WSD File – What is .wsd file and how to open it?

WordStar Document File (WSD)

WSD files are text-based documents created using the WordStar word processing software. Developed by MicroPro International Corporation in the early 1980s, WordStar was a popular word processor in the pre-Windows era. WSD files store formatted text, including text formatting, page layout, and other document elements. They can contain various text attributes, such as font, size, color, alignment, and indentation. WSD files also support the embedding of images and other multimedia objects.

Usage and Compatibility

WSD files were primarily used for creating and editing documents within the WordStar software. However, as other word processors gained popularity, WSD files became less common. Today, WSD files are rarely used in modern word processing environments. While some text editors and converters can open and view WSD files, compatibility with modern software may be limited. For this reason, it is advisable to convert WSD files to a more current file format, such as DOCX or PDF, to ensure accessibility and compatibility.

Opening WSD Files: Native Software

WSD files can only be opened and edited using the native software that created them, namely, WordStar, a word processing software developed by MicroPro International. WordStar was once a popular word processor in the 1980s but has since been replaced by more modern software like Microsoft Word. If you have access to WordStar, simply locate the WSD file you want to open and double-click it. The file will open in WordStar, where you can view, edit, and save it.

Alternative Methods for Opening WSD Files

In case you do not have access to WordStar, there are a few alternative methods you can try to open WSD files. However, these methods may not be as reliable or may not provide the full functionality that WordStar offers.

• Conversion to DOCX: You can try converting the WSD file to a more modern format like DOCX, which can be opened in Microsoft Word or other compatible word processors. There are online converters available that can perform this conversion. However, the conversion may not be perfect, and some formatting or content may be lost.

• Text Extraction: If you are only interested in extracting the text from the WSD file, you can use a text editor or a dedicated WSD to TXT converter to extract the plain text content. This method will not preserve any formatting or images but can be useful for retrieving the written content.

WordStar Document (WSD)

WordStar Document (WSD) is a proprietary file format used by the WordStar word processing software. Developed by Micropro International in the 1980s, WSD files store text, formatting, and layout information. This file format was popular on personal computers running MS-DOS and CP/M operating systems, especially in the mid-to-late 1980s.

WSD files have a relatively simple structure, making them easy to read and edit using a text editor. They typically contain ASCII text along with embedded control codes that specify formatting and layout attributes. These control codes define elements such as font size, color, indentation, and page breaks. Additionally, WSD files can incorporate binary data, such as images and macros, which can be used to enhance document functionality and aesthetics.

Other Extensions