How to Open DOCX in 2003 Word: An Effective Method

In the first versions of Microsoft Word, released from 1997 to 2003, there was a DOC format, it was in it that all the documents were saved. But over time, the developers decided to use a more progressive one - DOCX and DOCM, which began to be used with the release of the 2007 version.

Open DOCX in Word 2003

This article will discuss how to open DOCX in 2003 Word. An effective method that is easily implemented will be presented. In fact, everyone will be able to perform, regardless of computer knowledge, because all you need to be able to do is install file packages. And if you use the instructions attached below, you won’t have any questions at all.

Install Compatibility Packs

If you do not know how to open DOCX in 2003 Word, then follow the detailed instructions and you will succeed.

First of all, it will be necessary to download and install a special compatibility package. It is he who will help to open DOCX files for Word 2003. What is worth noting is that this package can be downloaded in various ways. The first is the most trivial. When you open a new version file in the program, you will be shown a message stating that the file is incompatible with the program since it was created in the new version. You will also be prompted to download the compatibility package. You just have to click on the "OK" button, and the download will begin, and after it the automatic installation.

The second method is more time-consuming, but it gives a one hundred percent guarantee that DOCX files will open. You need to visit the official Microsoft website, where you can manually download the presented package. You will be taken to the download page. Click the "Download" button, and after downloading open and install the package.

Now you know how to open DOCX in 2003 Word. However, you should pay a little attention to another problem.

DOCX File Differences in Word 2003

You already know how to open DOCX in 2003 Word, but after the file is opened, you may encounter some inconsistencies. Now briefly about them:

1. The numbering that appeared in later versions will be replaced by Arabic numerals.
2. The inscriptions and all kinds of figures are converted into the effects that are in 2003 Word.
3. Text effects will not appear on sheets at all.
4. The replacement text in all tables will also be deleted.
5. New fonts will be reset to standard.
6. WordArt effects will be deleted.
7. All themes will become styles.
8. The inserted charts will become pictures.
9. Formulas entered in a special constructor will become pictures.

And this is only part of the inconsistencies. But in any case, if you want to open DOCX in 2003 Word purely for extracting information, then you can do it without effort.