How to Convert a Scanned PDF to Word with OCR

A regular PDF contains real text you can select and copy. A scanned PDF is different — it is essentially a picture of a page, so the text is locked inside an image. To make it editable in Word, you need OCR (optical character recognition). Here is how to convert a scanned PDF to Word the easy way.

What is OCR and why do you need it?

OCR is the technology that “reads” the letters inside an image and turns them into real, editable text. Without OCR, converting a scanned PDF would only give you a Word file full of pictures. With OCR, you get words you can actually edit, search, and reformat.

Convert a scanned PDF to Word — step by step

1. Open the tool. Go to our free PDF to Word converter.
2. Upload the scanned PDF. Drag and drop it, or browse to select it from your device.
3. Convert. Click “Convert PDF to Word.” OCR runs automatically on scanned and image-based pages.
4. Download and review. Open the DOCX in Word or Google Docs and check the recognised text.

How to get the most accurate OCR results

• Use a high-quality scan. 300 DPI or higher gives far better recognition than a blurry photo.
• Keep pages straight. Crooked or skewed scans reduce accuracy.
• Good contrast helps. Dark text on a clean white background is easiest to read.
• Proofread after. OCR is excellent but not perfect — quickly scan for any misread words.

Common uses for scanned PDF to Word conversion

Students digitise printed notes, offices reuse old contracts, and freelancers turn scanned forms into editable templates. Once the text is in Word, you can update and reformat it in minutes.

FAQ

Is OCR included for free?

Yes. OCR runs automatically when you convert a scanned or image-based PDF, at no cost.

What if the scan is low quality?

OCR still works, but accuracy depends on the source. Re-scanning at a higher resolution gives cleaner results.

Next steps: try the PDF to Word converter, and if you are on a phone, see how to convert PDF to Word on mobile for free.