Understanding File Types and Formats

File types affect:

• whether your tutor can open your work
• whether Turnitin or MyLearningSpace accepts your submission
• whether others can edit, comment on, or read your work
• whether your file is accessible to screen reader users
• how clearly and professionally your work is presented

Choosing the wrong file type can cause problems such as submission errors, files that cannot be opened, or formatting issues.

Watch out for these common problems when choosing file types and formats.

• Submitting the wrong format, for example PDF instead of Word, or vice versa.
• Confusing view-only formats such as PDF with editable formats such as Word or PowerPoint.
• Not knowing how to convert files, for example from Pages to Word or from PowerPoint to PDF.
• Using unusual formats from other software, such as .odt, .pages, or .numbers, that staff may not be able to open.
• Assuming PDFs are always the best option, even when a Word file is required.
• Not realising that file types can affect accessibility, especially for screen reader users

Check that:

• you are using the file type required for the task or submission point
• the file can be opened on a different device if needed
• the file type matches what you need it to do, such as editing, commenting, or fixed layout
• unusual file types have been converted before submission or sharing
• the final file still looks correct after conversion
• accessibility has not been reduced by the file format you have chosen