Method 1 Use Microsoft Word
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Step 1: Open the PDF in Word
Open Word and choose File > Open, then select your PDF.
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Step 2: Let Word convert it
Word tells you it will convert the PDF into an editable document. Click OK.
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Step 3: Check the layout
Review the document. Text converts well; tables, columns and images may need small fixes.
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Step 4: Save as .docx
Choose File > Save As and pick Word Document (*.docx).
Method 2 Use Google Docs (free, in your browser)
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Step 1: Upload the PDF to Google Drive
Go to drive.google.com, click New > File upload and choose your PDF.
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Step 2: Open it with Google Docs
Right-click the PDF and choose Open with > Google Docs.
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Step 3: Download as Word
Choose File > Download > Microsoft Word (.docx).
Troubleshooting
The converted text is garbled or missing
The PDF is probably a scanned image. Google Docs can recognise text in scans; the result may still need proofreading.
Word asks for a password
The PDF is protected. You need the password from the person who created it.
Frequently asked questions
Is there a free way to convert PDF to Word?
Yes. Google Docs is free with a Google Account, and Microsoft Word for the web can also open PDFs.
Will the formatting stay the same?
Simple documents convert almost perfectly. Complex layouts with columns, forms or unusual fonts often need some manual fixes.
Summary
Open the PDF in Word or Google Docs, check the layout and save it as a .docx file.
