Edit Microsoft Word documents in Google Drive without changing the format

Edit Microsoft Word documents (.docx) in Google Drive

We store files in Google Drive or Shared Drives because it makes collaboration easier. Files save automatically, version history lives in one place, and there's no need to email attachments or manage multiple "final" versions. We get shared links, comments and real-time collaboration. 

When storing Microsoft Word documents in Google Drive, it can feel like they should be converted to a Google Doc, even if that's not the best choice. Some files are better kept in Microsoft Word format (.docx). 

The good news is that you can edit Word documents in Google Docs without converting them. 

Why keep a file in Microsoft Word format?

You may need Google Drive for collaboration, but the file format still matters. Not every document should become a Google Doc. 

You may want to keep a file in Word format when:

• It is heavily formatted in an Extension template and you don't want to spend time recreating or reformatting it in Google Docs
• It must be shared with people or organizations that require Word files
• It will be printed, submitted, published, or archived as a Word document
• Consistent formatting matters

Google Drive works well as a storage and collaboration space, even when the file format stays Word.

How to edit a Word document in Google Docs (without converting it)

1. Upload the Word (.docx) file to Google Drive or Shared Drives
2. Double-click the file to open it
3. Edit the file and close it when you are finished

As log as you don't choose File > Save as Google Docs, the file remains a Word document.

How to tell a Word file from a Google Doc in Drive

Before editing or sharing, you can quickly confirm which file type you are working with.

In Google Drive or Shared Drives:

• Google Docs use the Google Docs icon and have no file extension
• Word files show a blue "W" icon and usually end in .docx

If you've already opened the file

A Word document will:

• Include (.docx) in the filename at the top
• Show Save as Google Docs as an option under the file menu

NOTE: If you choose “Save as Google Docs,” Google Drive will keep the original Word file intact and create a new Google Doc with the same name. The new file will be converted to Google Docs formatting.

You don't have to choose between using Google Drive for collaboration and converting everything to Google Docs. You can store Microsoft Word files in Drive, edit them in Google Docs, and preserve formatting when it matters.

Article by Karen Matthes, Extension Learning Technologies, klm@umn.edu