How to Convert Word to PDF: Keep Formatting Perfect
Convert Word to PDF without losing formatting. Learn the best methods to create professional PDFs from Word documents on any device.
Converting Word documents to PDF is essential for sharing files professionally. PDFs preserve your formatting and look the same on any device.
Here's how to convert Word to PDF while keeping fonts, images, and layouts perfect.
Why Convert Word to PDF?
Benefits of PDF:
- Universal viewing: Opens on any device
- Formatting locked: Looks the same everywhere
- Professional: Standard for business documents
- Smaller files: Often smaller than Word docs
- Secure: Can add password protection
- Print-ready: What you see is what prints
Common Use Cases:
- Sharing resumes and CVs
- Sending contracts and agreements
- Distributing reports
- Submitting assignments
- Creating printable materials
Method 1: Convert Word to PDF Online (Fastest)
Steps:
- Go to Percime Word to PDF Converter
- Upload your Word document (.doc or .docx)
- Click Convert
- Download your PDF
Advantages:
- ✅ No software needed
- ✅ Works on any device
- ✅ Free, no watermarks
- ✅ Instant conversion
- ✅ Formatting preserved
Method 2: Using Microsoft Word
If you have Word installed:
On Windows/Mac:
- Open your document in Word
- Go to File > Save As (or Export)
- Choose PDF from the format dropdown
- Click Save
Keyboard Shortcut:
Ctrl+Shift+S → Select PDF → Save
Method 3: Using Google Docs
Free method without Microsoft Word:
- Upload Word file to Google Drive
- Open with Google Docs
- File > Download > PDF Document
Note: Some formatting may differ slightly.
Method 4: On Mac (Built-in)
Mac has native PDF creation:
- Open document in any app
- File > Print
- Click PDF dropdown (bottom-left)
- Choose "Save as PDF"
Works from any application!
Method 5: On iPhone/iPad
Using Files App:
- Open the Word document
- Tap Share
- Select Print
- Pinch outward on preview to create PDF
- Share or save the PDF
Using Pages:
- Open in Pages app
- Tap ⋯ (more)
- Export > PDF
Method 6: On Android
Using Google Drive:
- Upload file to Google Drive
- Open with Google Docs
- ⋮ menu > Download > PDF
Using WPS Office (free app):
- Open document
- Menu > Export as PDF
Ensuring Perfect Formatting
Before Converting:
- Embed fonts: File > Options > Save > Embed fonts
- Check images: Ensure images are high resolution
- Review layout: Check page breaks and margins
- Use styles: Consistent formatting converts better
Troubleshooting Formatting Issues:
Fonts Look Different:
- Embed fonts before converting
- Use common fonts (Arial, Times New Roman)
- Convert on computer with fonts installed
Images Blurry:
- Use high-resolution images (300 DPI for print)
- Don't compress images in Word
Page Breaks Wrong:
- Add explicit page breaks (Ctrl+Enter)
- Check section breaks
Tables Misaligned:
- Simplify table formatting
- Avoid merged cells when possible
PDF Settings and Options
PDF Quality Settings:
| Setting | Best For |
|---|---|
| Standard | General sharing, email |
| High Quality | Printing |
| Minimum Size | Email attachments |
Accessibility Options:
- Add document tags for screen readers
- Include bookmarks for navigation
- Add alt text to images
Converting Multiple Word Documents
Batch Conversion:
- Upload multiple files to online converters
- Use Word's Export feature multiple times
- Consider PDF24 desktop app for bulk conversion
Merging After Conversion:
- Convert each Word file to PDF
- Use a PDF merger to combine
- Arrange pages in desired order
Security Options
Password Protection:
After creating your PDF, you can:
- Add open password (required to view)
- Add permission password (restricts editing)
- Disable printing if needed
Digital Signatures:
For legal documents, consider adding digital signatures after conversion.
Comparison: Online vs. Desktop Conversion
| Feature | Online | Microsoft Word |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | Free | License needed |
| Speed | Fast | Instant |
| Quality | Good | Best |
| Batch | Limited | Yes |
| Offline | No | Yes |
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Word to PDF conversion free?
Yes, online tools like Percime Tools offer free conversion. Microsoft Word also converts to PDF if you have a license.
Will my formatting be preserved?
Usually yes, especially using Microsoft Word or quality online converters. Complex layouts may need adjustment.
Can I convert password-protected Word files?
You'll need the password to open the file first. Then convert as normal.
Why is my PDF much larger than the Word file?
Embedded fonts and high-resolution images increase file size. Use PDF compression if needed.
Can I convert Word to PDF on my phone?
Yes, using online converters in your browser, or apps like Google Docs or WPS Office.
Tips for Professional PDFs
- Use PDF/A for archiving: Long-term preservation format
- Add metadata: Title, author, subject for organization
- Include bookmarks: For long documents
- Check before sending: Always review the PDF output
- Consider file name: Use professional, descriptive names
Conclusion
Converting Word to PDF ensures your documents look professional and consistent everywhere. Online converters offer the fastest, easiest solution for quick conversions.
Convert your Word document to PDF free — formatting preserved, no watermarks.
Need the reverse? Convert PDF to Word to edit PDF content.