What are the default file formats for Microsoft Word documents?

The default file formats for Microsoft Word documents depend on the version of Word you are using :

1. Modern Versions (Word 2007 and Later) :
  • .docx → Default format for Microsoft Word documents (XML-based, smaller file size, better compatibility).
2. Older Versions (Word 97–2003) :
  • .doc → Default format before Word 2007 (binary format, larger file size).
3. Other Common Word Formats :
  • .dotx → Word Template (used for reusable document templates).
  • .docm → Word Macro-Enabled Document (for documents with macros).
  • .rtf → Rich Text Format (compatible with multiple word processors).
  • .txt → Plain Text (no formatting).
  • .pdf → Portable Document Format (read-only format).