How to convert Word to PDF: every method explained

1 min read·24 July 2026

Saving a Word document as a PDF is the quickest way to create a final, non-editable file that looks the same on every device. Here are all the options.

Via Word itself (Windows and Mac)

In Microsoft Word: File → Save As → choose PDF as file type. Or: File → Export → Create PDF/XPS. On Mac: File → Print → Save as PDF (bottom left). All three produce a clean PDF with your formatting intact.

Google Docs

If you use Google Docs: File → Download → PDF Document (.pdf). Google Docs generally preserves formatting well, though complex multi-column layouts may occasionally show minor differences.

PDF to text

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LibreOffice Writer (free)

Open your .docx file in LibreOffice Writer and choose File → Export as PDF. You get extra options for quality, password protection and metadata.

Online, without software

Don't have Word or LibreOffice? Upload the .docx file to Google Docs (free) and export as PDF. Or use Microsoft Word Online (free via account.microsoft.com) and save as PDF.

Always check the result

Always open the exported PDF briefly before sending it. Watch for cut-off headers, shifted images or page numbering errors. A quick check saves a lot of hassle later.