## The Three Main Document Formats
### DOCX — Microsoft Word Open XML
The business standard. A ZIP archive with XML inside:
- Supported by Word, Google Docs, LibreOffice, Apple Pages
- Supports macros, complex styles, embedded charts
- Best for: business docs, resumes, formal reports
### ODT — OpenDocument Text
The ISO open standard, native to LibreOffice:
- Patent-free, no vendor lock-in
- Best for: open-source environments, long-term archival, EU government
### RTF — Rich Text Format
Microsoft's 1987 interoperability format:
- Compatible with virtually every text editor ever made
- No macros, larger file size (uncompressed)
- Best for: legacy systems, maximum cross-platform exchange
## Comparison
| Feature | DOCX | ODT | RTF |
|---------|------|-----|-----|
| Open standard | Partial | ISO | Yes |
| Macros | Yes | Yes | No |
| Compatibility | High | Medium | Very high |
| File size | Small | Small | Large |
| Word support | Native | Good | Good |
| LibreOffice support | Good | Native | Good |
## Which to Choose
- **DOCX**: Working with Microsoft Office users or need Word-specific features
- **ODT**: LibreOffice primary editor, open-source environment, archival
- **RTF**: Maximum compatibility with unknown or legacy systems
## Converting Between Formats
```bash
# LibreOffice CLI
soffice --convert-to odt document.docx
soffice --convert-to docx document.odt
soffice --convert-to rtf document.docx
# Pandoc
pandoc input.docx -o output.odt
pandoc input.odt -o output.rtf
```
## Conversion Caveats
- DOCX to ODT: may lose Word-specific styles and table formatting
- ODT to DOCX: may alter list styles or line spacing
- Anything to RTF: loses macros, complex embedded objects
Always keep the original in its native format.
Guide