Google Docs can download a document as Microsoft Word (.docx), OpenDocument (.odt), Rich Text (.rtf), PDF, plain text (.txt), a web page (.html, zipped), EPUB and Markdown (.md). Go to File > Download and pick the format. The original stays in Google Docs format in your Drive.
Quick Answer
File > Download > choose .docx, .odt, .rtf, .pdf, .txt, .html, .epub or .md.
Steps to Convert a Google Doc
- Open the document in Google Docs.
- Click File > Download.
- Pick a format. The file downloads to your computer.
Download menu listing export formats” />Formats Compared
| Format | Good for | Keeps formatting? |
|---|---|---|
| .docx | Editing in Word | Mostly |
| .odt | LibreOffice and other open-source suites | Mostly |
| .rtf | Older word processors | Basic |
| Sharing and printing exactly as shown | Yes (not editable) | |
| .txt | Plain text only | No |
| .html (zipped) | Web pages, with images in a folder | Partly |
| .epub | E-readers | Reflowable text |
| .md | Markdown for developers and writers | Headings, lists, links |
Other Conversion Tips
- Email a copy: File > Email > Email this file lets you attach it as PDF, Word and other formats.
- Convert many files: In Google Drive, select files, right-click and choose Download; Docs are converted to Word format automatically.
- Import: Opening a .docx in Google Docs lets you edit it directly, or convert it with File > Save as Google Docs.
Troubleshooting
- Layout changes in Word: Fonts or tables may shift. Use PDF if the layout must stay exact. See converting a Google Doc to Word.
- Download greyed out: The owner may have disabled downloads for viewers.
- Pageless documents: Some formats need page settings. See pageless format in Google Docs.
- Going the other way: See converting a PDF to Word with Google Drive.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I download a Google Doc as a JPG?
Not directly. Download a PDF and convert it, or take a screenshot.
Do comments come with the download?
Word downloads usually keep comments; PDF and text don’t.
Can I convert on my phone?
In the mobile app, tap ⋮ > Share & export > Save as or Send a copy and choose a format.
Summary
- Open File > Download.
- Choose from Word, ODT, RTF, PDF, TXT, HTML, EPUB or Markdown.
- Use PDF for exact layout.
- Keep the original in Google Docs.
Kermit Matthews runs Live2Tech from just outside Philadelphia. He is an IT specialist with over 20 years of experience, from a university help desk to small-business IT, IT management and his own consulting practice, and has written tech guides full time since 2020. Steps are checked against the current software on a real device or the maker’s official documentation. More about Kermit.