Rich Text

Rich text is text that supports various types of formatting. Unlike plain text, which consists only of unformatted text, rich text allows the user to apply basic styles like bold, italics, and underlining; they may also change the font, font size, and text color.

Rich text also supports paragraph formatting that lets you change text alignment and line spacing. Automatic list formatting allows both numbered and bulleted lists, with options for numbering and bullet styles. You can add a simple table to a rich text file to show off data. You can also change page layout options to customize the paper size, margins, and page orientation. Some rich text editors even allow you to embed images.

Some of the font formatting possible using rich text
Some of the font formatting possible using rich text

Word processors like Microsoft Word, Apple Pages, and OpenOffice Writer create rich text documents. However, each program has its own proprietary default document format; you must convert a document before opening it in another word processor. The generic Rich Text Format, which uses the .RTF file extension, is the most widely supported among word processors and can be used as an alternative to share a rich text file with any word processor.

Updated March 10, 2023 by Brian P.

quizTest Your Knowledge

ODBC allows applications to access different types of what?

A
Databases
0%
B
Operating systems
0%
C
Internet protocols
0%
D
Servers
0%
Correct! Incorrect!     View the ODBC definition.
More Quizzes →

The Tech Terms Computer Dictionary

The definition of Rich Text on this page is an original definition written by the TechTerms.com team. If you would like to reference this page or cite this definition, please use the green citation links above.

The goal of TechTerms.com is to explain computer terminology in a way that is easy to understand. We strive for simplicity and accuracy with every definition we publish. If you have feedback about this definition or would like to suggest a new technical term, please contact us.

Sign up for the free TechTerms Newsletter

How often would you like to receive an email?

You can unsubscribe or change your frequency setting at any time using the links available in each email.

Questions? Please contact us.