About the Rtf file format
- Name
- Rich Text Format File
- Extension
- .rtf
- Format
- Text
- Category
- Document
- Developer
- Microsoft
- Description
- An RTF file is a common text file format that supports "rich text." It includes several types of text formatting, such as bold type, italics, different fonts and font sizes, and custom tab settings. RTF files also support objects and images, such as .JPG and .PNG files, saved within the text file.
- MIME Type
- text/richtext
- Sample
- sample.rtf
- Wikipedia
- .rtf on Wikipedia
Rich Text Format File (RTF) is a file format developed by Microsoft Corporation. RTF was in existence between 1987 to 2008. Microsoft Word and Microsoft Office applications were updated based on RTF specifications.
It was used for the exchange of documents across Microsoft products as well as for editing and formatting texts. These features make it outstanding when compared to other similar formats. Information documents, instructions, manuals, resumes, and letters use RTF for basic formatting.
Most word processors are capable of reading and writing RTF versions. Though the format is not in a markup language, it can share and save documents. RTF codes consist of human characters, making them human-readable.
When RTF was first released, Microsoft Word and other word processors used binary formats. As a result, this allowed control for programs that were non-RTF aware. However, after RTF became obsolete, the programs adopted the XML format.
RTF file creates a WordPad editor in Microsoft Windows by default. Mac OS X and Text Edit editors were also able to edit, view, and save RTF files.
Currently, it’s used with all e-readers in the market. Thanks to its low CPU processing requirements, simplicity, and interoperability features. Also, it’s able to retain special characters and support text formatting and reflowing, making it a better option than TXT.