How to Convert Word to PDF
Quick answer
In Microsoft Word, choose File > Save As (or Export) and pick PDF as the file type. In Google Docs, choose File > Download > PDF. On any device you can also use Print and choose 'Save as PDF', though Save As keeps links and bookmarks better.
Microsoft Word (Windows)
- File > Save As, then choose a location.
- Set Save as type to PDF (*.pdf).
- Optional: Options… to choose page range, create bookmarks from headings, or make it PDF/A.
- Choose Standard (printing) or Minimum size (online), then Save.
Microsoft Word (Mac)
File > Save As > File Format: PDF > choose Best for electronic distribution and accessibility (keeps links and tags) > Export.
Google Docs
File > Download > PDF Document (.pdf).
Pages (Mac/iPhone)
File > Export To > PDF.
On a phone
- Word app: tap … > Export or Share > PDF.
- iPhone, any app: Share > Print > pinch outward on the preview > Share > Save to Files.
- Android, any app: Share/Print > choose Save as PDF as the printer.
Tips for a perfect PDF
- Use Save As/Export, not “Print to PDF”, to keep links, bookmarks and accessibility tags.
- Use headings (Heading 1, 2) in Word to get automatic PDF bookmarks.
- Embed fonts if you used unusual fonts. See PDF fonts look wrong.
- Large images make large PDFs. Compress pictures in Word first (Picture Format > Compress Pictures).
Frequently asked questions
How do I make a PDF/A from Word?
File > Save As > PDF > Options, and tick 'PDF/A compliant'. Many courts and government portals require this.
Why are the links not clickable in my PDF?
You probably used Print to PDF, which can drop links. Use File > Save As > PDF (Windows) or File > Export > PDF (Mac) instead.
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