ODT File Extension

What is ODT file?

Files with the ODT extension (Open Document Text), are editable text documents of the ODF format series (Open Document Format), created by some types of text editors compatible with OpenOffice. It is a basic text file format for text processors of this series. ODT files are stored as ZIP packages, based on XML format, containing data on text, styles, images, macros, and many others.

Support for ODT files

ODT files are supported by editors such as Apache Office Writer, LibreOffice Writer, or component programs of suites such as: NeoOffice, AbiWord, Kword.

Theoretically, ODT format is supported also by Microsoft Word, however, in this case, some red error may occur. Microsoft Word program enables to save created documents in the ODT format. It is also possible to import ODT file into Google Documents.

Structure of an ODT file

Structure of each ZIP package for files of the ODF series (in this case – ODT), comprises of at least 5 files:

1. a single line MIME file, which contains a string of text
2. content.xml file– content of the document and some basic information about styles
3. styles.xml file – extended information about styles (text orientation, spaces, page layout)
4. meta.xml file – metadata for each document (e. g.: author, last modification or title)
5. settings.xml file – program settings, for example – window size.

Programs which support ODT file extension

The list that follows enumerates programs compatible with ODT files, divided into 3 categories based on operating system on which they are available. ODT files can be encountered on all system platforms, including mobile, yet there is no guarantee each will properly support such files.

Updated: 09/27/2023

How to open file with ODT extension?

There can be multiple causes why you have problems with opening ODT files on given system. What is important, all common issues related to files with ODT extension can be resolved by the users themselves. The process is quick and doesn’t involve an IT expert. We have prepared a listing of which will help you resolve your problems with ODT files.

Step 1. Get the Apache OpenOffice

Problems with opening and working with ODT files are most probably having to do with no proper software compatible with ODT files being present on your machine. The most obvious solution is to download and install Apache OpenOffice or one to the listed programs: Microsoft Word, WordPerfect Office, LibreOffice. The full list of programs grouped by operating systems can be found above. The safest method of downloading Apache OpenOffice installed is by going to developer’s website (Apache Software Foundation) and downloading the software using provided links.

Step 2. Update Apache OpenOffice to the latest version

If you already have Apache OpenOffice installed on your systems and ODT files are still not opened properly, check if you have the latest version of the software. It may also happen that software creators by updating their applications add compatibility with other, newer file formats. If you have an older version of Apache OpenOffice installed, it may not support ODT format. The latest version of Apache OpenOffice should support all file formats that where compatible with older versions of the software.

Step 3. Set the default application to open ODT files to Apache OpenOffice

If the issue has not been solved in the previous step, you should associate ODT files with latest version of Apache OpenOffice you have installed on your device. The process of associating file formats with default application may differ in details depending on platform, but the basic procedure is very similar.

Selecting the first-choice application in Windows

• Choose the Open with entry from the file menu accessed by right-mouse clicking on the ODT file
• Next, select the Choose another app option and then using More apps open the list of available applications
• Finally select Look for another app on this PC, point to the folder where Apache OpenOffice is installed, check the Always use this app to open ODT files box and conform your selection by clicking OK button

Selecting the first-choice application in Mac OS

• From the drop-down menu, accessed by clicking the file with ODT extension, select Information
• Open the Open with section by clicking its name
• From the list choose the appropriate program and confirm by clicking Change for all....
• If you followed the previous steps a message should appear: This change will be applied to all files with ODT extension. Next, click the Continue button to finalize the process.

Step 4. Check the ODT for errors

Should the problem still occur after following steps 1-3, check if the ODT file is valid. Problems with opening the file may arise due to various reasons.

1. The ODT may be infected with malware – make sure to scan it with an antivirus tool.

Should it happed that the ODT is infected with a virus, this may be that cause that prevents you from accessing it. It is advised to scan the system for viruses and malware as soon as possible or use an online antivirus scanner. If the ODT file is indeed infected follow the instructions below.

2. Ensure the file with ODT extension is complete and error-free

Did you receive the ODT file in question from a different person? Ask him/her to send it one more time. During the copy process of the file errors may occurred rendering the file incomplete or corrupted. This could be the source of encountered problems with the file. It could happen the the download process of file with ODT extension was interrupted and the file data is defective. Download the file again from the same source.

3. Ensure that you have appropriate access rights

Some files require elevated access rights to open them. Log out of your current account and log in to an account with sufficient access privileges. Then open the OpenDocument Text Document file.

4. Verify that your device fulfills the requirements to be able to open Apache OpenOffice

If the system is under havy load, it may not be able to handle the program that you use to open files with ODT extension. In this case close the other applications.

5. Check if you have the latest updates to the operating system and drivers

Latest versions of programs and drivers may help you solve problems with OpenDocument Text Document files and ensure security of your device and operating system. It may be the case that the ODT files work properly with updated software that addresses some system bugs.

Do you want to help?

If you have additional information about the ODT file, we will be grateful if you share it with our users. To do this, use the form here and send us your information on ODT file.