Document Editing Problems

How to Fill Out and Edit an RTF Document Easily

John Wilson Oct 19, 2026 870 views

Question details

The user needs to know how to complete a form and edit text content that is saved in the Rich Text Format (RTF).

How to Fill Out and Edit an RTF Document Easily

Product: Word Processor
Device & OS: not provided
Scenario: Opening an RTF document to fill out fixed fields, enter information, or modify the existing rich text layout.
Observed behavior: The user requires straightforward instructions on how to properly open, modify, and save the RTF file without losing its intended formatting.

Before you start

Ensure you have a fully featured word processor installed, as opening an RTF file in a basic text editor (like Notepad) will display raw formatting code instead of the actual document layout.

Solution 1Recommended

Open and Edit Using a Word Processor

Use a compatible word processor like WPS Writer or Microsoft Word to open and directly edit the contents of the RTF file.

RTF (Rich Text Format) files are universally supported by almost all major word processing software. Opening the file in a dedicated writer application allows you to type directly into the document, adjust styles, and save your progress effortlessly.

Locate the RTF File

Find the RTF document on your computer, right-click the file, and hover over 'Open with'.

Select Your Word Processor

Choose Microsoft Word, WPS Writer, or WordPad from the list of available applications.

Fill Out the Form

Click into the designated blank spaces or form fields within the document and type your information.

Save the Changes

Go to 'File' > 'Save' or press 'Ctrl + S' on your keyboard to save the completed document.

Preserve Formatting: Saving the file normally will keep it in the RTF format. If you want to use advanced features later, you can choose 'Save As' and select the standard '.docx' format.

Solution 2

Convert to a Fillable PDF for Complex Forms

If the RTF form contains complex layouts that shift when you type, converting it to a PDF ensures the document remains structurally intact.

Seamless Document Editing

Open, Edit, and Convert RTF Files with WPS Office

WPS Office offers a comprehensive, free word processor that fully supports viewing and editing RTF documents. Whether you need to fill out a simple text form, format paragraphs, or export your document to a secure PDF, WPS Writer provides all the tools you need in a familiar interface.

1. Install WPS Office: Download and install the free WPS Office suite on your device.
2. Open the RTF File: Launch WPS Writer, click on 'Menu' > 'Open', and select your RTF document.
3. Edit and Fill Out: Use the intuitive editing ribbon to type text, adjust fonts, and complete the form.
4. Save or Export: Click 'Menu' > 'Save As' to save your work, or choose 'Export to PDF' if you need a fixed-layout version.

Fully compatible with Microsoft Word document formats (.doc, .docx, .rtf)Built-in PDF converter to lock form layouts with a single clickLightweight software that runs smoothly on Windows, Mac, and LinuxFree to use with an intuitive and familiar ribbon interface

microsoft office alternative - wps office

Frequently Asked Questions

What exactly is an RTF file?

RTF stands for Rich Text Format. It is a universal document file format developed by Microsoft that allows for basic text formatting like bolding, italics, custom fonts, and custom text colors, which makes it more versatile than plain text (.txt) files.

Why does my RTF file look like a bunch of code when I open it?

This happens if your computer defaults to opening RTF files with a basic text editor like Notepad. To see the actual formatted document, you must right-click the file, select 'Open with', and choose a word processor like WPS Writer, Microsoft Word, or WordPad.

Can I convert an RTF document into a standard Word (.docx) file?

Yes. Open the RTF file in your word processor, click on 'File' or 'Menu', select 'Save As', and choose 'Microsoft Word Document (.docx)' from the file type dropdown menu before clicking save.

Will I lose my formatting if I save an RTF file after editing?

No, as long as you open and save the file using a compatible word processor, your rich text formatting (fonts, bolding, colors) will be preserved natively within the RTF format.

Document & File Issues