The Four Best Ways to Open DOC Files

The first way you should always try to open file extension DOC is to double-click it, but when that doesn’t work, there are a few other things you can try. There are lots of programs that can open different file extensions, and there are some simple ways you can tell which one to use.

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Pick the Right Program

Start by choosing the right program to open your DOC file. A few of the most common programs used to open DOC files are listed below. One of them should be able to open your DOC file.

  • BIFF File
  • DisplayWrite 4 File
  • Document or Documentation
  • Perfect Office Document
  • Interleaf Document Format
  • Mastercam Material Files
  • Maybe RTF
  • Palm Pilot DOC File Format
  • Word Document
  • Word DOT File
  • FrameMaker/FrameBuilder Document
  • DeskMate Document

Note the File Type

Other programs may be able to open your DOC file, depending on the type of file it is. You can find the file type listed in the file’s properties. On a Windows PC, right-click the file, click "Properties", then look under “Type of File.” On a Mac computer, right-click the file, click “More Info,” then look under “Kind”.

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Tip: If it’s the DOC file extension, it probably falls under the Text Files type, so any program used for Text Files should open your DOC file.

Ask the Developer

Contacting the software developer is another easy way to get help opening a DOC file. You can find the developers for the most common programs used to open DOC files in the list below.

Software Developer
BIFF File Microsoft Corporation
DisplayWrite 4 File Windows Programmer
Document or Documentation Unknown
Perfect Office Document Perfect Office
Interleaf Document Format Windows Programmer
Mastercam Material Files CNC Software Inc.
Maybe RTF Windows Software
Palm Pilot DOC File Format PC Software Company
Word Document Microsoft Corporation
Word DOT File Microsoft Corporation
FrameMaker/FrameBuilder Document Adobe Systems Incorporated
DeskMate Document Microsoft Developer

Use a Universal File Viewer

When all else fails, a universal file viewer is the best way to open a DOC file. Programs like File Magic (Download) can open many different types of files, depending on the format. Although, some files may not be compatible with these programs. If your DOC file isn’t compatible, it will only open in binary format.


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1File types that are unsupported can be opened in binary format.

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