Microsoft Word is a great program for creating documents, but the PDF format is better for sharing and printing because it is consistent and works with more programs.
If you're finishing up a report, making a resume, or sending out an e-book, knowing how to convert your Word files to PDF in Windows 10 and 11 can ensure that the person who gets them sees them exactly how you want them to.
This article will show you the 6 ways available, with clear and simple instructions for each method.
Option 1. PDF Candy
One of the easiest ways to convert Microsoft Word to PDF is by using an online tool that offers a reliable solution to transform your media.
How to convert Word to PDF in Windows 10 and 11 online with PDF Candy
- Open the online Word to PDF converter in your browser.
- Import the desired original by pressing the "+Add File" button. It is also possible to drag and drop it.
- Once the upload is done, click the "Convert to PDF" button to begin processing.
- Download the result or share it via a link.
That's it! You can now enjoy your converted MS Word file without any hassle. The benefit of an online tool is that you don't need to install any software. You can access the service from any computer with an internet connection.
It also allows you to change from PDF back to Word. Plus, it's free and secure.
In addition, you have the option to upload your text documents from Dropbox and Google Drive for further conversion. You can save the output files to these cloud storage services, too.
I often opt for it when I need to quickly turn a class assignment into PDF before sending it to my professor, and it saves me from last-minute formatting issues.
Option 2. PDF Candy Desktop for Windows
We all know internet access is not always secure, especially when traveling. That's why it's essential to have an offline solution for specific tasks. Using this universal software is straightforward.
How to turn a Word document into a PDF on Windows in PDF Candy Desktop
- Download and install PDF Candy Desktop for Windows.
- Open the program and select the "Word to PDF" option.
- Select the Word file you want to change into PDF format.
- Preview everything before conversion and adjust the settings according to your preference.
- Click the "Convert" button and locate the PDF in the specified folder.
The advantage of the desktop version is that you can add more than one file in a row and also merge them in a queue into one PDF. It is not necessary that the documents have the same format; they can be different.
Before the start of conversion, it is possible to password-protect the PDF in the settings. So, if you need a reliable offline solution, this software is worth considering.
I personally rely on it when I need to process multiple work documents at once, as it keeps everything secure and offline.
This program works not only on Windows 10 but also on Windows 11 and earlier versions of 8 and 7.
Option 3. Google Drive
The internet is a powerful tool for accessing information and resources. With a few clicks and some basic know-how, it's easy to convert DOC to a PDF file.
How to save a Word document as a PDF with Google Drive
- Go to Google Drive.
- Log into your account or create one.
- Select the DOC you wish to change and click "Open".
- Press "File" in the top left corner of the cloud and choose "Download as" in the menu.
- Select "PDF Document (.pdf)", then click "Export".
If your Word text is already uploaded to Google Drive, you can open it in Google Docs. Convert it to PDF with ease; that option is also possible!
Option 4. Print to PDF
Creating a PDF from any file on Windows 10 can be done quickly and easily. The Print feature is an effective way to do this. It allows you to turn a Word into a PDF with no software. In addition to being free, this method offers high-quality results and a straightforward process.
How to convert Word to PDF on Windows 10 or 11 with Print to PDF
- Open your document in any text editor of your choice (Microsoft Word, OpenOffice Writer, etc.).
- Click "File" and select "Print" from the dropdown menu.
- Select Microsoft Print to PDF from the list of available printers in the window.
- Press "Print", and the "Save As" window will appear.
- Choose a location to place the file and name it as desired, then press "Save".
Using this feature is simple to convert DOC to PDF without any fuss or extra costs. You can also use it to print directly onto physical paper if you need to keep a hard copy.
Option 5. Adobe Acrobat Reader
With Adobe Acrobat Reader, the conversion allows you to retain the layout of your document while facilitating sharing. It's user-friendly and runs on Windows 10.
How to make Word DOC a PDF with Acrobat Reader
- Download and install Acrobat Reader on your PC.
- Launch the program.
- Go to "Menu" > "Create PDF" and press "Select Files".
- Choose the documents and tap "Open".
- Hit "Convert to PDF".
It only takes a few clicks to save a Word as PDF using Acrobat Reader. However, you must have an Adobe Creative Cloud subscription to use the Acrobat Reader conversion feature. Also, only DOC/DOCX can be turned into PDF.
Option 6. Abbyy Finereader
Finereader serves as a Windows-based software that can change the extensions. It is easy and offers several features that make it a great choice for both novice and experienced people.
How to change a Word document to PDF format with Abbyy Finereader
- Download and set up Abbyy Finereader on your Windows 10 PC.
- Launch the software.
- Click the "Convert to PDF" option and select the file. Tap "Open".
- Adjust the settings and press "Convert to PDF".
Abbyy Finereader is user-friendly, so you don't need any special knowledge or skills. The program can recognize text from scanned images, making it easier to convert DOC to PDFs.
Despite its various capabilities, the software may be significantly pricier than other options available on the market. And some older versions of Windows may not be compatible with this app.
Why does Word fail to convert my file to PDF?
Can't save a Word document as PDF? It's frustrating when you wish to transform your file, and it just won't work.
It might be due to the outdated version of Microsoft Word you are using. Ensure that you have the latest version of the MS Office suite installed. Updating the software can resolve many compatibility issues.
System settings can be a problem. If you have installed specific security or antivirus on your computer, it can prevent the program from changing a Word DOC to PDF. The same goes for any other third-party software that might be interfering with the process.
Finally, the document you want to change might be too big, have too many pictures, or have formatting that is too complicated. This can make processing harder because it takes the software longer to go through all the data.
You should save your result as a .docx file and use a newer version of Word, like Office 2016 or 365, so it turns out correctly. This should make sure that the conversion into a PDF.
Reasons to convert Word to PDF
Translating files is a great way to ensure that the content looks the same no matter what device they are opened on. Here are just a few of the advantages of saving Word DOC as PDF:
- Compatibility: PDFs are compatible with almost any device, from Windows and Mac computers to tablets and mobile phones.
- Security: Unlike Word documents, which can be edited by anyone, PDFs are protected and cannot be modified without the right software.
- File size: PDFs are more compact than Word, making them simpler to share via email or cloud storage.
- Design consistency: A PDF retains the exact layout and formatting of its original, no matter how many times it's opened or shared.
- Legibility: PDFs keep their font size and font face intact, which makes them easier to read than Word.
Ultimately, this is a straightforward way to guarantee that your documents appear professional and can be securely shared on any device.
FAQ
1. What happens during the conversion?
The process involves extracting text, images, tables, and other content from the DOC file and encoding it into the PDF.
2. Are dynamic elements like macros preserved?
Features such as ActiveX controls or other interactive elements from Word are typically lost in the PDF, as it is a static medium. Any dynamic elements needs manual adaptation before or after.
3. How does the PDF version impact the final result?
Different standards (e.g., PDF/A or PDF/X) may require specific handling during conversion. The selected type determines compatibility with diverse software and whether it meets specific requirements for long-term storage or print production.
How to convert Word to PDF in Windows 10: Final words
There are six elementary techniques to export Word documents to PDF on Windows 10, 11, or earlier OS versions. All of them are quick and easy to use, and they will help you create professional-looking PDFs.
With the means outlined in this article, you should now have the necessary skills for converting Word to PDF.
Use more online tools to further edit the file:
- Try the "PDF Compressor" to stay within the limits of your email provider settings.
- Extract pages you don't want to share with "PDF Splitter".
- To remove or add extra metadata, try the "Edit Metadata" tool.
