How to Convert MS Word to WordPerfect

Microsoft Word (MS Word) and WordPerfect are two different types of word processing software. While they basically perform the same functions, their file formats are different. Converting a MS Word document into a format WordPerfect can read, however, is not difficult because MS Word has the ability to save files in multiple formats. WordPerfect has the ability to read files saved in alternative formats. RIch Text Format is a file format both programs recognize.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

1. Open Microsoft Word and open the MS Word document you want to convert to WordPerfect.

2. Click the File menu (or the Office menu in Word 2007) and select "Save As."

3. 
    
   MS Word Save As Dialog Box

   Choose Rich Text Format (RTF) from the "File Format" drop down menu as the file type to save the document as. Rich Text format retains your document formatting but saves the file in a more universal format that multiple applications can read.

4. Type in a new name for the file. Word will automatically add the correct file extension .RTF.

5. Click the "Save" button. Open Word Perfect first, then use WordPerfect's File menu Open command to read the RTF file.

Tips & Warnings

• Files saved in Microsoft Word as text with a .TXT extension can also be read in WordPerfect. However, saving as text will remove all your document's formatting and leave you with just the words on the page.
• An overly complex MS Word document may not look exactly the same when opened in Word Perfect. Some formatting changes are to be expected when you convert between two programs produced by different companies.

References

• RIch Text Format Explained
• Moving Between MS Word and Word Perfect

Resources

• Microsoft Word Home Page
• WordPerfect Home Page