How to Convert XML to PDF – A Step-by-Step Guide

Most people who work with XML files are familiar with their effectiveness in storing structured data. XML (eXtensible Markup Language) files are the perfect blend of using tags to organize data in a hierarchical structure.

However, an XML file is not the best format for sharing and presenting data. Users can easily convert XML to PDF (Portable Document Format) to generate professional-looking documents that are easy to share, present, and view.

In this guide, you will get step-by-step instructions to convert XML file to PDF document regardless of your requirements. These methods will help you with single conversion, bulk conversion, using codes for conversion, free conversion, and more.

Table of Contents:

• Why Do People Want to Open XML File in PDF?
• How to Convert XML to PDF Format? Top Methods
• #1: With MS Word
• #2: Open XML File in PDF using Notepad++
• #3: Using Python Code
• #4: Online XML to PDF Converter Tool
• #5: Professional Tool
• Key Features to Open XML File in PDF Format:
• How to Convert XML to PDF Format? All Working Steps
• FAQs About XML to PDF Conversion
• Conclusion

Let’s get started.

Why Do People Want to Open XML File in PDF?

People convert XML to PDF for several practical reasons:

I. Presentation and Readability

• XML files have a systematic form, but do not have good layout design.
• PDFs maintain a single layout that is compatible with all devices and operating systems
• Enhances the readability of the information by other users and non-computerized technologies.

II. Document Sharing

• PDF files are platform independent, and the PDF format is well accepted by all software applications.
• People who receive the messages do not require a special XML reader or any other application to view them.
• Preserves EXACT formatting with the shared files

III. Professional Documentation

• Transforms complex leading indicator XML data into an elegant report
• Document in XML and generate end-user manuals
• Create customer-facing documents out of XML data

IV. Archiving

• PDF files are more suitable for document archiving since they are less susceptible to incompatibility issues.
• Slightly more stable format for record-keeping
• Can also be signed electronically to ensure that they are original documents.

V. Printing

• PDF files are compatible with most print settings
• When printed, it retains its layout generously.
• Better page layout control

VI. Security

• Can lock a PDF with password.
• Can restrict editing in PDF documents.
• Supports the protection of XML-sensitive data every time it is shared.

How to Convert XML to PDF Format? Top Methods

We can convert XML files to PDF format using MS Word, Notepad++, Python Code or Scripts, Online converters, and the best XML to PDF converter for experts. Firstly, we have explained all the manual methods, and then we will move to the software and will understand why XML to PDF converters are better than using manual methods.

#1: With MS Word

1. Locate your XML files.
2. Right-click on any XML file to open.
3. Choose “Open With” >> “Word” option.
4. Your XML file data will open in MS Word.
5. Now select the “File” tab from the top.
6. Select the “Print” button.
7. Select the “Microsoft Print to PDF” and choose the “Print” icon.
8. Browse the location for your output PDF file.
9. Lastly, select the “Open” button to convert XML to PDF format.

#2: Open XML File in PDF using Notepad++

1. Same, open your XML file in Notepad.
   
2. After opening the file, choose the “File” tab.
3. Select the “Print” button from the list.
   
4. Choose the Printer as the “Microsoft Print to PDF” option.
   
5. Select any location according to you and save it.
   

And successfully, your XML file will convert into PDF format.

Drawbacks

• Neither methods don’t support bulk XML to PDF conversion.
• You have to repeat the same process for each XML file.

#3: Convert XML to PDF Using Python Code

If one is a developer or has a close coding background, programming is a good way for XML to PDF conversion as it gives full control over the process. Here’s a basic step-by-step outline using Python scripts:

Step 1: Start importing required resources.

import xml.etree.ElementTree as ET

from fpdf import FPDF

Step 2: Parse the XML file

tree = ET.parse('file.xml')

root = tree.getroot()

Step 3: Initialize PDF object

pdf = FPDF()

pdf.add_page()

pdf.set_font(‘Arial’, size=12)

Step 4: Copy and Paste to PDF

for element in root:

pdf.cell(200, 10, txt=f”{element.tag}: {element.text}”, ln=True)

Step 5: Save the PDF

pdf.output('output.pdf')

The FPDF library is exploited here to convert the above XML content into a PDF form. You can style it using formatting if you wish or use XSLT stylesheets for styling.

