Saving a document as a template in Word 2019 is a handy trick that can save you time and ensure consistency across similar documents. By doing this, you can create a master copy of a document layout that you can use over and over again without having to start from scratch each time. It’s a simple process that only takes a few steps.
Step by Step Tutorial: Save a Document as a Template in Word 2019
Before we dive into the steps, it’s important to understand why you would want to save a document as a template. Templates are useful when you have a standard document structure that you use regularly – such as a letterhead, an invoice, or a report format. It takes the hassle out of formatting and ensures that your documents are uniformly styled every time you create a new one.
Step 1: Open the Document
Open the Word document that you want to save as a template. This should be a document that you’ve already formatted to your liking and is ready to be reused in the future.
Creating a template starts with a well-formatted document. Make sure all your styles, headings, fonts, and margins are exactly how you want them in your template.
Step 2: Click on ‘File’
Once your document is ready, click on ‘File’ in the upper left corner of the Word window.
This step takes you to the backstage view where you will find options to save, print, share, and export your document.
Step 3: Select ‘Save As’
In the File menu, select ‘Save As’. This will prompt you to choose where you want to save your document and what format you want to save it in.
Remember, choosing ‘Save As’ instead of ‘Save’ allows you to create a new copy of your document without altering the original file.
Step 4: Choose the Location
Pick a location on your computer where you want to save the template. You might want to create a specific folder for your templates for easy access in the future.
Keep your templates organized in a folder so you can find them quickly when you need them.
Step 5: Select ‘Word Template’ from the Save as Type Dropdown Menu
In the ‘Save as type’ dropdown menu, select ‘Word Template (*.dotx)’. This will change the format of your document to a template format.
Selecting ‘Word Template’ ensures that every time you open this file, it will open as a new document rather than altering the original template.
Step 6: Name Your Template and Click ‘Save’
Give your template a name that you will easily recognize, and click ‘Save’. Your document is now saved as a template!
Choose a name that describes the purpose of your template, like ‘Monthly Report Template’ or ‘Business Letterhead’.
After completing these steps, you now have a document saved as a template in Word 2019. The next time you need to create a similar document, you can simply open your template and start with your pre-formatted layout, saving you the time and trouble of formatting from scratch.
Tips: Saving Document as Template in Word 2019
- Always double-check your formatting before saving your document as a template. Make sure it’s exactly how you want it.
- Consider including placeholders for content that will change in each document, such as date, address, or subject line.
- Save your templates in a location that is backed up regularly to prevent loss of data.
- Customize your Quick Access Toolbar in Word to include the ‘Save as Template’ command for faster access.
- Remember that you can create templates for not only text documents but also for envelopes, labels, and other specialized formats.
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the difference between ‘.dotx’ and ‘.dotm’?
‘.dotx’ is a Word template file that does not include macros, while ‘.dotm’ is a Word template file that does include macros.
Can I edit a template after I’ve saved it?
Yes, you can edit a template by opening it as a Word document, making the necessary changes, and then saving it as a template again.
How do I open a template I’ve saved?
To open a saved template, go to the ‘File’ menu, select ‘New’, and then click on ‘Personal’ to find your saved templates.
Will saving a document as a template overwrite the original document?
No, saving a document as a template creates a new file in a different format and leaves the original document unchanged.
Can I share my template with others?
Yes, you can share your template by sending the .dotx file to others, and they can use it on their own Word 2019 software.
Summary
- Open the document you want to save as a template.
- Click on ‘File’.
- Select ‘Save As’.
- Choose the location for your template.
- Select ‘Word Template’ from the Save as Type dropdown menu.
- Name your template and click ‘Save’.
Conclusion
Creating a template in Word 2019 can streamline your workflow and ensure consistency across your documents. It’s a simple yet powerful tool that can save you time and effort in the long run. Whether you’re a business professional, a student, or someone who values efficiency, knowing how to save a document as a template in Word 2019 is an essential skill. Give it a try and see how it can benefit your document creation process. And remember, once you’ve created your template, you can use it again and again, tweaking it as needed for various purposes. Happy templating!
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.