In our everyday tasks, the PDF file stands out as one of the most commonly used formats, whether for business contracts or other confidential documents. However, there are instances when we need to edit a PDF file, which can be challenging due to its format. The question arises: How can I edit my PDF file? Converting PDF to Word proves to be a viable solution.
In this article, I will introduce four methods to convert PDF to Word on Mac. All of these methods are entirely free and well worth trying! If you are looking for a free PDF to Word converter for Mac, you've come to the right place. Keep reading to learn the details.
How to Convert DRM-Protected PDFs to DOCX?
Have you ever purchased ebooks from Google Play other some other ebook vendors? It should be mentioned that ebooks purchased from Google play or some libraries can be exported to pdf format. Please note these pdf files are all encrypted with Adobe drm. So to convert this kind of pdf to word format, an extra drm-removing step is required. The best recommended tool to convert drm-protect pdf to docx on mac is Epubor Ultimate. This tool removes DRM and converts PDFs to DOCX, MOBI, EPUB, or TXT formats.
The step is super easy. You just need to launch it and add pdf file to it and then click on "Convert to Docx" button to convert pdf to word. Epubor Ultimate also works on Windows computer.
Method 1: Mac Pre-installed Software—Mac Automator App
This method doesn’t require installing any software. Instead, you can use the pre-installed Automator app to build a custom workflow to convert the PDF to plain text or RTF, which can be opened with Word.
Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you convert a PDF to Word on Mac with Automator:
Step 1: Run Automator, found in your Applications folder or Launchpad. Select “Application” and click on “Choose.”
Step 2: Go to “PDFs” under the “Action” tab in the left column, then click “Extract PDF Text” in the central column. Drag and drop “Extract PDF Text” to the right column to build your workflow. A new window will pop up as shown below.
Choose “Rich Text” as the output, select the storage location for the output file, and specify the file name.
Step 3: Save your workflow as shown below. Ensure the file format is set to “Application,” not “Workflow.” Then name it “PDF to Word App” and save it in your preferred location, such as the Desktop.
Step 4: Now you have your own “PDF to Word App.” To convert a PDF to Word, drag and drop the PDF file onto this application, and a new .rtf file will be created. You can open this RTF file in Word.
This “PDF to Word App” allows you to convert any PDF to Word within seconds. However, it does not support batch conversion and cannot handle scanned PDF files. Additionally, text format is the only output format available.
Method 2: Online PDF to Word Converter
Several online PDF to Word converters for Mac are free and easy to use. However, it’s important to research these services, as some lack privacy policies or disclaimers. If your PDF file contains confidential information, avoid using online services.
Here are some popular online PDF to Word converters:
While online services are convenient and cost-effective, they may compromise document quality and security.
Method 3: Google Docs
Google Drive offers more than just storage; it also converts PDFs to Word. Here’s how to convert a PDF to Word on Mac using Google Docs. This safe and easy method requires a Google account.
Step 1: Log into Google Drive and upload the PDF file by clicking “NEW” and selecting “File upload.”
Step 2: Right-click the uploaded file and select “Open with Google Docs.”
Step 3: In Google Docs, go to “File” > “Download as” > “Microsoft Word (.docx).”
While this method preserves formatting, it requires an internet connection and doesn’t support batch conversion.
Method 4: Calibre
Calibre, a free eBook management tool, can convert eBooks, including PDFs, to Word. It’s particularly useful for batch conversion.
Step 1: Download and install Calibre for Mac here.
Step 2: Add the PDF file to Calibre, right-click the title, and select “Convert Books.” Choose “DOCX” as the output format.
This method supports batch conversion but requires software installation. It’s suitable for users with many PDFs to convert.
These are the four methods to convert PDF to Word on Mac. Other methods, like Adobe Acrobat Pro DC, offer comprehensive PDF tools but are paid. Although Acrobat Pro DC ensures high-quality conversion, its $14.99/month subscription may not suit everyone.
FAQs on Converting PDF to Word on Mac
Q: How to convert PDF to Word without losing formatting on Mac?
A: Free converters, Google Docs, and Automator may result in some formatting loss. For better quality, try Calibre or Epubor Ultimate.
Q: How do I convert a PDF to Word on Mac 100% free?
A: All methods mentioned here are free. For DRM-protected PDFs, Epubor Ultimate offers a free trial that decrypts 20% of each file.
Q: Is it safe to convert PDF to Word on Mac?
A: It’s generally safe, especially with trusted tools. For sensitive documents, consider Epubor Ultimate, which converts files locally.
Q: Is there any open-source PDF to Word Converter for Mac?
A: Calibre is an open-source converter for Mac. However, open-source tools may lack the polish of commercial solutions, like Epubor Ultimate.
Iris Yan is a passionate member of the Epubor team, dedicated to enhancing your ebook reading experience. She shares insightful tips, tricks, and practical advice to help you get the most out of your digital library. Join her on the journey to reading excellence today!
