How-to
How to convert a DOCX to PDF, text, HTML, RTF and ODT
The short answer
Open the file in Wrdio's editor on a computer and use File, Export to choose a format: PDF, DOCX, ODT, RTF, HTML, Markdown, LaTeX, plain text or a page image. Pick PDF for fixed layout, plain text for the words only, and ODT or RTF for older programs.
The format you save in decides who can open the file and how it looks when they do. You might need a PDF for a form, plain text for a website, or an older format for a program that is still on someone's desk. Here is how to choose, and how to get each one.
How to export in Wrdio
- Drop your .docx onto the home page and press Edit.
- On a computer choose File, then Export.
- Pick the format. The browser downloads the file.
On a phone, the File menu offers Share as DOCX and Share as PDF only. The other formats are on a computer.
Which format for which job
| Format | Good for | What you lose |
|---|---|---|
| Sending a fixed, printable copy | Easy editing | |
| DOCX | Sharing an editable document | Nothing, if the other person has a compatible program |
| ODT | LibreOffice and other open programs | A few Word-only features |
| RTF | Very old or very simple programs | Some layout and features |
| HTML (web page) | Putting text on a website | Page layout and page numbers |
| Markdown | Notes and developer tools | Fonts, colours, page layout |
| Plain text | Just the words | All formatting |
| Page image | A picture of a page | Everything editable |
Tips for each
- PDF. Scroll through every page afterwards. See saving as PDF without breaking it.
- ODT. A good choice when the other person uses LibreOffice.
- HTML. Check pictures and links, since they may need separate hosting.
- Markdown. See Word to Markdown, and back again.
- Plain text. Good for pasting into forms. Lists become lines of text.
What about the old DOC format?
Wrdio exports DOCX, not DOC. If someone insists on DOC, open the DOCX in LibreOffice or Word and save it as DOC there. Most people can open DOCX today, so it is worth asking first. See DOCX vs DOC.
A rule that saves trouble. Always keep the original DOCX. Converted copies are for sharing, and the DOCX is where you edit.
Questions people ask
How do I convert a DOCX file to another format?
Open it in an editor that exports to other formats, such as Wrdio on a computer, and choose File, Export, then the format.
Which format is best for sharing?
PDF for a fixed layout. DOCX if the person needs to edit. Plain text if only the words matter.
Can I convert a DOCX to HTML?
Yes, with File, Export, Web page. The result is a simple page you can open in a browser.
Will formatting survive the conversion?
Some formats keep most of it, such as ODT. Plain text and Markdown drop layout, fonts and colours.