File extension .XY
Full Name | Developer | Category |
---|---|---|
XyWrite Document | XyQuest | Text Files |
The XY file extension is a proprietary file format used by XYWrite, an early word processor program developed in the early 80s. It was one of the first word processors to feature multiple font and text size options, a spell checker, a Word Count function, what-you-see-is-what-you-get (WYSIWYG) text formatting and even sophisticated typesetting capabilities. Although no longer well known, XYWrite was a popular word processor in the 1980s.
Technical Format Details
The XY file format is a simple text file that does not contain any word processing information such as headers or formatting control codes. XY files also can include graphics as bitmaps and introduce data tables with non-textual data, though this always underwent feature additions and changes depending on the version of XYWrite. As it was an early word processor, its internal complexity was quite small compared to those developed later on. XY files are compatible with other software programs such as WordPerfect, MS WordPad, and Notepad. The XY file extension is also associated with document files created using WordStar, WordPerfect, MS WordPad, and Notepad.
Similar File Extensions
Other similar file extensions include DOCX, DOC, DOTX, DOT, PAGES, RTF, WPD, ODT, OTT and TXT.
Programs for WINDOWS system
After installing the required software, the operating system will usually automatically associate an unknown file type (in this case .XY) with the new application. If this does not happen, we can help the system a bit by selecting the software for it, which it should always use to open files with the .XY extension.
When choosing the software we can select the system to use this software every time.
Remember!
Using it for the first time it is good to check whether the .XY file opened in the application can be read by us and opens in a way that allows us to use it. If everything is in order, select this option the next time you open a file with the .XY extension. However, if the file has not opened correctly, we have to look for a different software, with which we can open files with the .XY extension. Select a different software from our list and install it on your computer. After the software is installed, repeat inspection openings of a .XY file. Sometimes you have to repeat the operation several times.
Other instructions
If none of the programs listed by us to work with the .XY file has not meet your expectations, you can try searching other websites. But remember to avoid downloading programs "that can open any file". These applications not only have very limited functionality, but may also expose you to expense tens of dollars when purchasing a license.
In the vast majority of cases you will find the program dedicated to support the .XY file, or any other file format. In addition, there is a chance that it will be a free program, and its functionality (concerning the .XY file) will be extended to the maximum.
It is also good to check
- if the .XY file has no errors
- or if it has been copied (or downloaded by the browser) thoroughly
Author’s guidelines

Mr B. Adam
Author of the guidelines / Founder of FileExtension.info
New technologies enthusiast, helping to solve problems with the files.
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