How to Convert PDF to Word With Google Docs

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PDF or Portable Document Format is widely used for sharing and distributing documents across different platforms. However, sometimes we need to edit the PDF files for modification or make a copy to send through another medium. This is where converting PDF files to other formats such as Word becomes necessary. Converting PDF to Word makes it easier to edit and reformat the same content. While there are several software available for converting PDF to Word, using Google Docs is one of the most convenient options as it is free and easily accessible.

Video Tutorial:

What’s Needed

To convert PDF to Word using Google Docs, you will need to have access to:

  • A PDF file that you want to convert to Word
  • A Google account with Google Docs access
  • Internet access

What Should I Pay Attention to?

Before you start the process of converting PDF to Word, there are a few things to keep in mind:

  • The formatting of the original PDF file may not be retained during the conversion process
  • Complex images, tables, and graphs may not be converted properly and might need to be recreated manually
  • Google Docs may not be suitable if the PDF file contains confidential information as it is stored on Google Drive

Method 1: Upload and Convert

To convert PDF to Word using Google Docs, follow the steps below:

  1. Go to Google Drive and log in with your Google account details.
  2. Click the New button located at the top left corner of the screen and select the File Upload option from the dropdown list.
  3. Select the PDF file that you want to convert and click Open. The PDF file will now be uploaded to Google Drive.
  4. Once the upload is complete, right-click on the PDF file and select Open with Google Docs from the dropdown list.
  5. Google Docs will open the converted Word file with the same name as the PDF file. Click File and select Download from the dropdown list. Then choose the format that you want to download the file in, for example, Microsoft Word (.docx).

Pros

  • Free to use
  • Retains the original layout of the document in most cases

Cons

  • May not support complex images, tables, and graphs
  • The formatting may be slightly altered during the conversion process

Method 2: Copy and Paste

Another method to convert PDF to Word using Google Docs is by copying and pasting. However, this method is only recommended for documents with less formatting and fewer pages.

  1. Open the PDF file that you want to convert to Word and select the text or content that you want to copy.
  2. Right-click on the selection and choose Copy or use the keyboard shortcut Ctrl+C.
  3. Open Google Docs and start a new or existing document.
  4. Paste the copied content using the keyboard shortcut Ctrl+V or right-click and select Paste from the dropdown list.
  5. The content from the PDF file will now be pasted onto the document.
  6. Make any necessary edits to the content and download the document by clicking File and selecting Download from the dropdown list. Then choose the format that you want to use for downloading the file.

Pros

  • Simple and quick process
  • No need to upload or download the document, and everything happens within Google Docs

Cons

  • May not support complex formatting, images, and tables
  • May not retain the original layout of the document and require additional formatting

Method 3: Convert Using Adobe Acrobat PRO DC

Adobe Acrobat PRO DC is one of the most widely used PDF editors that can also convert PDF files to multiple formats, including Word.

  1. Install Adobe Acrobat PRO DC on your computer and open the application.
  2. Go to File and select Open. Then choose the PDF file that you want to convert to Word.
  3. The PDF file will now open in Adobe Acrobat PRO DC. Click the Export PDF tool on the right-hand side of the screen.
  4. Select Microsoft Word as the export format and click the Export button.
  5. Enter a name for the Word file and choose the location where you want to save the file. Click Save to start the conversion process.
  6. Once the conversion is complete, the Word file will be saved in the selected location.

Pros

  • Retains the original formatting and layout of the document
  • Supports large and complex documents

Cons

  • Adobe Acrobat PRO DC is a paid application, and you need to purchase a license to use all its features
  • May not be suitable for minor editing or quick conversion

Why Can’t I Convert PDF to Word?

There could be multiple reasons why you might not be able to convert a PDF file to Word using Google Docs. Some of them are:

  • The PDF file is too large, and Google Docs cannot process it
  • The PDF file contains scanned images instead of text, and Google Docs cannot convert images to editable text
  • The formatting of the PDF file is complex and cannot be retained during the conversion process
  • The internet connection is slow or unstable, and the upload/download process is interrupted

Suggestions

  • Always review the converted Word file for any formatting errors and make necessary edits before submitting or sharing it with others.
  • If you are handling confidential or sensitive information, do not use Google Docs or other online conversion tools. Use an offline PDF editor or converter that has higher security standards.
  • For better results, try to keep the formatting of the original PDF file simple and consistent. Avoid using too many images, tables, and graphs unless necessary.

FAQs:

Q. Can I convert multiple PDF files to Word simultaneously using Google Docs?

A. No, Google Docs allows you to convert one PDF file to Word at a time.

Q. Does the formatting of the PDF file affect the conversion process?

A. Yes, if the PDF file contains complex formatting and layout, it may not be retained during the conversion process.

Q. Is it necessary to have an internet connection to convert PDF to Word using Google Docs?

A. Yes, you need an active internet connection to upload, download, and use Google Docs for the conversion process.

Q. How long does it take to convert a PDF file to Word using Google Docs?

A. The conversion time varies depending on the size and complexity of the PDF file and the speed and stability of the internet connection. However, it usually takes a few minutes.

Q. Can I edit the converted Word file in Google Docs?

A. Yes, you can edit the converted Word file using Google Docs as it saves the file in the Google Drive.

Conclusion

Converting PDF to Word using Google Docs provides a quick and convenient method to modify and reformat PDF files. While there are multiple methods for PDF to Word conversion, using Google Docs is free and easily accessible to everyone with a Google account. Depending on the complexity of the PDF file, the formatting may not be retained during the conversion process. However, simple and consistent PDF files usually convert smoothly with minimal formatting issues. Always review the converted Word file for any errors before submitting or sharing it with others.