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Copy Table from PDF to Excel with Formatting (Easiest Way in 2024)

In this article, we will show you how to copy and paste a table from a PDF to Excel without losing its formatting using Lido. Simply follow the steps below.

Copy PDF Table to Excel with Formatting

To copy a table from a PDF file to Excel with formatting, we will use Lido, a new spreadsheet tool designed to simplify and automate repetitive tasks for you. You can create an account here for free: https://www.lido.app/go/signup.

For this solution, we will use Lido's PDF Importer Tool. Follow this step-by-step guide: 

Step 1: Start a New Spreadsheet

Sign in to your Lido account, navigate to the Files page, and select "New file" to create a new spreadsheet.

copy table from pdf to excel with formatting

Step 2: Use Lido's PDF Importer Tool

In your new spreadsheet, go to the "File" menu at the top. From the dropdown list, select "Import from PDF."

Step 3: Upload the PDF File

In the file importer tool, click on "Click to Upload" and upload the PDF file from your computer, or simply drag and drop it into the designated area.

how to copy table from pdf to excel and keep formatting

Step 4: Select and Extract the Table

After uploading your PDF, an interface will appear where you can choose the specific table you want to copy.

Resize the selection box by dragging its blue corners to include the entire table, then click "Extract data."

how to copy and paste a table from pdf to excel without losing formatting

Step 5: Review and Insert the Extracted Data

Check the table in the new dialog box to ensure it has been completely and accurately extracted.

If the selected area contains text, each line will be placed into individual cells, while tables will be formatted accordingly. If both text and tables are present, only the tabular data will be transferred, and the plain text will be excluded.

Once you're satisfied with the results, click "Insert at active cell" to add the table to your Lido spreadsheet.

Step 6: Export Your Worksheet to Excel

Once you've confirmed that all necessary tables have been extracted and are correctly formatted in your spreadsheet, click on the three-dot menu next to the worksheet's name. Choose "Export values to Excel."

You can also simply copy the table from Lido and paste it into your Excel sheet. To do this, highlight the cells containing the table, right-click, and select "Copy." You can also use the keyboard shortcut: Ctrl + C.

Go to your Excel sheet, right-click, and paste the table (or use the keyboard shortcut: Ctrl + V). This way, you won't lose its formatting.

We hope you now know how to copy and paste a table from a PDF to Excel without losing its formatting.

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