What Is XFDF?
XFDF (XML Forms Data Format) is an XML format for storing PDF form data and annotations. Acrobat and other PDF applications can save highlights, comments, and metadata separately from the original PDF.
Why Convert XFDF
XFDF is useful for interchange and re-import, but it is not immediately convenient as notes, a table, or automation data. Converting it to Markdown, CSV, or plain text makes annotations easier to use in Obsidian, Notion, spreadsheets, and other tools.
How It Works
- Open the XFDF file.
- Wait for local parsing in the browser.
- Review annotations and use Pro filters if needed.
- Choose an export format.
- Download or copy the result.
Privacy
The file is processed locally in the browser and is not sent to a server.
Formats
Markdown, CSV, and plain text are free. Obsidian, Notion, JSON, Excel, ZIP, AI Context Markdown, and RAG JSON are available in Pro.
From Adobe Acrobat to a Spreadsheet
- In Acrobat, export the comments list as an XFDF file.
- Open the .xfdf file here; parsing stays in your browser.
- Review highlights, comments, and replies, then filter if needed.
- Export free CSV, or choose Pro Excel (.xlsx) with author and date columns.
CSV creates one row per annotation with page, type, color, content, comment, and tags. Excel also includes author and date when the source XFDF stores them, so the workbook can serve as a review log.