Convert PDF to Text
Sometimes you want the words, not the layout. This tool reads the text out of a PDF in reading order and hands it back as a plain .txt file — no fonts, no columns, no pages, just the text you can paste into an email, a search box or a script.
Also known as: PDF to TXT · Extract text from PDF · PDF text extractor
Encrypted upload · deleted right after conversion
Your files are deleted automatically
Uploads are removed as soon as processing finishes, and converted files are deleted after 1 hour. Read our privacy policy.
How to convert PDF to TXT
Step 1
1. Add your PDF file
Drag your PDF file into the box, or choose it from your device. It can be up to 50 MB.
Step 2
2. Choose your settings
Optional settings are under Advanced options; the starting values suit most files.
Step 3
3. Press Convert to TXT
The work happens on our servers, and you can follow its progress.
Step 4
4. Download your TXT file
Your upload is already deleted, and the result is deleted after one hour.
Worth knowing
Plain text has no headings, bold or pictures — those are dropped on purpose. A two-column page is read column by column, and a table comes across as rows with the cells spaced by tabs.
Why convert PDF to TXT?
- Copying the wording of a report without the formatting
- Feeding a document's text into a spreadsheet, script or AI tool
- Searching a long PDF by opening its text in a plain editor
- Pulling quotes or references out of a paper
PDF vs TXT
| Property | TXT | |
|---|---|---|
| Keeps | Layout, fonts, pages | The words, in reading order |
| Editable | Not easily | Yes, anywhere |
| Size | Can be large | Tiny |
| Best for | Reading and printing | Reusing the text |
Frequently asked questions
Page updated