> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://docs.papers.ai/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://docs.papers.ai/collaborating/co-writing-across-formats.md).

# Co-writing across formats

A shared project can hold multiple file formats at once, so two collaborators can each write in the format they prefer without stepping on each other.

## Set it up

{% stepper %}
{% step %}

### Share once

Share the project once, giving both collaborators the **Editor** role. See [Share a project and manage access](/collaborating/share-a-project-and-manage-access.md).
{% endstep %}

{% step %}

### Each opens their own file

Each collaborator opens or creates their own file: a `.docx` for the Word writer, a `.md` or `.tex` for the source writer.
{% endstep %}

{% step %}

### Work at the same time

Both can work in the same project at the same time. If you both open the same file, you'll see each other's cursors; otherwise your edits stay independent until you look at the same content.
{% endstep %}
{% endstepper %}

## Discuss across files

The **Comments** panel shows every thread in the project, not just the file you have open, so either person can reply without switching files. See [Comments](/collaborating/comments.md).

## Bring it together at the end

Each format compiles or exports on its own. Papers AI won't merge a `.docx` and a `.tex` into one output automatically. If you need everything in one deliverable, decide which format wins and copy the other content into it before your final compile or export.

{% hint style="success" %}
Ask the AI to reformat or merge a section from one format into another, for example turning Markdown notes into a polished paragraph you paste into the Word draft. See [Using AI](/using-ai/using-ai.md).
{% endhint %}

## Variations

* **Three or more writers, three or more formats.** The same pattern extends. Everyone opens their own file.
* **One person reviews only.** Give them the **Viewer** role. They can read everything and comment, but not edit.
* **Shared bibliography.** A `.docx` and a `.tex` file in the same project can cite from the same `.bib` file.

## Troubleshooting

<details>

<summary>You can't see what your collaborator is working on</summary>

You'll only see their cursor if you're both viewing the same file at the same time. Otherwise, just check the file tree for their changes.

</details>

<details>

<summary>Your collaborator can't edit</summary>

Check their role. **Viewer** is read-only.

</details>

## Next steps

* [Real-time collaboration](/collaborating/real-time-collaboration.md)
* [Working with Word documents](/writing-and-editing/working-with-word-documents.md)