You can also use Python to convert xHTML to PDF; however, the scripts may differ from the one provided here.

Pros:

• Complete flexibility.
• Automates repetitive tasks.

Cons:

• To use it, the user needs to have some programming skills.
• It can additionally be extra time-intensive, especially for non-programmers.

#4: Online XML to PDF Converter Tool

The conversion through the direct use of online tools is the easiest method if one wishes to perform a quick conversion and wishes not to install any software. Here’s how you can convert XML to PDF online for free:

1. Select an Online Converter, like Zamzar, Convertio or Online-Convert as they provide XML to PDF conversion.
2. Go to the website of the tool and open the XML file.
3. Some tools offer additional choices. Use them if required.
4. Once the conversion is done, download the PDF file and verify it.

Pros:

• No installation required.
• Fast and user-friendly.

Cons:

• There is little choice in customization.
• Concerns when uploading data that may be accessed by unauthorized persons.

#5: Convert XML to PDF in Bulk: Professional Tool

Install the SysTools XML Converter Tool to change multiple XML files to PDF format in bulk without restrictions and limitations. This software offers advanced capabilities that make it the first choice of all experts. The simple interface attracts users and makes it easy to use for all users. Also, there is no need for technical knowledge to convert XML to PDF format in bulk.

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Key Features to Open XML File in PDF Format:

• It can convert XML files into 10+ different formats like SQL Scripts, CSV, DBF, JSON, HTML, DOC, XLSX, TXT, ACCDB, MDB, including PDF format.
• It holds all the original XML file data like tags, codes, attributes, elements, links, text, etc.
• Allows to selection of the destination to save output data files within or out (through external media) the machine.
• This XML to PDF converter allows users to customize the features and settings of this tool by contacting us through live chat support.

How to Convert XML to PDF Format? All Working Steps

1. Download & install, and run the XML to PDF converter tool.
   
2. Either add XML files or add a folder that contains one or more XML files.
   
3. If your folder has unwanted files, then you can select them and remove using the “Remove” button.
   
4. Now, find and choose the “PDF” option as your saving type.
   
5. Select any location if you want to choose any other path using the “Change” button.
   
6. After all settings, select the “Export” button to convert XML to PDF format and, select the “OK” button.
   
7. And lastly, choose the “View Report” to open the selected path with the output data file.
   

Important Note: If you have multiple document formats and want to preserve and keep them as PDF format, then download and install the SysTools Document Converter Tool.

Download Now Purchase Now

Download Now Purchase Now

FAQs About XML to PDF Conversion

Q) Can I convert XML to PDF for free?

Ans: Of course, there are many free ways to transform XML to PDF format using MS Word, Notepad++, and online converters. And if you are a technical person, you can go for Python code. But all these methods have drawbacks and restrictions. Because all these methods can convert only a single XML file at a time.

Q) Is my data safe when using an online converter?

Ans: Most file-sharing websites promise to safeguard your documents, but it is safer to use offline software or coding to protect your information. After all, we can’t see what is happening with our uploaded files.

Q) Which is the most suitable tool for XML to PDF conversion on a large scale?

Ans: SysTools’ professional tool is perfect for performing multiple conversions at once. For example, it can convert more than a single file at a time and yet do so while maintaining the format.

Q) Is it compulsory that I must be a coder so that I can easily convert XML files into PDF?

Ans: No, coding is not necessary. The conversion can be done by user-friendly tools, such as software, or you can even use online tools. Coding is only necessary where you want to take a step further and customize a lot.

Conclusion

Converting XML to PDF is not as daunting as it appears. Here, we have introduced multiple solutions, like as MS Word, Notepad++, an online tool, a professional software, a reporting tool, or simply writing your scripts using Python to get the job done. You can opt for any solution based on your requirements and skill level. Finally, using the step-by-step instructions given in this article, you can easily change your simple XML files to professional PDF documents with ease.