RTF File

A rich text format (RTF) file is a word processing document that can be accessed by most major word processors. Microsoft created this file format type in 1987 and released it alongside Word 3.0. RTF is similar to plain text format (.txt), but it maintains text formatting like bold, italic, and headings.

Microsoft has not updated the RTF specification since 2008. This means most major word processing applications can open and edit RTF files, but some modern features like images and tables of contents will not save properly as an RTF document.

How to use RTF files

RTF is an XML-based, human-readable file format, so any user can create, edit, and/or save an RTF file directly with a plain text editor like Microsoft Notepad or Apple TextEdit. Additionally, nearly all word processing applications support RTF files, including Microsoft Word and Google Docs as well as open source apps like OpenOffice and AbleWord.

RTF files can be converted to other file formats like PDF, PNG, DOC, and HTML. Free online document converters like Doxillion and Zamzar enable users to upload an RTF file and export it as a different file type. Additionally, many of the word processing applications mentioned above have functionality for cross-format exporting.

How to open an RTF file

Opening an RTF file will look slightly different depending on a device’s operating system and the applications it has available to use. On most devices, users can double click the file to open it with the operating system’s default word processing application, or right click the file to open it with a specific application.

If the operating system does not have any applications that support RTF files, like most Linux distributions, the user will likely receive an error message when they try to open the file. The message will prompt the user to install a plain text editor or supported word processing software so they can open the file.

Kaiti Norton
Kaiti Norton
Kaiti Norton is a Nashville-based Content Writer for TechnologyAdvice, a full-service B2B media company. She is passionate about helping brands build genuine connections with their customers through relatable, research-based content. When she's not writing about technology, she's sharing her musings about fashion, cats, books, and skincare on her blog.
Get the Free Newsletter
Subscribe to Daily Tech Insider for top news, trends & analysis
This email address is invalid.
Get the Free Newsletter
Subscribe to Daily Tech Insider for top news, trends & analysis
This email address is invalid.

Related Articles

Embedded Analytics

Embedded analytics brings self-service business intelligence to everyday application users.

HRIS

Human resources information system (HRIS) solutions help businesses manage multiple facets of their workforce operations. They provide a central platform for human resources professionals...

Complete List of Cybersecurity Acronyms

Cybersecurity news and best practices are full of acronyms and abbreviations. Without understanding what each one means, it's difficult to comprehend the significance of...

Human Resources Management System

A Human Resources Management System (HRMS) is a software application that supports many functions of a company's Human Resources department, including benefits administration, payroll,...

ScalaHosting

ScalaHosting is a leading managed hosting provider that offers secure, scalable, and affordable...

HRIS

Human resources information system (HRIS) solutions help businesses manage multiple facets of their...

Best Managed Service Providers...

In today's business world, managed services are more critical than ever. They can...