How to convert PDF to Word with online OCR tools?

UPDATED: Jun 22, 2025

In our fast-paced digital world, the need to convert PDF documents into editable Word files has become increasingly important, especially when dealing with handwritten notes and documents. Online OCR (Optical Character Recognition) tools have emerged as valuable resources that facilitate this conversion process, allowing users to efficiently digitize and edit text extracted from scanned images. Whether you're a student, professional, or simply someone looking to organize handwritten notes, understanding how to convert PDF to Word with online OCR tools can significantly enhance your productivity and document management capabilities.

1. Scan the Handwritten Notes to PDF File.
   The first step in the conversion process is to scan your handwritten notes or documents into a PDF file. Use a scanner or a smartphone with a scanning app to capture clear and legible images of your notes. Ensure that the scanned images are well-aligned and free from any shadows or distortions to achieve the best OCR results.
2. Choose the Tool According to Your Needs: Plain Text vs. Formatted Text.
   Once you have your notes scanned into a PDF, the next step is to select an online OCR tool that suits your needs. Pen to Print offers two main options: Handwriting OCR for plain text conversion and Document AI for formatted text conversion. Choose Handwriting OCR if your document is primarily handwritten text, and opt for Document AI if your PDF contains more complex formatting or structured content.
   Handwriting OCR Converter

   Document AI Formatter
3. Drag and Drop the Scanned PDF into Pen to Print's Online OCR Input Box and Convert.
   Upload or drag and drop the scanned PDF into the designated area. Upload up to 50 pages at each session and continue to extract the text from PDF to Word.
4. Review the Text vs. the Scanned Notes.
   After the conversion is complete, review the extracted text against your original scanned notes. This step is recommended to ensure that the OCR tool has accurately captured the content. Check for any discrepancies or errors in the text, particularly with handwritten documents where handwriting styles might vary.
5. Make Corrections, if Needed.
   If you notice any mistakes or inaccuracies during your review, make necessary corrections to maintain the integrity and accuracy of the converted text.
6. Download as Word to Your Device, Where You Can Edit, Search, and Store.
   Once you are satisfied with the accuracy of the converted text, download the document in Word format to your device. By doing so, you have transformed your handwritten notes into a fully editable Word document, which you can now easily edit, search for specific information, and store digitally for future reference.

Converting PDF to Word using online OCR tools provides a practical and efficient way to digitize and edit handwritten or scanned documents, thus enhancing productivity and document management. With solutions like Pen to Print's online OCR tools, users can seamlessly transform their handwritten notes into editable Word files, ensuring that valuable information is not only preserved but also made accessible for further use and collaboration. By following the outlined steps, anyone can quickly master the process and enjoy the benefits of a more streamlined and organized digital workflow.