Saving Documents in
Rich-Text Format (RTF)

The first step to creating and saving a document in RTF is to open a word processor, a program specifically designed for the user to type and save files. For many students, it is not immediately evident why it is so important to save in the RTF format. What the Rich-Text Format provides is a 99.99% chance that the instructor will be able to read the submitted assignment. Think of the RTF format as a universal word processor language. Most any platform of computer (Mac and PC) and word processor (Corel WordPerfect or Microsoft Word) have the ability to read this format. Saving an assignment is Rich Text Format ensures that your instructor will be able to read the submitted file.

The WebTechs have compiled a list of Word processing software known to work well with WebCT and other word processing applications.

NOTE: All files, unless instructed by your teacher, should be saved in the Rich Text Format before being submitted to the Assignments Dropbox.

*Using Microsoft Word 2002/XP?

Some students may find that the instructor can not open a document even if it is saved in Rich Text when using Microsoft Word XP. This is a known problem, and fortunately, there is a workaround. Instructors who do not have access to Microsoft Word use Corel Word Perfect 8.0, which is unable to open documents saved as rich text with Word 2002/XP. (Note: other versions of Microsoft Word do work correctly. This is only with Word 2002/XP, not to be confused with Windows XP.) To solve this problem, students can use Word Pad, which is standard on Windows operating systems. Follow these few steps to save a document in Word Pad correctly.

NOTE: The following example is given using a Windows operating system. Even if a Windows operating system is not being used, read through the example anyway, as it will give hints as to how to save files in RTF within any computer system.

Saving in Rich-Text Format

1. Open the word processing program.
2. Type the assignment.
3. When the file is ready to be saved, select "File" from the menu bar at the top of the word processor screen; now select "Save As"
4. A screen that looks similar to Figure 1.1 will display. In the File name text box type the desired name of the assignment.


5. When naming and saving a file, use all LOWERCASE letters without any symbol characters (i.e. - @#$ or %).
   - For example, project1.rtf is an acceptable filename, while Project #1.RTF is not.
   - An error message will display when attempting to upload a file that doesn't conform to these conventions.
6. Before selecting the Save button, be sure that the file is being saved into the correct folder or directory. The C:/My Documents directory is most commonly used with a Windows 98, 2000, XP or NT 4.0 operating system.
7. Click the Save button.
8. Enter the Assignments Dropbox to turn in your assignment.

NOTE: It is a good idea to save a file that is being created every 10 minutes. To re-save an already saved file, simply select the Save icon from the menu bar of the word processing program or select "File - Save" in the program.