Problem

I want to convert a file to a different file type.

Environment

The article applies to Windows computer users running Windows 10 or newer.

Resolution

To convert a file to a new file type, you have two main options:

Option 1 - Save As/Export:

1. Go to the program you wish to use for editing and open the file you want to change. Now, click on File. For example, if you want to change a DOC file to a different extension, open it with the MS Word program as it allows for editing.
2. From here, select Save or Save As from the menu list. Once the Save As window pops up, you will see the option to change the file type just below the file name
3. Click on the arrow to reveal the drop-down menu, choose the format you want the file to be saved in, and click the Save button.

Option 2 - Rename your file:

1. Launch the Windows File Explorer program on your PC.
2. Right-click on the file you want to change, and from the pop-up menu, select Rename (F2).
3. Now, delete the existing file extension and change it to the new extension of your choice.
4. Hit the ENTER key on your keyboard to confirm your selection.
5. Windows will display a prompt warning that renaming a file’s extension can make the file unreadable. Select OK to confirm that you want to continue. This will save your changes.

Contact Us

If you would like further assistance, please contact us at helpline@gustavus.edu or call us at 507-933-6111.