How to Extract PDFs to Text 3 easy ways

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Admin 06 Oct 2024

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    Converting PDFs to text is a common need for students, professionals, and businesses who regularly work with documents 📄. If it's extracting information from a scanned PDF or making edits to a text-heavy file, owning the right tools to perform the conversion is needed.One of the best effective methods involves using OCR technology. You can convert your desired PFDs into text in different ways. In this guide, we will convert the three easy ways to extract PDFs to text and the steps to follow.  So, here we go 👇

    Method 1: Using an Online Pdf to Text converter (Web-based tool) 

    PDF to Text Converter is a simple and completely free online tool that enables you to extract text from PDF files effortlessly. As a web-based platform, it eliminates the need for downloads or installations, making it a highly convenient choice.

    1: Open pdftotext.info - an Online Pdf to Text converter 

    2: Upload PDFs from your device by clicking the “Browse files” button.

    3: Click  the“Convert” button to start the conversion Process

    4. After conversion, Download or Copy a text file. 

    Pros and Cons Of Using PDF to text Converter

    Pros

    • Free and accessible without any software download 
    • Quick and easy to use for PDF-to-text conversions. 
    • Support multiple languages

    Cons:

    • Require internet connection

    Method 2: Using Microsoft Word 

    Microsoft Word offers an easy way to extract PDFs into text. You can use it without downloading other software. To do this. Follow these steps👇

    1. Open Microsoft Word

       2. Drag and drop the PDF into the application or use the Open function to select the PDF.

       3. Word will convert the PDF into a document.

    Pros: 

    • A user-friendly interference 
    • No need to download and separately purchase software.
    • Powerful features and editable tools

    Cons: 

    • Limited Collaboration Features Compared to other platforms.
    • Large files may slow down performance.
    • Requires a subscription for full access.

    Method 3:Using Adobe Acrobat Pro DC

    Adobe Acrobat Pro DC is a premium tool that allows users to extract PDFs into text. You can use its required paid subscription after a free trial. 

    So, let's start. Follow these steps👇

    1. Open the PDF in Adobe Acrobat Pro DC
    2. Click on Tools > PDF.into text
    3. Select the text you want to convert. 
    4. You can also choose Export PDF to convert the PDF into formats like Word, Excel, or plain text.

    Pors:

    • Advanced OCR for converting scanned PDFs to text.
    • Maintains formatting and layout accurately.
    • Industry-leading PDF editing and conversion tools.

    Cons:

    • High subscription cost compare to other PDF tools like: pdftotext.info , smallpdf , ilovepdf
    • Limited functionality in the mobile version. 
    • Performance can be slow on older devices

    Finish Up: 

    Converting PDFs to text is simple and can be done in a few different ways, depending on your needs. One quick and convenient option is using an online PDF to Text converter. This tool is perfect for those who need a fast solution without downloading any software. Just upload your PDF, and the tool extracts the text in seconds, making it ideal for one-off tasks or when you're on the go.

    If you're looking for a more familiar option, Microsoft Word offers built-in functionality to open PDFs and convert them to text. It’s a great choice if you already have Word installed, and you prefer working within a trusted environment. The process is as easy as opening the PDF file in Word, and it automatically converts it into a document you can modify.

    For those who frequently work with PDFs or need advanced features, Adobe Acrobat Pro DC is a powerful tool that not only converts PDFs to text but also offers a wide range of customization and editing options. This solution is particularly useful for professionals who need strong PDF management ability along with text conversion.

    Each of these methods has its own benefits, so choose the one that fits your workflow and needs.

    Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) 

    What is the best way to convert PDF into text?

    The best way to convert PDF into text is by using PDF to text converter.

    1. You simple upload file
    2. Click ‘ Converter
    3. Download the extracted form

    Can I convert scanned PDF into text?

    Yes, you can convert scanned PDFs to text using tools that support OCR (Optical Character Recognition) technology.

    What types of pdfs can be converted into text? 

    Text-based PDFs, scanned PDFs with OCR support, and image-heavy PDFs can all be converted into text.

    Do I need to install any software to convert PDFs to text?
    No, with online tools like PDFtoText.info, you don't need to install any software. It’s a web-based tool that allows you to convert PDFs directly through your browser.