How to convert a Word document to PDF
A PDF looks the same on every screen and printer, which is why CVs, contracts and reports are usually sent that way. Converting a Word document is simple; knowing what the conversion keeps and what it changes saves an unpleasant surprise after you hit send.
Updated September 15, 20265 min read
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How to convert Word to PDF, step by step
There is nothing to install and no Office licence to buy, and the document is not uploaded to convert it.
- Open Word to PDF and add the .docx file.
- Choose the paper size for the PDF.
- Run the tool and download the PDF.
- Open the result and scroll through it once before sending, paying attention to page breaks.
What the conversion keeps
Headings, paragraphs, lists, tables and images are rebuilt as real content. The PDF contains actual text rather than a picture of each page, so it can be searched, copied and read by screen readers.
That also matters for job applications: applicant tracking systems read the text layer of a CV, and a PDF that is only an image of a page looks empty to them.
What can change
Line and page breaks may fall slightly differently from Word, because the content is reproduced rather than photographed. For most letters, CVs and reports this is invisible or harmless. When the layout must match Word exactly — a designed brochure or a form with precise positioning — export to PDF from Word itself, then use DocuGrip for what comes next.
After converting
A PDF is often a step on the way rather than the end of the job.
- Compress PDF brings the file under an email or upload limit without blurring the text.
- Sign PDF adds your signature before you send the document back.
- Merge PDF combines the converted document with other files, such as a cover letter and a CV.