How to Convert ODT to PDF Step-by-Step

ODT to PDF conversion might seem like a complicated process but it is not all that complicated. This guide will help you through several simple steps to transform your documents easily. If you are using free software like OpenOffice or are trying to use online converters or if you have to convert many files at once, you will find a simple solution here. PDF files are cross-platform compatible, very professional and accessible on practically any given gadget. When you finish this guide, you will be a pro at converting ODT files to PDF.

ODT Files and How Do You Open Them?

ODT file, short for Open Document Text, is a document file format that is created by word processors such as LibreOffice or OpenOffice. It means Open Document Text. This file format is almost the same as the DOCX files used in the Microsoft Word software. However, ODT files are created using open-source software tools.

ODT files are more familiar to people using other Office applications. These files appear like any other Word document file. It is possible to write text, insert pictures, and apply different formatting to them, as to any other type of document.

In order to open an ODT file, there are applications such as Free Document Viewer, Libre Office, Open Office, and WPS Office. If you do not have these installed, some web applications or file viewers will be able to open it for you. For convenience, you can even use Google Docs to upload and open ODT files as well in a blink of an eye.

Why Convert ODT into PDF?

PDF files are more flexible than ODT files and have a higher level of protection. Here are some reasons why you might want to perform ODT to PDF conversion:

• This is possible since PDF files do not require any special software for the document to be viewed and may be accessed on almost any operating system.
• Converting means your document will always appear in the same format regardless of which device the document is opened on.
• PDFs can be given a password protection feature along with other security settings that cannot be provided to ODT files.
• PDFs are well received for emails, uploads and for printing.

Important: Do not forget to always save your original ODT file and use copies for conversion. PDFs are perfect for sharing, but sometimes you may have to make changes in the original document.

Method 1: Export ODT as PDF via OpenOffice

OpenOffice is free and open-source software that can easily export ODT files to PDF. Follow these steps:

• Run OpenOffice Writer and then open the ODT file.
• To do this, go to the topmost menu and click on the File tab.
• From the drop-down menu, click Export as PDF.

• Modify the options of the PDF if necessary. Then click Export.

• Select the location on your computer where the PDF should be stored.

Your file is now converted. Open it to check whether all is well or not.

Method 2: Save ODT as PDF via Open Source AbiWord

AbiWord is a small program that can be used for document editing and conversion. Here’s how to save an ODT file as a PDF:

• The first step is to download the software from the internet, then install it on your computer from the comfort of your home.
• Open AbiWord and load the ODT file you have downloaded.
• Click File in the top menu.
• Go to Save as, and under save as type choose PDF for the file format.
• Name your file and save it.

Do not expect AbiWord to be perfect in the complex formatting of the documents. This method is effective when you need to convert one file only. It is easy, and the technical skills needed are not very complicated.

Batch Conversion: How to Convert ODT Files to PDF in Bulk

There are times when you want to convert more than one ODT file in a very short span of time. After all, if you have several ODT files, you will spend a lot of time converting each of them individually. It is possible to do this using batch conversion tools such as the SysTools Document Converter software.

It offers multiple advanced settings when exporting OpenOffice ODT files to PDF, not offered by other methods. These settings include options such as:

• Apply password on all output PDFs at once to make them safe and secure.
• Set page margins, page layout and page orientation for the PDF file.
• Choose what font to use on the output file along with its size and color.
• Apply header, footer, bates number and date formats with different settings.

Download the free trial version of the tool here:

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Use this free trial version to convert 5 files for free and see if this powerful batch converter suits your requirements.

Steps to Batch Export ODT Files to PDF:

• Open the software and select Add Files or Add Folder to import your ODT documents.
• Preview the imported documents.
• Choose the folder where you want your PDFs to be saved.
• If necessary, apply the page, font, and security settings.
• Click Export to convert all files simultaneously.

It is fast and suitable for organizations that deal with many files in their working processes. Batch conversion is very useful when handling many documents because it will take lesser time than when converting a single document.

Method 3: Use Online ODT to PDF Converter

Web applications can also be used as a more comfortable method for the ODT to PDF conversion. This service is available for free on many websites. They are located and operate right within your web browser. Here’s how you can do it:

Steps to Execute ODT to PDF Conversion via Any Online Tool:

• Go to an online website.
• Upload your ODT file. Almost all the tools come with the option to drag and drop.
• Click Convert, or a button with similar labeling.
• Let the conversion process occur. Then you can download this PDF format to your device.

But Be Wary of These Things:

• Your document is stored on a server. DO NOT STORE SENSITIVE OR CONFIDENTIAL MATERIALS ON THE CLOUD. Since you have no way of knowing what becomes of your document after you upload it.
• Most of the free tools limit the file size that you can use for your project.
• This method requires the internet connection to be stable.

People Ask, We Answer

Q: Is there any chance to convert ODT files to PDF on my phone?

A: Yes. You can open through Google Docs or WPS Office and then download the ODT file in PDF format.

Q: Is the format of the document going to change after conversion?

A: It depends. Advanced programs like SysTools ODT Converter tend to save the formatting intact. However, online tools or simple software applications may not have it.

Q: Which program can I use to convert multiple files for free?

A: Unfortunately, many free tools do not allow for batch conversion. Some of the paid tools like SysTools or the open source scripts can do the bulk tasks well.

Q: How long does it take for conversion to happen?

Usually the conversion takes a few seconds to a few minutes depending on the size of the file being converted.

Another File Conversion Scenario: https://www.systoolsgroup.com/how-to/convert-wps-to-pdf/

Bringing It All Together

ODT to PDF conversion is important to make the documents more easily shareable and more accessible. If you need to work with OpenOffice, AbiWord, SysTools, or use online converters, the choice depends on you. Free tools are quite suitable for one or two conversions at a time. For larger volumes, or added security, dedicated software like SysTools is much more accurate. Select a method that fits into your working environment best.

This way you will save a lot of time and won’t have to deal with formatting issues. Try with one file first and find out which tool is suitable for you!