What is a WPD file?
A file using the .wpd extension is specifically known as a WordPerfect Document (WPD). This format serves as the native file type for documents created within Corel’s WordPerfect software, a powerful and historically significant word processing application. Distinguished from other text formats, WPD files are engineered for precision and are compatible across various computer platforms, most notably the Windows operating system.
The WPD file contains structured data, and the documents can store various embedded objects such as graphs and graphics developed in other applications. WPD documents also include mail merge elements, which allow information from an external entity, such as a spreadsheet or database, to be inserted into a design. You can double-tap a WPD file and every other document on your PC to open it. If your document associations are accurate, the application designed to open your .wpd document will do so.
Brief History
WordPerfect for Mac was not developed in parallel with editions for other software applications and thus used version numbers that were unrelated to current releases for Os and Windows. Version 2 was a complete revamp that adhered more closely to Apple’s user interface principles.
Version 3 expanded on this, making substantial use of the technology introduced by Apple in Systems 7.0–7.5 while staying speedy and capable of working effectively on earlier machines. Version 3.5 was launched in 1996, followed by the upgraded version 3.5e in 1997. It was never updated after that, and the product was finally phased down. Corel has said that it has no intentions to further develop WordPerfect for Mac as of 2004.
WPD File Format Specifications
WPD documents were primarily used to process prepared text. As a result, those files include text chunks. Tags are used to contain formatting information, which WordPerfect recognizes as code. This makes finding formatting issues much easier because the application highlights areas of the text and exposes the inherited formatting. WPD documents, like more popular word processing file types such as DOC, can incorporate data from different sources such as files, databases, or designs.
References
Key Characteristics of the WPD File Format
| Characteristic | Description |
|---|---|
| File Extension | .wpd |
| Proprietary Corel Format | The WPD file is the proprietary document format for Corel WordPerfect Office, analogous to DOC for Microsoft Word. |
| “Reveal Codes” Foundation | Its most defining characteristic is the integration of the Reveal Codes system, allowing users to see and edit every formatting command directly. |
| Niche Professional Use | It maintains a strong, loyal user base in law firms, government agencies, and academia due to its precision and powerful features tailored for long-form, complex documentation. |
| Stability and Precision | WPD files are renowned for their stability and precise rendering of complex layouts, especially for documents requiring strict formatting rules. |
| Backward Compatibility | Corel WordPerfect places a high emphasis on backward compatibility, often allowing modern versions to seamlessly open WPD documents created decades ago. |
FAQ
Q1: What program opens a WPD file?
A: The primary program is Corel WordPerfect Office, but it can also be opened by LibreOffice, Microsoft Word (with possible formatting loss), and some dedicated file viewers.
Q2: Can I convert a WPD file to a PDF?
A: Yes, the easiest method is to open the WPD file in WordPerfect and use its “Publish to PDF” function, which preserves formatting accurately.
Q3: Is the WPD format still relevant today?
A: Absolutely, especially in legal, government, and academic fields where its advanced formatting controls and Reveal Codes are considered essential tools.
Q4: Why does my WPD file look different in Microsoft Word?
A: Microsoft Word does not natively support WordPerfect’s unique features like Reveal Codes, which can lead to formatting discrepancies or loss during conversion.
Q5: How can I ensure a WPD file’s formatting is preserved?
A: For perfect fidelity, always open and edit WPD files in Corel WordPerfect. For sharing, export to a format like PDF to “lock in” the intended appearance.
