PDF to CSV FAQ

How do I convert PDF to CSV?

Using our converter is simple:

  1. Go to our PDF to CSV converter
  2. Upload your PDF file (drag and drop or browse)
  3. Wait for the converter to extract table data
  4. Review the preview to verify extracted data
  5. Choose your CSV delimiter and click "Convert to CSV"

Does this tool upload my file?

No. All processing happens entirely in your browser. Your PDF file never leaves your device. We don't upload, store, or have access to your data. This ensures complete privacy and security for your files.

What types of PDFs work best?

The converter works best with PDFs that contain:

  • Structured tables with clear rows and columns
  • Text-based data (not scanned images)
  • Consistent formatting and alignment
  • Clear boundaries between data cells

Scanned PDFs (images) may require OCR (Optical Character Recognition) to extract text, which is not currently supported.

What's the max file size?

For the free in-browser converter:

  • Maximum file size: 10MB

Larger files may take longer to process. If your file exceeds this limit, consider splitting it or using a smaller file.

Can I extract data from scanned PDFs?

Currently, the converter works best with text-based PDFs. Scanned PDFs (images) require OCR (Optical Character Recognition) technology to extract text, which is not currently supported. For best results, use PDFs that contain selectable text.

What if my PDF has multiple tables?

If your PDF contains multiple tables, the converter will attempt to extract all table data. You may need to manually separate the data after conversion, or convert each table separately if they're on different pages.

How accurate is the extraction?

Extraction accuracy depends on the PDF structure. Well-formatted tables with clear boundaries typically extract with high accuracy. Complex tables with merged cells, irregular formatting, or nested structures may require manual adjustment after conversion.

Can I choose the CSV delimiter?

Yes! You can choose between comma, semicolon, or tab as your CSV delimiter. This is useful for compatibility with different systems or regional preferences (some regions use semicolons instead of commas).

What if the extraction doesn't work?

If extraction fails, it may be because:

  • The PDF is a scanned image (not text-based)
  • The table structure is too complex or irregular
  • The PDF is password-protected or encrypted
  • The file is corrupted or in an unsupported format

Try using a text-based PDF with clear table structure for best results.