LibreOffice Writer: Create a Document and Export It as PDF
Create a document using an open-source office suite and generate a PDF for distribution while preserving the original ODT. This guide covers installation, practical steps, limitations, and how to stop using the app.
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Who this guide is for and what to prepare
- First-time users of LibreOffice
- People who want to check the storage location and safety of data while reducing manual work
What you need
- Check the processing target and storage location, and preserve the original data in another location
- Check the official distribution source, supported OS, and required permissions
When to use it
Create a document using an open-source office suite and generate a PDF for distribution while preserving the original ODT.
Install the official version
- Select the version that matches your OS and CPU from libreoffice.org/download, and check the Japanese UI and save format.
Try it
Apply title and heading 1 styles in Writer. [Insert] → Add [Page Number]. Save the ODT manuscript with [Save As]. Check the range and image compression with [Export as PDF]. Open the PDF and check fonts, page breaks, and links.
- Apply title and heading 1 styles in Writer
- [Insert] → Add [Page Number]
- Save the ODT manuscript with [Save as]
- Check range and image compression with [Export as PDF]
- Open a PDF and check fonts, page breaks, and links
Use it safely
Complex layout compatibility with Microsoft Office formats is not perfect. Separate the original format and distribution format and check font substitution.
Turn it off or restore settings
Manuscripts that continue to be edited are saved in ODT and kept separate from the PDF for distribution. If you want to change the settings and re-output, open the ODT, make the changes, and export the PDF under a different name to compare it with the distributed version. When closing the app, respond to the confirmation to save the document.
Limitations and requirements
- Complex layout compatibility with Microsoft Office formats is not perfect. Separate the original format and distribution format and check font replacement
- Check the current specifications in the official documentation and reconfirm on-screen what you want to delete or overwrite.
Frequently asked questions
Is DOCX fully compatible with Word?
Not fully compatible. Fonts, page breaks, tables, special features, etc. may differ from how they appear in Word, so check them in the actual document before co-editing.
Can I directly repair the PDF later?
Edit the source ODT in Writer and export the PDF again. If you edit the PDF directly, the layout may be disrupted, so leave the original manuscript.
Official sources and verification date
Sources checked: . Check the official sources below for changes to supported systems, plans and menus.