A cross-platform document format for exchanging formatted text between applications
The Rich Text Format (RTF) is a document file format developed by Microsoft in 1987 as a cross-platform, application-independent way to exchange formatted text documents. RTF serves as a middle ground between plain text files and more complex document formats, offering basic formatting capabilities while maintaining wide compatibility.
Unlike proprietary binary formats, RTF files use a plain text format with special markup codes to denote formatting, making them human-readable (though not easily) and more accessible to different applications. The format allows for styled text, embedded images, tables, and other basic document elements.
While RTF has been superseded by more advanced formats for complex documents, it remains important as an interchange format and is supported by virtually all word processors and many text editors across different operating systems, making it a reliable choice for basic formatted document exchange.
RTF files use a markup syntax with opening and closing braces {} to group control words that define document structure and formatting. Control words begin with a backslash followed by alphabetic characters (e.g., \bold for bold text). This text-based structure makes RTF more open and accessible than binary formats, though less powerful than modern XML-based formats.
RTF is ideal when sharing basic formatted documents across different operating systems or applications. It offers a reliable middle ground between plain text and advanced formats when you need to preserve basic formatting but aren't sure what software the recipient is using.
For documents that need only basic formatting (font styles, sizes, colors, paragraph alignment, simple tables), RTF provides adequate capabilities without the complexity or compatibility concerns of more advanced formats. It's perfect for memos, simple letters, and basic reports.
Many legacy systems and applications use RTF as an output format for automated document generation because of its simplicity and wide compatibility. It's common in healthcare, banking, and government systems that need to generate formatted reports across diverse IT environments.
RTF is often used as an intermediate format for clipboard operations in operating systems. When you copy formatted text from one application to another, RTF is frequently the format used behind the scenes to preserve basic formatting during the transfer.
Many email clients use RTF for formatted email composition and display. Its balance of formatting capabilities and security (no macro support) makes it suitable for email content where HTML might be filtered or considered a security risk.
RTF is broadly supported by word processors:
Many text editors can handle RTF files:
RTF works across major platforms:
Different RTF features have varying levels of cross-application support:
| Feature | RTF | TXT | DOC | DOCX | HTML |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Compatibility | |||||
| Formatting Capabilities | |||||
| Open Format | |||||
| File Size Efficiency | |||||
| Modern Features | |||||
| Human Readability |
RTF occupies a middle ground between plain text (maximum compatibility but no formatting) and advanced formats like DOCX (rich features but more complex). HTML offers similar cross-platform benefits with better modern feature support, while DOC provides more capabilities but with less openness and compatibility.
When converting from Microsoft Word formats to RTF, expect to lose advanced formatting features. Use the "Save As" function in Word and select "Rich Text Format (*.rtf)". Review the document after conversion to check for any significant formatting changes, particularly with complex tables, embedded objects, or custom styles.
Converting from TXT to RTF allows you to add formatting to plain text. Open the text file in a word processor, apply desired formatting (headings, bold, etc.), and save as RTF. This is a straightforward process with minimal complications since you're adding formatting rather than trying to preserve it.
HTML to RTF conversion can be challenging with complex web pages. Basic formatting usually transfers well, but complex layouts and CSS styling may not convert accurately. Use a word processor's import feature or specialized conversion tools, and be prepared to adjust formatting after conversion.
RTF to Word format conversion generally works well for basic documents. Open the RTF file in Word and save in the desired format. The process preserves most formatting, though you may need to adjust styles for optimal results. After conversion, you can take advantage of Word's additional formatting features not available in RTF.
Creating a PDF from RTF produces a fixed-layout document ideal for distribution. Most word processors offer "Export to PDF" functionality, or you can use a virtual PDF printer. For best results, ensure all fonts are properly embedded and check the quality of any images included in the document.
Converting RTF to TXT will strip all formatting, leaving only the textual content. Open the RTF in a word processor and save as "Plain Text" or "Text Only". Most applications will prompt you about character encoding and line break handling during this conversion.