How to Count Words in a PDF: Detailed and Effective Methods

Last update: 07/02/2025
Author Isaac
  • Specialized tools such as Adobe Acrobat or UPDF allow for accurate counting.
  • There are fast and effective online methods for small or non-editable documents.
  • The conversion to Word makes it easy to count words using conventional word processors.

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If you have ever needed to know the exact number of words in a document in PDF format, PDF, you've probably found that it's not as simple as it seems. Unlike word processors, PDF files They do not usually include a tool to do this count directly. However, there are several methods and tools that will allow you to perform this task in a Management. Here we will explore all the possibilities, from fast solutions to more advanced options.

The PDF format, created by Adobe, has become a standard for sharing documents due to its capacity to maintain the original format regardless of the software or device on which it is opened. But its structure is more focused on visualization than on edition, which complicates tasks such as counting words. Let's break down the better ways to overcome this inconvenience.

What is a PDF file and why is it difficult to count its words?

The PDF format, or Portable Document Format, was developed by Adobe in 1993 to allow uniform viewing of documents regardless of software or hardware used. However, its structure does not prioritize the edition or content analysis, which includes the function of counting words.

There are different types of PDFs, such as those created digitally from word processors, those containing scanned images, and hybrids, which combine editable text with images. Identifying the type of PDF is key to choose the appropriate counting method, as some may require technologies such as optical character recognition (OCR).

Methods for counting words in a PDF

The task of counting words in a PDF can to be addressed different ways, and choosing the right method will depend on the type of document and the tools available. Here we explore the most common options. Wines and effective.

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Using specialized software such as Adobe Acrobat

Adobe Acrobat is one of the most popular tools powerful to work with PDFs, but surprisingly it doesn't include a direct word counting feature. However, you can use its option to export the document to Word format (DOCX) and then do the counting in Microsoft Word. These are the steps:

  • Open the PDF file in Adobe Acrobat.
  • Select the “Convert” option from the top menu.
  • Choose “Microsoft® Word” and then “Convert to DOCX.”
  • Save the converted document and open it in Word to see the count at the bottom. less from the screen.

This method is ideal for digitally created PDFs as it maintains the format, although in more complex documents there may be certain changes.

Counting words with Microsoft Word

Microsoft Word has a built-in function to make a automatic counting of words, characters, lines and paragraphs. If you have already converted the PDF to Word, seeing the count is very simple:

  • Open the document in Word.
  • Look at word count at the bottom left or click for more details.

It is a tool Areas and reliable, especially for those who require a count detailed of the document.

Count words directly with online tools

On the Internet, there are several pages that offer services to calculate the number of words in a PDF. These tools can be useful when you do not want to install additional software. Some of the most regions are:

  • Online Word Counter: Allows you to upload a PDF file and displays the number of words, lines and characters. Ideal for documents small, as it accepts files up to 12 MB.
  • Kennis Counter: An interesting option that supports multiple files while providing a detailed summary of the total count.
  • PDF Word Count: Very simple and fast, but limited to 2 MB documents.

These tools are a excellent option If you are looking for speed and do not need too much analysis detailed.

Using apps like UPDF and WPS Writer

UPDF and WPS Writer are alternatives traineeships to count words in PDF documents. UPDF, for example, includes advanced features like OCR for working with scanned PDFs. The process with UPDF can include steps like to copy the text and use functions of Artificial Intelligence to perform the count automatically.

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For its part, WPS Writer converts PDFs to editable formats and allows for analysis. detailed of the content. An advantage of WPS is that it includes information informationas the There estimated reading.

Other methods for specific cases

In certain cases, you may need specific tools, such as when the PDF is a scan or is password protected. Here are some solutions:

  • Scans: Use an OCR program to convert the PDF into editable text before counting the words.
  • Password protection: If the file restricts actions such as copying or editing, it will be necessary to unlock it with specific tools.

It is always important to check the legality the use of these tools and obtain the necessary permissions.

What is the best tool to count words in PDF?

The choice of tool depends on your specific needs. If you want a quick and easy solution, online tools are a viable option. If you are looking for precision and control over the content, programs such as Adobe Acrobat, PDFelement or UPDF are more suitable. Finally, for specific cases, conversion to Word using Adobe or Google Docs may be enough.

Choosing the right methodology will depend on the context and type of PDF file you are working with. Counting words in a PDF document no longer has to be a complicated task.