a few seconds with Adobe Acrobat.

Transform documents with our free PDF to Word converter

Adobe Acrobat makes it easy to convert your PDF files into Word documents. You can use the free PDF to Word Converter on any device, transforming your documents on the go, wherever you are.

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Convert PDFs into editable Word documents

It couldn’t be quicker or easier to convert your PDF files to Word online. Simply drag, drop and download your document in seconds with Adobe Acrobat.

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Preserve quality when converting a PDF to DOCX

Not only is the conversion process incredibly fast, but it maintains the quality of your original PDF file too. When you convert a PDF to DOCX with Adobe, your formatting will remain exactly as expected.

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Edit your Word file for free

Download your converted file for free and easily edit it in Microsoft Word. Alternatively, sign in with your Google or Adobe account to edit your Word document online, also at no cost.

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Download or share your converted file

Once you convert from PDF to Word, you can easily download your new DOCX file with a single click. Alternatively, sign in to your Adobe Acrobat account to share it by email.

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Work online from anywhere

Our free online PDF to Word Converter tool works on all browsers and operating systems, including Google Chrome and Microsoft Edge. Convert a PDF to Word for free on a Mac, Android, iOS, Windows, and Linux. Or use the Acrobat desktop app for offline document conversions.

https://main--dc--adobecom.aem.live/dc-shared/assets/images/shared-images/frictionless/seo-icons/best-pdf.svg | A PDF file ready to be converted to Word

Use the best PDF to Word converter

Get high-quality PDF tools you can trust from Adobe – the creators of the PDF file format. Easily convert PDF to Word with our free PDF conversion tools today.

Questions? We have answers.

How do I convert a PDF to Word doc without losing formatting?
You can convert a PDF to Word doc without losing formatting using Adobe Acrobat Pro, which lets you easily convert PDF files to a range of formats and file types, such as Word, Excel and more. You can easily access PDF editor tools and unlock a world of safety solutions for your sensitive PDF files.
How do I convert a PDF to Word for free?
You can convert a PDF to Word for free using Adobe Acrobat’s online PDF to Word converter. All you have to do is upload your PDF to the online tool and wait for your conversion to complete. You can then download your new Word document and edit or share as required.
How do I convert PDF to Word doc on my phone?
You can convert a PDF to Word doc on your phone using Adobe Acrobat’s free PDF to Word converter from any phone, tablet or PC, regardless of the operating system. Simply open the online tool in your chosen web browser to get started. Once you’ve finished converting your PDF to Word format, you can download and edit it on your device too.
What software do I need to convert from PDF to Word format?
You don't need any software other than a functioning browser to use Adobe Acrobat's free online PDF file conversion tools. Just open the PDF to Word converter on your chosen browser, then select your file and let Acrobat do the rest. You can then sign in to download your new Word document.
Can I convert multiple PDFs to Word at once?
No, at the moment you can’t convert multiple PDF documents to Word at once. Instead, you’ll need to convert each file individually – but you can convert as many files as you need.
Will my converted Word document be secure?
Yes, your converted Word document will be secure as Adobe Acrobat doesn't save any documents unless you're signed in. With top-notch security measures across the site, Adobe ensures your PDF files and conversions are safe. Plus, all data transfers are encrypted, so rest assured all your information will be protected from unauthorised access.
Why is the PDF converted to Word not editable?
The PDF converted into Word isn't editable because it's treated as an image, which requires OCR software to edit. If the original PDF was scanned from a physical document, you’ll need to enable OCR (Optical Character Recognition). This will allow the text to become searchable and selectable once you convert the PDF to Word.
Can I convert my PDF to editable Word files offline?
Yes, you can convert your PDF into editable Word files offline using the Adobe Acrobat Pro desktop app. This allows you to convert PDFs to Word documents for free and edit as desired – no internet connection needed. The original formatting will also be retained, so no need to worry about losing layout, fonts, or images.
Can I convert PDFs into other document formats?
Yes, we offer a range of PDF conversion tools, from PowerPoint to JPGExcel and more. Adobe Acrobat is designed to make it simple to switch between file formats, so you can always structure and edit your work in the most effective way – all while preserving your document quality.
How does Adobe's PDF to Word converter compare to other tools?
Adobe’s PDF to Word converter is known for its various benefits, such as high accuracy and consistent formatting. It offers reliable results, excellent security and advanced features like optical character recognition. Alternative tools may not offer these advantages, and could have limits on usage, file size, and output quality, or sacrifice security measures.
Are there any limitations on file size when converting PDFs to Word?
Yes, file size limits can apply. Adobe’s online converter supports files up to around 200MB, while many free tools impose stricter limits on file size, number of conversions, or pages per document.
How does Adobe ensure document security during conversion?
Adobe helps protect documents during conversion by processing files on secure Adobe cloud servers. Files are handled in accordance with Adobe’s security and privacy practices, and documents are managed through Adobe’s online services to support secure file handling during conversion.
Can I convert scanned PDFs to editable Word documents?
Yes, Adobe Acrobat supports converting scanned PDFs using OCR (Optical Character Recognition). This technology detects text within images, allowing scanned documents to be converted into fully editable Word files with searchable and selectable text.

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