RTF (Rich Text Format) is a document file type developed by Microsoft Corporation, supported by standard Word processor tools. RTF files enable universal document sharing across different Word processors and computer operating systems. As a sophisticated version of plain text, they require minimal memory space for storage and ensure safe text document transmission over networks, saved with a .rtf file extension.
Advantages of RTF files:
- Virus-free, unaffected by macro viruses that can corrupt Word files in MS Word.
- Small file size allows fast uploading, downloading, and document transmission via email.
- Easily created or converted to other formats, like DOC, in Microsoft Office Word by changing the file extension on Mac OS X or Windows.
Despite being virus-free, RTF files may still be lost on Macintosh systems under certain conditions.
Common scenarios for RTF file loss on Mac OS X:
- Unintentionally deleting files from the Trash folder.
- Accidentally deleting files via Mac terminal using the ‘rm’ command.
- Pressing the command+option+shift+delete keys, emptying the Trash folder without confirmation.
- Erasing RTF files from external storage devices on Mac OS.
- Wiping the hard drive using Disk Utility, removing all files, including RTF files, on Mac.
If RTF files are lost on Mac OS X, don’t panic. Use the Time Machine utility to restore files from an updated backup. If the files aren’t in Time Machine, use a reliable tools like Yodot Mac file recovery application to retrieve RTF files on Mac.
Which is the best recovery tool to retrieve RTF files?
Choosing the right recovery tool can be challenging due to potential risks. Opt for a safe and secure option like Yodot Mac File Recovery, an advanced tool for Mac users. It uses read-only algorithms to ensure safe RTF file recovery without altering original file contents.
Beyond RTF files, this tool recovers deleted or missing ASD document, xlsx, exe, txt, html, xml, jpeg, mpeg, pdf, ppt, and more on Macintosh systems. It retrieves files from Mac system drives, iMac, Mac Mini, MacBook Pro, MacBook Air, external hard drives, pen drives, FireWire drives, iPods, and other devices.
Extract your lost / erased RTF files through these steps:
- Download Yodot Mac file Recovery software on your Mac computer
- Follow the instructions to install and launch the tool
- In the main screen, you will see “Deleted File Recovery” and “Lost File Recovery” options
- Select either of them based on the RTF file loss situation
- Next screen gives you a list of logical drives / volumes present on your Mac machine
- Click and select the volume from which RTF files should be restored back
- By clicking “Next” the tool starts to scan the selected volume
- Recovery status can be viewed through status bar
- Software provides a list of all recoverable files after completion of scanning process
- Preview the file contents in Data View or File type View
- Select the files that have to be recovered, specify new location on the drive and click on “Save”
Conclusion:
If you can’t find .rtf files or lack backups in Time Machine or iCloud, use a reliable recovery tool like Yodot File Recovery software to retrieve deleted .rtf files.
Frequently Asked Questions:
1: How to convert RTF to PDF on Mac?
Open the RTF file in TextEdit, go to File > Export as PDF, and save.
2: How do I convert RTF file to DOCX?
Open the RTF file in Microsoft Word, go to File > Save as, and select DOCX format.
3: What is the difference between RTF and RTFD?
RTF is a text-based format for simple documents; RTFD supports richer content like images and attachments.
Suggestions:
- Follow proper methods while accessing RTF files on Mac
- Before erasing any files from drive, cross check whether it is the right one to delete
- Try to have multiple backup of essential files
