How to Upload a PDF to Google Docs?

PDF stands for portable document format. However, it’s not as portable as it seems. Despite its versatility, adding PDFs to Google Docs is not possible under normal circumstances. So, today, we’ll learn how to upload a PDF to Google Docs.

How to Upload a PDF to Google Docs?

When you upload a PDF file into Google Docs, the page shows an error message: Selected file [file name.pdf] is not supported for upload. So, you need to use a different approach.

How to Upload a PDF to Google Docs?

The most obvious method of uploading PDFs into Google Docs is by uploading the PDF file to Google Drive. Then, the PDF gets converted to Google Docs. So, you can open the converted file as a Google Doc and make edits as you prefer.

Use Google Drive

Google Drive is the ultimate Google Workspace tool. You can use it to upload a PDF to Google Docs in a matter of minutes. When you do so, it will become a new Google Doc file with your ownership.

  1. Open Google Drive on your web browser.
  2. Click on the New button at the top left side of the page.
  3. Select File Upload.
  4. Navigate to the folder with the PDF file and double-click on it.
  5. Wait for the pdf to upload and right-click on it.
  6. Click on Open with and select Google Docs.

Use External tools

Apart from using Google Drive, you can also upload PDFs to Google Docs using other external sources. 

There are several custom applications or software that you can use to convert your PDF files into docs. You can find those software anywhere on the internet.

Add Just the link

The method mentioned earlier lets you upload your PDF file into Google Docs and edit the converted file in the doc. If you only want to add your PDF into a doc to share it, you can use other methods. 

One of the easiest ways to add and share your PDF file is by adding a link to your file in Google Docs. Then, all the users with access to the doc can view the PDF. However, you cannot edit the PDF using this method.

Attach as an Image

If you want to showcase the PDF file in a Google Doc, you can insert an image of your PDF. Similar to PDF links, you can display your PDF file on the doc but cannot edit it. It is also possible to add PDFs in Docs, Microsoft Word, or other similar files.

Why Can’t I Upload a PDF to Google Docs?

You cannot upload PDFs to Google Docs because Google Docs cannot directly read PDF files. You need to upload the file to Google Drive first. Then, you can view and edit the PDF using Google Docs.

How to Insert a PDF into Google Docs as an Image?

In order to insert a PDF into Google Docs as an image, you need to screenshot the PDF file and then manually add it to Google Docs.

How to Insert File in Google Docs?

You can insert any file into Google Docs using the drag-and-drop method from the file location to Google Docs. Alternatively, you can click on File > Open and select the file you want to insert.

Want to learn more? You can read our article on How to Convert PDF to Google Sheets or How to Use Microsoft Print to PDF.

Liam Johnson
Liam Johnson

Liam is a tech enthusiast with a knack for helping others use the internet and computer software. He focuses on "HOW TOs" and "FIXES" at SpllittzTech to make your experience with technology better each day.

Articles: 37

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *