PDF Conversion Issues

Keyboard Shortcut to Export PDF to RTF in Adobe Acrobat

Amos GikundaAmos Gikunda Oct 28, 2026 869 views

Question details

The user wants to find or create a keyboard shortcut to quickly export PDF files to RTF format in Adobe Acrobat DC.

How to Export a PDF to RTF in Acrobat with Keyboard Shortcuts
Product
Adobe Acrobat DC
Device & OS
not provided
Scenario
Repeatedly exporting PDF documents to Rich Text Format (RTF) and needing a faster, automated keyboard-driven method.
Observed behavior
Seeking a built-in keyboard sequence or a custom script solution to streamline the PDF to RTF export process.
Before you start

Ensure your PDF document is not protected by permissions passwords that restrict copying, editing, or exporting the file contents.

Solution 1Recommended

Use Built-in Menu Keyboard Sequences

Utilize the default Windows menu accelerator keys in Acrobat to navigate the export menu without a mouse.

While Adobe Acrobat does not feature a single built-in hotkey specifically for exporting to RTF, you can trigger the export process quickly using sequential menu accelerator keys on Windows.

1
Open the PDF

Launch Adobe Acrobat DC and open the PDF file you wish to export.

2
Access the File Menu

Press 'Alt+F' on your keyboard to open the main File menu.

3
Navigate the Export Options

Press 'H' to navigate to 'Export To', then press 'M' for 'More Formats', and finally press 'R' to select 'Rich Text Format'.

4
Save the Document

The Save As dialog box will appear. Type your desired file name and press Enter to save the RTF file.

Use Built-in Menu Keyboard Sequences
Sequential Keys: Unlike simultaneous shortcuts (like Ctrl+C), menu accelerator keys must be pressed sequentially. Press and hold Alt and F, release, then press H, M, and R in order.
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WPS Office offers a dedicated and user-friendly PDF tool that makes converting PDF to Word, RTF, or Text documents incredibly fast, without the need for complex scripts or sequential hotkeys.

  1. 1. Launch WPS Office: Open WPS Office and click on the 'PDF to Word' tool in the workspace.
  2. 2. Add PDF Files: Drag and drop your PDF files into the conversion window, or click to browse your computer.
  3. 3. Select Output Format: Choose 'RTF' or 'DOC/DOCX' as your preferred output format at the bottom of the window.
  4. 4. Start Conversion: Click the 'Start' button to instantly convert the PDF and open the resulting editable document.
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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I export only specific pages of a PDF to RTF?

Yes, during the export process in Acrobat, you can specify a page range instead of exporting the entire document. Click the Settings icon in the Save As dialog to adjust the page range before saving.

Why does the Alt key sequence not work on a Mac?

Menu accelerator keys (using Alt + a letter) are a Windows-specific operating system feature. Mac users cannot use this method and typically need to set custom shortcuts via macOS System Settings under Keyboard > Shortcuts > App Shortcuts.

Does exporting to RTF preserve images and formatting perfectly?

Exporting to RTF retains basic text formatting, fonts, and colors. However, highly complex layouts, precise vector graphics, and high-resolution images might not be perfectly preserved compared to a standard Word (DOCX) export.

Is there a single default shortcut for PDF to RTF in Acrobat?

No, Adobe Acrobat does not have a single default hotkey combination (like Ctrl+Shift+R) for exporting to RTF. You must use the sequential menu keys or create a custom JavaScript to achieve a one-step shortcut.