Converting Files: How to Convert XML to Word

You may often receive a file in XML format, but there is no need to worry. Here is a guide on how to convert XML to Word.

13:07 29 May 2020

Did you know that 1.2 billion people use Microsoft Office? It’s the chosen document processor for a lot of people but it can do more than handle basic .doc files.

If you use XML files for web design, for example, you might want to get snippets for documentation. With little experience, you won’t know how to convert an XML file to a more accessible format. With that, you’ll have problems with your website documentation.

Don’t panic yet, we’re here to help.

In this guide, you’ll learn to convert XML to Word. Read on and find out more.

What is XML?

The .xml file extension means Extensible Markup Language. These are plain text files using custom tags to show the structure and other features within the document. It’s a markup language made by the World Wide Web Consortium (W3C).

This file type serves as a syntax definition for encoding documents in a way both machines and humans understand. It’s possible because of the tags defining the document structure.

The easiest way to understand XML is to compare it with a similar markup language, HTML. This language has a set of markup symbols describing the web page’s content format. For example, simple HTML tags like <b> make the text bold.

What makes XML different is it’s extensible, meaning it lacks the predefined markup language HTML has. XML enables users to make custom markup symbols for content description. This results in an unlimited and self-defining set of symbols.

How to Open XML Files?

You can open XML files directly using some methods, like text editors. Web browsers also allow you to do this, along with websites that enable you to view, edit, or even convert XML to Microsoft Word. Here are some ways.

Text Editor

Since XML files exclusively contain text, you can open them in any text editing software. Most text editors lack the right capabilities to show XML files using their proper structure. Regardless, opening an XML file is easy: right-click the file, pick the Open With option, and look for your desired text editor.

If you’re looking to maintain its formatting, you need more advanced tools. One of these is Notepad++ since it will maintain both the syntax and formats as intended.

Web Browser

Opening XML files using a web browser is great for viewing its structured data. In fact, XML files will often prefer using your default browser as its default viewing app. In most cases, a simple double-click opens the XML file in your browser.

If it doesn’t, use the same method as above. This time, pick your desired browser from the list of available software.

Online Editors

This method is useful if you won’t download a new text editor. With an online editor, you can view and edit these files. Once done, download the edited XML file to your computer or convert it to another format.

How to Convert XML to MS Word

As a plain text file, you have various methods of converting XML to Word. Here are some methods.

Microsoft Word

This is the easiest method of converting XML to Word. Open the MS Word application using the Windows menu. You’ll find it under the Microsoft Office group.

If you installed Microsoft Word for your Mac, you’ll find it in the Applications folder. Regardless of the operating system, go to the File menu and pick Open from the ensuing options. Pick the Computer option if you stored the XML file on your computer.

After opening the file, click the File menu once again. Pick the Save As option and click Browse to open a file browser window.

There, look for the Save as type drop-down menu and pick Word Document from the options. Some computers call this option “Format”, but it’s always at the bottom of the window. Click Save to finish the file conversion process.

Use a Third-Party Software or Online Editors

As stated before, online editors can convert your XML file to a Word document. Lots of reputable sites do this, serving as a hub for converting files of different formats. They’re easy to use since their user interface is intuitive.

Another method is to use third-party software.

Use C# to Make a Word Document from an XML File

This method is for people who know how to use the programming language C#. It has two parts: making the template document for generation and use C# code to make the documents using the template.

First, make a sample XML since it serves as the basis for the Word template. Once done, save the XML file to an accessible location for later importation. Open Microsoft Word and enable the Developer tab before making a Word document.

Go to the Developer tab and pick the XML Mapping Pane option. This makes it appear on the right side of the document. You’ll see the Custom XML Part option, where you’ll click the Add New Part option.

Pick the XML file saved beforehand and press Open. This will allow you to add all fields necessary for the next step. Add static text and put a Plain Text Content Control beside it.

After making the template for the XML file, go to the Microsoft website and get the OpenXML SDK. This helps generate Word documents using XML files with real data. This helps delete CustomXMLPart elements from the document while making new ones using your template.

Convert XML to Word Today.

These are some methods to open and convert XML to Word. Use the method most applicable to your situation and technical expertise to ensure a smooth conversion.

Of course, you shouldn’t stop here. Discover more tech-savvy tips and tricks by taking a look at more of our content.