How to Convert Word to PDF

The quickest methods to turn .doc/.docx into a share-ready PDF on any device—without breaking your layout.

Beginner-friendly 5 methods Updated: 16 August 2025 Reading time: ~5 min

Convert Word to PDF Now

Table of contents

  1. Windows: Microsoft Word
  2. Mac: Microsoft Word
  3. Google Docs (Browser)
  4. Online Converter (No Install)
  5. iPhone & Android
  6. Tips to preserve formatting
  7. FAQ

Windows: Convert in Microsoft Word

  1. Open your .doc or .docx file in Microsoft Word.
  2. Click File → Save As (or Export).
  3. Choose a folder, then set Save as type to PDF (*.pdf).
  4. Click Options… if needed, then Save.

Want a smaller file? In Word’s Save dialog, pick Minimum size (publishing online).

Mac: Convert in Microsoft Word

  1. Open the document in Word for Mac.
  2. Go to File → Save As.
  3. Set File Format to PDF and click Save.

Alternatively: File → Print → Save as PDF.

Google Docs (Browser)

  1. Open docs.google.com and upload or open your file.
  2. Click File → Download → PDF Document (.pdf).

Great when you don’t have Word installed.

Online Converter (No Install)

Fast and free when you just need a PDF, right now.

  1. Open the Word to PDF tool.
  2. Upload your .docx or .doc file.
  3. Click Convert and download your PDF.
Privacy tip: Avoid uploading confidential documents. For sensitive files, convert locally in Word.

iPhone & Android

Using Microsoft Word mobile app

  1. Open the file in the Word app.
  2. Tap File or ⋮ → Save as/Export.
  3. Choose PDF and save or share.

Using Google Docs app

  1. Open the doc in Google Docs.
  2. Tap Share & export → Save as → PDF.

Tips to preserve formatting

  • Embed fonts: In Word (Windows) go to Options → Save → Embed fonts in the file before exporting.
  • Page size & margins: Set Layout → Size and Margins correctly before conversion.
  • Images: Use high-resolution images to avoid blurriness in the PDF.
  • Hyperlinks: Ensure links are inserted properly—Word preserves them in PDF.
  • Security: For passwords/permissions, apply them after export using a PDF editor.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will my formatting be preserved when converting Word to PDF?

Yes—Word, Google Docs, and reputable online tools keep fonts, margins, images, headers/footers, and page breaks intact in most cases.

Can I convert Word to PDF for free?

Yes. Word, Google Docs, and our online converter all offer free export to PDF.

How do I reduce the PDF file size?

In Word, choose Minimum size (publishing online). Also compress large images before exporting or use a PDF compressor afterwards.

Is it safe to use an online converter?

Use a site with HTTPS and a clear privacy policy. For sensitive documents, convert locally in Word or Google Docs.

What’s the difference between .doc and .docx?

.docx is newer, smaller, and XML-based. Both convert perfectly to PDF.