Converting attachments to read format

I have yet been able to figure out to convert a text email attachment to readable format. I try saving it it desktop, then using Word but I just get a machine language response. I try importing it to WP but when converting it, I get the message Unsupported File Format.
I know I must be missing something ridiculously simple so please bear with me!
If anyone can let me in on what is probably staring me in the face, I’d appreciate it.
Thanks, Nick.