How to Create a Template in Word

If you use word processing programs like Microsoft Word often, you may find yourself using the same layout and design elements. Save time with documents by creating a master document called a template. Templates allow you to pull up a document with things you use often and only adding the new content. Follow these steps to get started on your Word templates.

Difficulty:

Moderate

Instructions

1. Find Word templates in a different file than your documents. Normally, they are found in Microsoft Office/Templates. They will also have a .dot extension instead of the normal document extension of doc.

2. Create a template from scratch or from an open document. When it is time to save, click "Save as type" and choose document template.

3. Consider inserting field codes from "Insert" on the menu bar to your template. The most commonly used is the date field, which changes the date to the current date whenever you open the template.

4. Open an already saved template by opening a new document in Microsoft Word. The task pane will have a section called "New from template." This folder holds any Office templates plus others created by you. This is how you create a new document from a template. Give it a new name and save as a Word document.

5. Make changes to your template when needed. You may want to change the font size or style. Or add a header or footer. When it comes time to save the changes to your template, click "Save as type" and choose document template. The template window will open. Click on the name you want the template saved as. Click ok.

6. Organize your templates by creating subfolders in the Templates folder. You may want to call one "Business Letters."

Tips & Warnings

• Download additional templates from the Microsoft Office Online website or other desktop publishing websites.

• Looks for additional assistance through Microsoft Help. Click on "Help" on the menu bar, and then search for "templates."