RTF, or Rich Text Format, is a file format used for documents that allows for text formatting, such as bold, italics, and different fonts. It was developed by Microsoft in the 1980s to enable easy sharing of formatted text between different word processing applications. RTF files can be opened and edited by many software programs, making them versatile for users. One of the key features of RTF is its ability to maintain formatting across various platforms, including Windows and MacOS. Unlike plain text files, RTF supports images, tables, and other elements, making it suitable for more complex documents. This format is often used for exchanging documents that require consistent appearance.