What Is an ODT File?

An ODT (OpenDocument Text) file is a type of word processing document, not to be confused with Microsoft Word's DOC or DOCX. It comes from the OpenDocument format, a family of free, open-standard formats for office documents. You can open ODT in Word, Google Docs or special viewers on a mobile.

What an ODT File Is

The OpenDocument format is developed and maintained by the OASIS Open Document Format for Office Applications Technical Committee.

How to Open an ODT File in Microsoft Word

If you're trying to open an ODT file in Microsoft Word, you're in luck - it's compatible, but with a few caveats. Here's how:

1. Open Microsoft Word
2. Click File, then Open, then Browse
3. Find the ODT file you wish to open
4. Before opening, click the file type list showing All Word Documents, select OpenDocument Text, then click Open

Your document should appear, but keep in mind that Microsoft warns that you might see some formatting differences, and that some Word features may not appear.

How to Open an ODT in Google Docs or on a Phone

If you need to work with ODTs, but Word is not on your computer, Google Docs is an option. Google's Docs - the web apps for word processing - can import and edit ODT files, together with a range of other formats including Microsoft's DOC, DOCX, RTF, TXT and HTML. Upload the file to Google Drive with New > File upload, then right-click it and choose Open with > Google Docs.

Your best bet is to download a compatible viewer for your phone - a quick search of the App Store or Google Play should help.

What to Check if the File Won't Open Cleanly

If you can't open an ODT file in either Word or Google Docs, check that your app software is up to date. It's also possible that the file has corrupted. Try opening a different ODT, or converting it to DOCX with another software.

If that doesn't work, consider the file sender may have added security - passwords, or encryption.