# Extract text from a scanned PDF

> Extract text from a scanned PDF with free browser OCR. Copy or search the result — no upload, no account.

Canonical: https://mypdf.space/extract-text-from-scanned-pdf
Last updated: 2026-10-26

## Answer

Image-only PDFs have no text to copy until OCR runs. Use the tool below to recognize pages and work with the text output or searchable PDF. Processing never leaves your device.

## Limits

- Tables and multi-column layouts may need cleanup.
- Handwriting extraction is unreliable.
- Proofread before submitting extracted text anywhere.

## FAQ

### How do I copy text from a scanned PDF?

Run OCR here, then select text in the result or use the plain-text download when available.

### Is extraction free and private?

Yes — free, no account, and the scan stays in your browser.

### Can I turn the scan into Word after OCR?

Yes — open PDF to Word after recognition for an editable document.

## Related

- [Extract text from a scanned PDF](https://mypdf.space/tools/ocr-pdf)
- [OCR PDF](https://mypdf.space/ocr-pdf)
- [PDF to Word](https://mypdf.space/pdf-to-word)
- [Make scanned PDF searchable](https://mypdf.space/make-scanned-pdf-searchable)