RTF is a way to save text with basic formatting that works across almost any computer
RTF stands for Rich Text Format. It is a file type that stores text along with straightforward formatting — things like bold, italics, font size, and line spacing — in a way that almost any program can read. When you save a document as RTF instead of plain text, you keep the formatting. When you save it instead of Word or Google Docs format, the file stays readable even if the other person does not have those programs installed.
RTF files end with .rtf when you save them. You can open an RTF file in Microsoft Word, Google Docs, Apple Pages, LibreOffice, or even many basic text editors. The format was created by Microsoft in the 1980s specifically to solve the problem of sharing formatted documents between different computers and programs.
Key Takeaways
- RTF keeps basic formatting like bold, italics, and font size, unlike plain text files which strip all formatting away.
- RTF files open in nearly any word processor or text editor, making them useful when you do not know what software the other person has.
- RTF does not support advanced features like tables, images, or complex layouts the way Word or Google Docs do.
- You will most often encounter RTF when sharing documents with people using older computers or when a program specifically asks for RTF format.
When RTF is the right choice
Use RTF when you need to send a formatted document to someone and you are not sure what program they use. If you are sending a resume with bold headings to a company whose hiring system you do not know, RTF is safer than Word format because it will open correctly almost everywhere. If you are sharing a document with someone on an older computer or a less common operating system, RTF is more likely to work than newer formats.
RTF is also useful when you want to keep a document straightforward. If you have written something with basic formatting — a few bold words, different font sizes, maybe some indented paragraphs — and you do not need images, tables, or fancy layouts, RTF will preserve what you have without adding unnecessary complexity.
What RTF cannot do
RTF handles basic text formatting well, but it does not support many features that modern word processors offer. You cannot embed images directly into an RTF file the way you can in Word or Google Docs. Tables are possible in RTF but often do not transfer cleanly between programs. Styles, headers and footers, footnotes, and tracked changes either do not work in RTF or work inconsistently depending on which program opens the file.
If your document needs any of these features, you should use Word format (.docx), Google Docs, or PDF instead. RTF is a lowest-common-denominator format — it works almost everywhere, but it does not do much.
RTF versus other common formats
| Format | Best for | Works everywhere | Keeps formatting |
|---|---|---|---|
| Plain text (.txt) | straightforward notes, code, logs | Yes | No |
| RTF (.rtf) | Basic formatted documents, sharing across programs | Almost always | Yes, basic only |
| Word (.docx) | Professional documents, complex formatting | No — requires Word or compatible program | Yes, fully |
| PDF (.pdf) | Documents that should not be edited, final versions | Yes | Yes, exactly as designed |
| Google Docs | Collaboration, cloud storage, sharing | No — requires Google account | Yes, fully |
How to save a document as RTF
In Microsoft Word, open the document you want to save. Click File, then Save As. In the dialog box that appears, find the dropdown menu that says "Save as type" or "Format". Scroll down until you see Rich Text Format (.rtf) and click it. Choose where you want to save the file and click Save.
In Google Docs, click File, then read, then Rich Text Format (.rtf). The file will read to your computer. In Apple Pages, click File, then Export To, then Rich Text Format. In LibreOffice Writer, click File, then Save As, and choose RTF from the file type list.
Why you might see RTF in the real world
Some older software still uses RTF as a default format. Certain legal document systems, medical record software, and government forms may ask for RTF specifically because it is stable and has not changed much since the 1980s. If a form or system asks you to upload a document and specifies RTF, that usually means they want something straightforward and reliable that will not break when their system processes it.
You may also encounter RTF when working with people who use very old computers or specialized equipment. Some industrial or institutional systems still rely on RTF because it is lightweight and does not require modern software to read.
RTF and security
RTF files are generally safe to open. Because RTF is a straightforward, older format, it does not support the kinds of embedded code or macros that can carry viruses. If someone sends you an RTF file, the risk of it containing malware is much lower than with Word files (.docx), which can contain executable code.
That said, the usual caution applies: only open RTF files from people you trust. A file is only as safe as the source it came from, regardless of the format.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I open an RTF file on my phone?
Yes, but it depends on what app you use. Most phones have a built-in document viewer that can open RTF files. You can also use Google Docs, Microsoft Word, or other word processor apps on your phone to open RTF. The formatting will usually display correctly, though the layout may adjust to fit the smaller screen.
Is RTF the same as a Word document?
No. Word documents (.docx) are more advanced and support features that RTF does not, like complex tables, images, and styles. However, Word can open and save RTF files, and RTF can open in Word. If you need advanced formatting, use Word format. If you need maximum compatibility, use RTF.
Will my formatting stay the same if I convert a Word document to RTF?
Most basic formatting will stay — bold, italics, font size, and colors usually transfer fine. But advanced features like complex tables, images, headers and footers, and styles may not convert cleanly. Test the RTF file in another program before sending it to make sure it looks right.
Why would anyone use RTF instead of PDF?
RTF is editable; PDF is not. If you need to send someone a formatted document they might want to edit or add to, RTF is better. If you want to send a final version that should not be changed, PDF is the right choice.