It uses the OpenDocument Format (ODF) file extension by default, but it also supports other documents formats, including DOC, DOCX, and RTF, so compatibility shouldn’t be an issue. Which is always appealing.Ĭurrently, LibreOffice Writer offers most of the features and formatting options you find in MS Word. And if you’re one of those people who really hate the ribbon in MS Word, you may even prefer it! LibreOffice is, after all, a set of open-source programs that mimics the general appearance and functions of the Microsoft Office suite. If you have used Microsoft Word for a while, LibreOffice Writer should feel reassuringly familiar. Another advantage of being online is collaborative working, as multiple users can edit a single shared document at the same time, saving the hassle of sending drafts back and forth. Google Docs is linked directly to Google Drive, too, so it autosaves your work with every keystroke. It’s also simple, free, and lets you download documents in multiple file formats, including DOC and DOCX. All you need is a Google account in order to write, format, and share documents. If any program can challenge Microsoft Word for its crown, it will be Google Docs. What if you can’t afford or don’t like Word, though? Good news! There are other word processors available, so check out our list of five free alternatives to Microsoft Word to find a program that suits your needs. But Microsoft Word is the world’s most widely used word processor, found in homes, schools, and offices everywhere. Sure, some Apple fans are loyal to Pages.

Microsoft Word is the undisputed champion of modern word processing.

Open source microsoft word