How to Convert PDF to Excel Spreadsheet?: Explained

Why do we need to Convert PDF to Spreadsheet?

PDFs are widely used for sharing documents due to their consistent formatting and compatibility across devices. However, PDFs can be restrictive when it comes to data analysis or editing, especially for tabular data. Here’s why converting PDFs to spreadsheets is essential:

1. Spreadsheets allow you to sort, filter, and perform calculations on data, which is not possible with a static PDF.
2. Converting data into Excel lets you use powerful tools like formulas, charts, and pivot tables for deeper analysis.
3. Unlike PDFs, Excel files can be edited effortlessly, making it easier to update or correct information.
4. Manually extracting data from PDFs is time-consuming. Conversion tools automate this process, saving hours of work.
5. Spreadsheets can be imported into other software like ERP systems, databases, or data visualization platforms for extended functionality.

By converting PDFs into spreadsheets, you unlock the full potential of your data. As a result, it allows faster and more efficient workflows.

How to  Convert PDF to Excel Spreadsheet

Converting PDF files to Excel spreadsheets is a common need for individuals who work with data. However, copying and pasting data manually can be time-consuming and error-prone. Thankfully, there are fast and efficient methods to convert PDFs to Excel while maintaining the accuracy and structure of the data. In the upcoming section, we’ll explore the most effective tools and techniques to make the process seamless, you can prefer online tools, software solutions, or built-in features.

#Method 01: Using Adobe Acrobat to Turn PDF into Excel

Adobe Acrobat provides a reliable and professional tool for PDF-to-Excel conversions. Follow the given steps while you are using Adobe Acrobat to convert PDF to Excel spreadsheet. 

1. Open the PDF in Adobe Acrobat (the Pro version is required for exporting features).
2. Click on “Export PDF” in the right-hand pane.
3. Choose “Spreadsheet” as the export format and select “Microsoft Excel Workbook (.xlsx)“.
4. After that, hit “Export” and save the file to your preferred location.
5. Open the Excel file to review and make adjustments if needed.

Cons:

• Adobe Acrobat requires a paid subscription. It is essential to have a paid subscription to Adobe Acrobat to accomplish the task.

#Method 02: Using Google Drive and Google Sheets

This method is free and works well for basic tables. If you also have basic tables, then you can go for this as well. 

1. Upload the PDF to Google Drive.
2. Open the PDF with Google Docs (right-click the file, select “Open with” > “Google Docs”).
3. Once the PDF content is in Google Docs, copy the data.
4. Open Google Sheets and paste the copied data.
5. Click on File and download the file as an Excel spreadsheet >>Download >> Microsoft Excel (.xlsx).

Cons:

• Limited formatting retention.
• Not suitable for highly complex or graphical PDFs.

#Method 03: Using Online PDF-to-Excel Converters to Convert PDF to XLS

Numerous free online tools can quickly convert PDFs to Excel spreadsheets. Here, we will use Smallpdf to extract specific data from PDF to Excel. 

• Firstly, visit the chosen online converter website.
• Upload the PDF file by dragging and dropping or selecting it from your computer.
• Select “Convert to Excel” as the desired option.
• Download the converted Excel file once the process is complete.

Cons:

• May compromise data privacy (ensure sensitive files are not uploaded).
• Limited formatting accuracy with complex PDFs.
• File size limits in free versions

#Method 04: Using Microsoft Word and Excel to Extract PDF to Excel

This is a free method if you have access to Microsoft Office. MS Word should be preinstalled on your PC. 

• Open the PDF file in Microsoft Word (Word will attempt to convert the file into an editable format).
• Save the file as a .docx file if needed.
• Copy the table or data from Word.
• Open Microsoft Excel and paste the copied data into the spreadsheet.
• Lastly, adjust formatting as necessary and save it for further. 

Cons:

• Time-consuming for large or complex PDFs.
• May require manual cleanup of formatting.

To overcome the limitations of the manual solutions, we will make you introduce to the best PDF-to-Excel converter to convert PDF to spreadsheet. 

#Method 05: All-in-one Direct Solution to Export PDF to Excel

The DRS PDF Converter Tool is a reliable and user-friendly solution to convert PDF documents into various formats, including XLS (Excel spreadsheets). This software is superior for users who need to extract tabular data or manipulate numerical and text data stored in PDFs. Below are the key features and benefits of the software to convert PDF to XLS:

• Ensures accurate and flawless conversion of PDF files into editable Excel spreadsheets, retaining the original formatting, tables, and data structure.
• It allows users to convert multiple PDF files to XLS simultaneously.
• Users can choose specific pages or ranges within a PDF document for conversion.
• Preserve complex layouts, graphs, and tabular data accurately in the resulting XLS file.
• It can handle secured or encrypted PDFs, provided the correct password is entered.
• This software features an intuitive interface that simplifies the conversion process.
• In addition to XLS, it supports conversion to other formats like DOC, PPT, HTML, JPEG, and more.
• Along with these features, it is compatible with all major versions of Windows operating systems. 

Simple Steps to Extract Bulk of Data from PDF to Excel

1. Firstly, download and install the DRS PDF Converter on your screen. 
2. Now, click on the Add File button and select the desired PDF >> Open to add.
3. After that, you will see the selected PDF file in the preview panel >> Next.
4. Now, choose the XLS as the file type and also provide the path to save it. 
5.  If you have a requirement, you can select the additional options accordingly. 
6. At last, hit the Convert button to extract specific data from PDF to Excel. 

Benefits of Using this Software

• Saves time by automating repetitive tasks.
• Eliminates manual data entry errors.
• Enables seamless data analysis and manipulation in Excel.

Conclusion

Converting PDFs to Excel spreadsheets doesn’t have to be a time-consuming or complicated process. With the variety of tools and methods available today, going from built-in software features to specialized third-party applications, users can efficiently extract data and transfer it into Excel for further editing or analysis. Above we mentioned several methods to convert PDF to Excel spreadsheets. Choose the method that best suits your needs based on the file complexity, data sensitivity, and tools available.

Also Read: How to Convert PDF to Google Docs: Step-by-Step Process

About The Author:

Kiran Sharma

I am Kiran Sharma, a Technical Expert in Content writing. I have technical expertise in the field of Email Backup, Data Recovery, and Email Migration, and resolve technical queries related to Cloud Backup or Email Migration for individuals and businesses.

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