Have you tried copying symbols or math equations from a PDF to Word or Google Docs, only to end up with unreadable boxes or strange characters?
These issues are typically caused by font encoding problems, missing fonts, or even glitches in outdated software.
Luckily, we’re here to help you fix these issues quickly and efficiently using Edit PDF and a few additional techniques.
By the end of this article, you’ll know:
- Why these errors occur
- How to copy symbols from a PDF without losing formatting
- Step-by-step instructions for fixing and adding symbols in Word and Google Docs
- Bonus tips to make the process smoother!
Why Do Symbol Copy-Paste Issues Happen?
Symbol copy-paste problems can feel frustrating, especially when you're working with math equations, chemistry symbols, or special characters. Here are the most common reasons this happens:
1. Missing or Unembedded Fonts
If the font used in the PDF isn’t embedded (saved within the PDF file), other apps like Word or Google Docs may not recognize it, leading to display issues.
2. Unique or Non-Standard Fonts
Some PDFs use custom fonts that aren’t widely supported, making symbols appear as boxes or question marks.
3. Character Encoding Errors
Improper encoding when the PDF is created can lead to unreadable characters when symbols are copied.
4. Software Rendering Glitches
Older PDF viewers or outdated software versions may misinterpret files, causing errors when copying symbols.
No worries — we’ve got tested fixes for these problems below!
How to Copy Symbols Between PDFs and Word/Google Docs (Without Errors)
Here’s how to tackle this issue step by step:
Step 1: Use Smallpdf’s Edit PDF Tool
Smallpdf makes it simple to resolve symbol display problems. Here’s what to do: 1. Upload Your PDF: Go to Edit PDF and upload the file with symbols you can’t copy correctly. 2. Edit Problematic Symbols: Use the editing features to replace corrupted or unrecognizable symbols with standard ones. 3. Save and Download: Save your updated PDF and download the corrected version. Now, when you copy symbols, they’ll work as expected!
Replace Corrupted or Unrecognizable Symbols With Standard Ones
Step 2: Insert Symbols Manually in Word
If correcting the PDF isn’t enough, you can add symbols directly in Word using these steps: 1. Open Your Word Document. 2. Go to Insert > Symbol > More Symbols. 3. Browse and select the desired symbol from the provided list. 4. Click Insert to place the symbol in your document.
Tip: For frequently used math symbols, save them to Quick Access for faster use!
Step 3: Insert Symbols Manually in Google Docs
Google Docs has special features for inserting symbols. Here’s how to do it: 1. Open Your Google Doc. 2. Navigate to Insert > Special Characters. 3. Search for the symbol by name (e.g., “degree”) or draw it in the provided box to find matches. 4. Click the symbol to insert it in your document!
Insert Symbols Manually in Google Docs
Tip: Want more control over symbol placement? Drag it to the exact spot where you need it.
Additional Tips to Prevent Symbol Errors
Boost your workflow with these extra tips:
1. Use Unicode or ASCII Codes
Instead of copying, you can insert symbols using their Unicode or ASCII codes. For example, press Alt + 0176 for the ° (degree) symbol in Word.
2. Avoid Copying from Scanned PDFs
Scanned documents are essentially images and don’t contain actual text or symbols you can copy. Use our PDF to Word converter to extract editable text and symbols.
3. Check Font Compatibility
Ensure the fonts used in the PDF are standard (like Arial or Times New Roman) to prevent rendering issues when copying into Word or Google Docs.
4. Keep Your Software Up-to-Date
Outdated PDF viewers or Word processors may mishandle fonts and symbols. Update your tools regularly for smooth performance.
Take Control of Your Symbols with Smallpdf
Copying symbols between PDFs, Word, or Google Docs doesn’t have to be a headache. With Smallpdf, you can fix symbol errors, streamline your workflow, and keep your documents looking professional.
FAQs
How do I copy math equations from a PDF to Word?
Use a PDF editor like Smallpdf to replace unrecognizable symbols first. Then, convert the PDF to Word, ensuring all equations are editable.
How do I copy math symbols from a PDF?
If the math symbols appear incorrectly, try uploading the PDF to Edit PDF, fix any symbol errors, and re-copy them into your document.
How do I copy symbols from a PDF to Word?
Fix the symbol errors in the PDF using Smallpdf’s Edit PDF, or insert symbols manually in Word via Insert > Symbol > More Symbols.
How do I add a PDF symbol in Word 2013?
Insert the symbol manually by going to Insert > Symbol or copy it from a corrected PDF using tools like Smallpdf.
How do I copy a figure from a PDF to Word?
Highlight the figure in the PDF, copy it, and paste it directly into Word. If issues arise, use Edit PDF to fix the file first.
