A method for editing and updating content of a collaborative document within a preview user interface is provided. The method includes a content management platform receives a request for a file stored which is stored in a third-party application format. The system causes a rendered graphical image of the file to be presented within a preview user interface. The rendered graphical image of the file represents a view of the file as if opened within a third-party application. The system receives from the preview user interface, content associated with a portion of the file. The system generates a new version of the file that includes the content associated with the portion of the file.