The ODT file format is one that was developed by Sun Microsystems and is now an open format file type. ODT stands for open document text and therefore, is specific to text documents. However, the overall ODF stands for open document format which includes many different types of file variations that can be opened.

OpenOffice.org and LibreOffice support ODT files natively, and since both are cross platform they can be used to open ODT files easily as well.

One of the problems people find when trying to open an ODT file is that it doesn’t open with their Microsoft Word. The reason for this is because their Word is too old or they haven’t installed a service pack to make the Word up to date. It should be noted that ODT files can be opened on Microsoft Word 2010 as well as the 2007 version as long as service pack 2 is installed along with Microsoft Word.

To open a file, first try and see if you have the updated service pack. If you don’t, go to the Microsoft website and download the Microsoft Word service pack. The best way to find it is to type into Google “Microsoft Word (enter your version) service pack 2.” So, if you have Word 2003, type in Word 2003 Service Pack 2. If you have 2007, type in Word 2007 Service Pack 2. Then, you’ll be able to download it.

How Do I Open an ODT File

Allow the download to complete and then complete whatever installation is needed. If the computer prompts you to restart, do the restart so that the service pack 2 takes precedence over any previous version you have installed. When the computer loads, the new service pack will be available for use by loading Microsoft Word.

Once Word loads, go to the office button and then click open. Locate the ODT file and then double click it. If you installed the service pack correctly, you’ll now have access to the file in front of you. The formatting might be a little off, but for the most part, all the text will be there and you’ll be able to edit and make changes as you see fit.