Depending on the format, a file can be opened or edited with a specific program. The file extension indicates the format.

A text document can have different formats: a file ending in “txt” contains sheer text. A file with the extension “rtf” contains formatted text and can be opened in different text processing programmes.  A text file with the extension “doc” or “docx” indicates a Microsoft Word file. It can also contain formatting or other features. Texts in files with the extension “pdf” can be opened regardless of the operating system and always look the same.

When it comes to images, the file format also influences the quality. People who create digital content choose an appropriate image file format. The Graphics Interchange Format (GIF) takes up little storage space, but it has a limited colour selection. The PNG format is convenient for small images or graphics, because it can be compressed without any loss in quality. In general, the most common image format “jpg” is suitable for images on the internet. 

If it is not possible to open a file format on your device, you may use a so-called converter. These programmes transform files from one format into another.