Convert RST to RTF
Max file size 100mb.
RST vs RTF Format Comparison
| Aspect | RST (Source Format) | RTF (Target Format) |
|---|---|---|
| Format Overview |
RST
reStructuredText
Lightweight markup language developed by the Python community in 2001. Primary format for Python documentation, Sphinx, and Read the Docs. Emphasizes simplicity and readability with explicit, consistent syntax for technical documentation. Python Standard Sphinx Native |
RTF
Rich Text Format
Cross-platform document format developed by Microsoft in 1987. Designed for document interchange between different word processors and platforms. Supports formatting, images, and basic document structure while remaining text-based. Cross-Platform Universal |
| Technical Specifications |
Structure: Plain text with indentation-based syntax
Encoding: UTF-8 Format: Docutils markup language Processor: Sphinx, Docutils, Pandoc Extensions: .rst, .rest, .txt |
Structure: Tagged text with control words
Encoding: 7-bit ASCII with escape sequences Format: Microsoft Rich Text Format Processor: Word, LibreOffice, TextEdit Extensions: .rtf |
| Syntax Examples |
RST syntax (Python-style): Document Title
==============
Introduction
------------
This is **bold** and *italic* text.
* First bullet point
* Second bullet point
.. code-block:: python
print("Hello")
|
RTF structure: {\rtf1\ansi
{\fonttbl{\f0 Times;}}
\f0\fs24
{\b Document Title}\par
\par
{\b Introduction}\par
This is {\b bold} and
{\i italic} text.\par
\bullet First bullet point\par
\bullet Second bullet point\par
}
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| Version History |
Introduced: 2001 (David Goodger)
Maintained by: Docutils project Status: Stable, actively maintained Primary Tool: Sphinx (2008+) |
Introduced: 1987 (Microsoft)
Latest Version: RTF 1.9.1 (2008) Status: Stable, legacy format Primary Tool: Microsoft Word, WordPad |
| Software Support |
Sphinx: Native support
Docutils: Reference implementation Pandoc: Full support IDEs: PyCharm, VS Code (extensions) |
Microsoft Word: Full support
LibreOffice: Full support TextEdit (Mac): Native support WordPad: Native support |
Why Convert RST to RTF?
Converting reStructuredText (RST) documents to Rich Text Format (RTF) enables sharing formatted documentation with users who may not have specialized documentation tools. RTF's universal compatibility means your documentation can be opened and edited on virtually any operating system without additional software.
RTF serves as an excellent intermediate format when you need to share documentation with non-technical stakeholders. While RST is ideal for developers and technical writers, business users often prefer familiar word processor formats. RTF bridges this gap by preserving formatting while ensuring wide accessibility.
For organizations with legacy systems or strict software policies, RTF provides a reliable solution. Unlike proprietary formats that require specific software versions, RTF documents can be opened with built-in applications like WordPad on Windows or TextEdit on macOS, making it ideal for enterprise environments.
The conversion preserves RST's semantic structure while adding visual formatting. Headers become styled headings, emphasis becomes bold or italic text, code blocks receive monospace formatting, and lists are properly rendered with bullets or numbers.
Key Benefits of Converting RST to RTF:
- Universal Compatibility: Opens on any operating system without special software
- Formatting Preservation: Maintains headers, emphasis, lists, and structure
- Easy Editing: Recipients can modify content in any word processor
- Email Friendly: Lightweight format suitable for email attachments
- Print Ready: Direct printing from any RTF-compatible application
- Legacy Support: Works with older systems and applications
- No Dependencies: No internet or special software required to view
Practical Examples
Example 1: Basic Document Conversion
Input RST file (readme.rst):
Project Documentation ===================== Overview -------- This project provides a **powerful** solution for data processing with *high performance*. Features -------- * Fast processing engine * Easy configuration * Extensible architecture
Output RTF file (readme.rtf):
Formatted Document: PROJECT DOCUMENTATION (Large, Bold Heading) Overview (Medium Bold Heading) This project provides a powerful (bold) solution for data processing with high performance (italic). Features (Medium Bold Heading) * Fast processing engine * Easy configuration * Extensible architecture
Example 2: Technical Documentation with Code
Input RST file (api_guide.rst):
API Quick Start
===============
Installation
------------
Install the package using pip::
pip install mypackage
Basic Usage
-----------
.. code-block:: python
from mypackage import Client
client = Client()
result = client.process(data)
.. note::
Ensure you have Python 3.8+ installed.
Output RTF rendering:
API QUICK START (Title formatting)
Installation (Heading formatting)
Install the package using pip:
pip install mypackage (Monospace font)
Basic Usage (Heading formatting)
from mypackage import Client
client = Client()
result = client.process(data)
(Monospace font, possibly with background)
Note: Ensure you have Python 3.8+ installed.
(Formatted as callout or indented block)
Example 3: Structured Report
Input RST file (report.rst):
Quarterly Report ================ Executive Summary ----------------- Key achievements this quarter: 1. Launched new product line 2. Expanded to 3 new markets 3. Increased revenue by 25% Detailed Analysis ----------------- +----------+--------+--------+ | Metric | Q3 | Q4 | +==========+========+========+ | Revenue | $1.2M | $1.5M | +----------+--------+--------+ | Users | 10,000 | 15,000 | +----------+--------+--------+
Output RTF structure:
QUARTERLY REPORT (Title)
Executive Summary (Heading)
Key achievements this quarter:
1. Launched new product line
2. Expanded to 3 new markets
3. Increased revenue by 25%
Detailed Analysis (Heading)
+----------+--------+--------+
| Metric | Q3 | Q4 |
+----------+--------+--------+
| Revenue | $1.2M | $1.5M |
| Users | 10,000 | 15,000 |
+----------+--------+--------+
(Formatted table with borders)
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What is Rich Text Format (RTF)?
A: RTF is a document format developed by Microsoft in 1987 for cross-platform document interchange. It encodes formatted text, images, and basic document structure in a text-based format that can be read by virtually all word processors.
Q: Will my RST formatting be preserved?
A: Yes, RST formatting is converted to equivalent RTF formatting. Bold and italic text, headers, lists, code blocks, and tables are all preserved with appropriate styling in the RTF output.
Q: What programs can open RTF files?
A: RTF is supported by Microsoft Word, LibreOffice Writer, Google Docs, Apple TextEdit, WordPad (Windows), and virtually every word processor. It's one of the most universally compatible document formats.
Q: How are RST code blocks handled?
A: Code blocks are converted to monospace (fixed-width) font sections in RTF. Depending on the conversion settings, they may include background coloring or borders to distinguish them from regular text.
Q: Can I edit the RTF after conversion?
A: Absolutely! RTF is a fully editable format. You can open it in any word processor and modify text, formatting, and structure just like any other document.
Q: Are images included in the RTF?
A: Yes, images referenced in RST documents are embedded into the RTF file. They become part of the document and don't require separate files to display properly.
Q: Is RTF suitable for printing?
A: Yes, RTF documents can be printed directly from any compatible application. The formatting translates well to printed output, making it suitable for creating hard copies of documentation.
Q: How does RTF compare to DOCX?
A: RTF is older and more universally compatible but has fewer advanced features. DOCX supports more modern formatting, revision tracking, and complex layouts. RTF is better for simple, universally accessible documents.