A Word template lets you reuse page layout, styles, headers, boilerplate text, and other document settings without overwriting the original design. Save the finished design as a Word template file rather than as an ordinary document.
How to Make Your Own Template in Word
Step 1: Create the base document
Open Word and build the document you want to reuse. Configure margins, styles, fonts, headers, footers, tables, logos, and any standard text.
Step 2: Remove one-time content
Delete names, dates, account information, comments, tracked changes, and other content that should not appear in every new document.
Step 3: Choose Save As
Select File > Save As and choose the location for the template.
Step 4: Select a Word Template format
Choose Word Template (*.dotx) for a normal template. If the template legitimately contains macros, use the appropriate macro-enabled template format and follow your organization’s macro-security requirements.
Step 5: Name and save the template
Give the template a descriptive name and save it.
Step 6: Create a new document from the template
Use Word’s new-document/template interface to select the template. Word creates a new document based on it so the template itself remains available for future use.
Use Styles Instead of Manual Formatting
Define heading, body, list, and other styles in the template whenever possible. Styles make documents more consistent and let you update formatting without editing every paragraph individually.
Protect Private Information
Before distributing a template, inspect it for comments, hidden text, document properties, embedded files, and other information that should not be reused. A template can spread an accidental disclosure to every document created from it.
Additional Information
Organizations that need centrally managed templates may use SharePoint, Office template locations, or other managed deployment methods. A local DOTX file is appropriate for simpler personal workflows.
Matt Jacobs has been working as an IT consultant for small businesses since receiving his Master’s degree in 2003. While he still does some consulting work, his primary focus now is on creating technology support content for SupportYourTech.com.
His work can be found on many websites and focuses on topics such as Microsoft Office, Apple devices, Android devices, Photoshop, and more.