Editing a PDF on a Mac using Word might sound tricky, but it’s quite straightforward when you break it down. You’ll need to convert the PDF into a Word document first, then make your desired edits. Finally, you can save it back as a PDF. Let’s walk through the steps to make it happen.
How to Edit a PDF on Mac in Word
In this section, I’ll show you how to convert a PDF to a Word document, edit it, and save it back as a PDF. These steps will help you make all the necessary changes without losing any important formatting.
Step 1: Convert PDF to Word Document
First, you’ll need to open the PDF file in Word.
To do this, open Word, click on "File," select "Open," and then choose your PDF file.
When you open the PDF, Word will automatically convert it into an editable Word document. This might take a few seconds, especially if the PDF is large or has a lot of images.
Step 2: Edit the Document
Now that the PDF is a Word document, you can start editing.
Make your changes just like you would with any other Word document. Adjust text, images, or formatting as needed.
Editing in Word is pretty intuitive. You can change fonts, add or delete text, insert images, and more. Just make sure you review all your changes to ensure everything looks good.
Step 3: Save as PDF
Once you’re done with the edits, you need to save the document back to a PDF.
Click on "File," then "Save As," choose PDF from the format options, and click "Save."
Saving it as a PDF will preserve your changes in the format you need. It’s a simple but crucial step to ensure your document is ready to be shared or printed.
After completing these steps, you’ll have an edited PDF ready for use. The changes you made in Word will now be reflected in the PDF, and you can easily share or print it as needed.
Tips for Editing a PDF on Mac in Word
- Always keep a copy of the original PDF before converting it. This way, you have a backup if anything goes wrong.
- Use Word’s "Review" feature to track changes, especially if you’re collaborating with others.
- Check the formatting after conversion. Sometimes, PDFs don’t perfectly translate to Word documents.
- Use high-quality PDFs. Low-resolution images and text can become blurry or distorted when converted.
- Explore Word’s editing tools. Insert tables, headers, and footers to make the document look professional.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I edit any PDF in Word?
Most PDFs can be edited in Word, but complex formatting or very old PDFs might not convert perfectly.
Will the formatting change after converting the PDF?
Sometimes. Always review the document after conversion to check for any formatting issues.
Is there a limit to the size of the PDF I can convert?
Large PDFs may take longer to convert, and very large files might not convert at all. Try breaking them into smaller sections if needed.
Do I need any special software to convert PDFs to Word?
No, Word on Mac can handle the conversion automatically. Just open the PDF within Word to start the process.
Can I save the document in other formats?
Yes, Word allows you to save documents in various formats, including PDF, DOCX, and more.
Summary
- Open Word and select your PDF file.
- Word converts the PDF to an editable document.
- Edit the document as needed.
- Save the edited document as a PDF.
Conclusion
So there you have it! Editing a PDF on a Mac in Word is not as daunting as it might seem. By following these steps, you can easily make changes to any PDF document. Remember to always keep a backup of your original file and review your edits thoroughly to ensure everything looks just right.
If you found this guide helpful, don’t hesitate to explore more of our how-to articles. Editing PDFs can be a breeze with the right tools and a bit of know-how. Happy editing!

Kermit Matthews is a freelance writer based in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania with more than a decade of experience writing technology guides. He has a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Computer Science and has spent much of his professional career in IT management.
He specializes in writing content about iPhones, Android devices, Microsoft Office, and many other popular applications and devices.