How to Convert PDF to Word Without Losing Formatting (2026)

Google Docs can also convert PDFs to editable documents:

• 1. Upload your PDF to Google Drive.
• 2. Right-click the file and select Open with → Google Docs.
• 3. The PDF content will appear as an editable document.
• 4. Download as .docx via File → Download → Microsoft Word.

To get the best results when converting PDF to Word:

• Use a high-quality source PDF — scanned documents (image-based PDFs) require OCR first. Use our OCR tool to extract text from scanned PDFs before converting.
• Check fonts — if the PDF uses custom or embedded fonts, the converter may substitute similar fonts. Review the output and adjust as needed.
• Simplify complex layouts — multi-column layouts, text boxes, and layered graphics are the hardest elements to preserve. For complex PDFs, consider converting page by page.
• Keep file sizes reasonable — very large PDFs (100+ pages) may take longer or produce less accurate results. Split them first using a PDF splitter.

For most users, a free online converter like Reformat provides excellent results without the cost of premium software.

Yes, but you'll need OCR (Optical Character Recognition) first. Scanned PDFs are essentially images, so the text needs to be extracted before conversion. Use our OCR tool, then convert the result to Word.

In most cases, yes. Reformat's converter preserves images, tables, and basic formatting. Very complex layouts with overlapping elements may need minor manual adjustments.

Yes. All files are encrypted in transit via HTTPS and automatically deleted from our servers within 1 hour. We never access or share your file contents.

You'll need to remove the password protection first. Most PDF viewers let you "Print to PDF" without the password, or you can use a PDF unlock tool.