How to Batch Convert PDFs to Word Using Acrobat Pro 2017 Action Wizard
Question details
The user needs to batch convert multiple PDF files into Word documents using the Acrobat Pro 2017 Action Wizard, but the Word export option is not visible by default.
- Product
- Adobe Acrobat Pro 2017
- Device & OS
- not provided
- Scenario
- Setting up an automated batch process to convert multiple PDFs into editable Word documents instead of processing them one by one.
- Observed behavior
- The Action Wizard initially displays image export formats but lacks a direct option for converting PDFs to Microsoft Word without manual configuration.
Ensure you have gathered all the PDF files you want to convert into a single test folder to streamline the batch configuration process.
Configure Action Wizard to Export as Word
Manually add a Save command to your Action Wizard sequence and specify Microsoft Word as the output format.
By default, the Action Wizard might not show Microsoft Word in its initial quick-export list. You must manually add a save step and modify its settings to output a .docx file.
Launch Adobe Acrobat Pro 2017, navigate to the Tools menu, and open the Action Wizard.
Click the 'Save' command in the command list on the left panel, then click the right-arrow button in the center to add it to your action.
Select the newly added 'Save' command in your action steps and click 'Specify Settings' underneath it.
In the settings dialog, change the output format to Microsoft Word and configure your preferred destination folder.
Run the newly configured action on a test folder containing a few PDFs before processing your entire batch of files.
Batch Convert PDFs to Word with WPS Office
Skip complex wizard configurations. WPS Office features a dedicated, easy-to-use PDF to Word converter designed specifically for high-speed batch processing while maintaining excellent format retention.
- 1. Open the PDF Toolkit: Launch WPS Office and navigate to the 'PDF' tab on the main interface.
- 2. Select PDF to Word: Click on the 'PDF to Word' option in the top toolbar to open the conversion dialog.
- 3. Add Multiple Files: Click 'Add Files' and select all the PDF documents you wish to batch convert.
- 4. Start Batch Conversion: Choose your desired save path and click 'Start' to convert all files simultaneously into editable Word documents.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why doesn't Action Wizard show Word as an export option initially?
The Action Wizard prioritizes default saving operations or image formats on its main interface. Exporting to Word requires you to add a generic 'Save' command and manually adjust its format parameters to Microsoft Word.
Will batch converting PDFs preserve the original layout?
Yes, standard conversions attempt to preserve text layouts, fonts, and tables. However, highly complex PDFs with layered graphics might require minor manual adjustments in Word after conversion.
Can I use the same method to batch convert PDFs to Excel?
Yes. Follow the same Action Wizard configuration steps, but choose 'Microsoft Excel Spreadsheet' instead of Word when configuring the 'Specify Settings' dialog.
What happens if a PDF in the batch is password-protected?
The batch process will pause or fail for that specific file. Ensure that all PDF files in your batch folder are unlocked or have permissions set to allow conversion before running the Action Wizard.
