Convert PDF to Google Docs
Create an editable Google Docs copy of a PDF, then review the text and layout before sharing.
Google Drive can upload a PDF and open it with Google Docs to create an editable document. The original PDF remains in Drive; the Docs file is a separate copy.
- 1
Upload the PDF to Google Drive
In Drive, choose New, then File upload, and select the PDF from your computer.
- 2
Open it with Google Docs
Find the uploaded file, use Open with, and choose Google Docs. Google creates an editable Docs copy.
- 3
Review and save the result
Check headings, tables, columns and special characters. Edit the copy, then share it or download it in the format you need.
What happens when you open a PDF in Google Docs
The conversion creates a new editable Docs file; it does not overwrite the source PDF. This is useful for revising text, but a PDF's fixed layout may not transfer perfectly into an editable document.
Simple, text-based PDFs normally convert most cleanly. Complex tables, multi-column layouts, unusual fonts and form fields may need manual correction.
Scanned PDFs need extra review
A scan can contain an image of text rather than true selectable text. Google Docs may attempt to recognise that text, but recognition and formatting should always be checked against the original.
For a private local copy of text that is already selectable, use DoceasePDF's PDF to Text tool instead. It does not upload the PDF and does not claim to perform OCR.
Frequently asked questions
Can Google Docs open a PDF?
You can upload a PDF to Google Drive and open it with Google Docs to create a separate editable copy.
Will Google Docs preserve the PDF formatting?
Not always. Check complex layouts, tables, columns and fonts after conversion.
Does Google Docs overwrite my original PDF?
No. It creates an editable Docs copy while the original PDF remains in Drive.
Use DoceasePDF's tools privately in your browser.