ODS to PDF: A Complete Guide to Seamless Conversion
No matter if you’re managing personal finances or analyzing business data, spreadsheets are backbone of many workflows. For this OpenDocument Spreadsheet (ODS) files are used quite commonly, but they aren’t always the easiest file to share. That’s where ODS to PDF conversion is so useful. After all, PDF is universally accepted, easy to view, and preserves formatting across devices. In this post, we’ll talk about the why and how to convert ODS to PDF.
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Let’s get started!
Why ODS to PDF Conversion?
There are a number of practical benefits with converting ODS files to PDF. With this, your spreadsheet will be compatible on any device without any errors. Meanwhile, formatting is preserved for PDFs, which make for perfect sharing and presentation of data. It will alos give the data a more professional feeling and will add a layer of security that gives your documents that edge.
- Universal Accessibility: PDFs, by contrast, do not need special software like LibreOffice or OpenOffice to open; anyone anywhere on any device has access to the PDF.
- Preserved Formatting: Once you’ve converted your spreadsheet from ODS to PDF, the spreadsheet will always look like it did when it was the real deal, regardless of who opens it and where.
- Secure Sharing: PDFs are able to password protect, increasing security of sensitive data even more.
- Professional Presentation: PDFs are polished, easy to print and thus ideal for formal reports and presentations.
How to Convert ODS to PDF – 5 Approaches
There are many ways to convert ODS files into PDF. It depends on what you need to do, what tools are available and which among them you prefer. Below are the top ways to make the conversion process smooth.
Approach 1: Professional Software
We recommend using a professional software like SysTools Document Converter. The reason it is so good for users who handle bulk conversions and big projects is because it’s not only relatively quick but also does not require a lot of set-up. Especially when used with multiple ODS files.
- Bulk Conversion: With this software, you can convert multiple ODS files to PDF in one shot.
- Advanced Options: Page orientation, layout, password protection, etc. can be set at custom settings.
- Easy to Use: It is user friendly so that even the beginners can go through the software easily.
Download the free demo version of the software here:
Steps to convert multiple ODS files to PDF:
- Download software and launch it.
- Add multiple ODS files into the software with either “Add Folder” or “Add File” option.
- View the preview of added ODS files in the next window.
- After that, apply the settings accordingly (PDF is set as export by default).
- To start the process click the Export button.
Approach 2: LibreOffice
This free and open source office suite essentially makes it super easy to convert ODS files to PDF. If you’re after a proper desktop solution, this is a very good option. Just keep in mind that you will need to export one file at a time.
- Open LibreOffice Calc.
- Go to File > Open and select the ODS file.
- Then go to File > Export As > Export as PDF.
- Setting like page range, compression or password protection can be customized.
- Name your file and click Export.
LibreOffice is designed to work with OpenOffice document formats. So, it supports ODT and ODS file and keeps the original formatting in them. It makes it extremely useful in creating PDF file with original formatting.
Approach 3: Microsoft Excel
While the default format in Microsoft Excel is XLS and XLSX, Microsoft Excel also supports ODS files. Thus, allows you to simply convert your spreadsheet to a PDF document.
- Open your ODS file in Excel.
- Navigate to File > Save As.
- Select File Format as PDF and click Save.
As an ODS file is slightly different from XLSX, some formatting may shift when opened in Excel. When you convert, it is a good idea to double check your document first.
Approach 4: Online ODS to PDF Converters
They are also a great alternative if you don’t have desktop software installed. They’re quick, easy to use, and do not require downloads.
- Go to the converter’s web site.
- Upload your ODS file.
- The output format should be selected as PDF.
- Download the converted file.
SmallPDF, Zamzar, and Online2PDF are popular online software that provide an easily usable interface and support for multiple formats. Always use trusted platforms not to leak your data, especially sensitive documents.
Approach 5: Google Sheets
You have another simple but powerful option at your fingertips: convert ODS files to PDF with Google Sheets. If you already have a Google account, this method seamlessly fits into your workflow.
- Put your ODS file on Google Drive.
- Open it with Google Sheets.
- Move your mouse over File and select Download then PDF Document (“.pdf”).
- Download the file.
Google Sheets provides easy access and can be used by cloud users as long as you have a Google account and an internet connection.
Choosing the Best Method for You
Each method has its pros and cons, so it’s important to choose one that fits your specific needs:
- Professional Software: Suitable for frequent conversions and files having extensive formatting.
- LibreOffice & MS Excel: Suitable for single file conversion and offline usage.
- Online Tools: Suitable for infrequent, few conversion and on mobile devices.
- Google Sheets: It’s perfect for people who already use Google’s ecosystem.
Conclusion
It is quite a hassle to convert ODS to PDF when you have no idea about the practical approaches. Whether you’re using professional software, LibreOffice, Microsoft Excel, or an online tool, the process is straightforward and ensures your data is accessible, secure, and professionally presented. Next time you need to share a spreadsheet, try converting your ODS file to PDF and let your recipients thank you!