To save a Word document as a template, go to File > Save As, choose a location, and set Save as type to Word Template (*.dotx), or Word Macro-Enabled Template (*.dotm) if it contains macros. Word suggests the Custom Office Templates folder in Documents, and templates saved there appear under File > New > Personal.
Quick Answer
File > Save As > Browse > Save as type: Word Template (*.dotx) > Save. Then open File > New > Personal to start new documents from it.
Steps to Create a Template
- Build the document: styles, headers and footers, logo, margins and any placeholder text.
- Remove anything specific to one use, such as names or dates.
- Choose File > Save As > Browse (or press F12).
- In Save as type, pick Word Template (*.dotx). Word switches to the Custom Office Templates folder.
- Name the template and click Save.
Use the Template
- Go to File > New.
- Click Personal (or Custom in some versions).
- Pick your template. Word opens a new, untitled document based on it, so the template itself stays unchanged.
Template File Types
| Type | Extension | Use when |
|---|---|---|
| Word Template | .dotx | Most templates |
| Word Macro-Enabled Template | .dotm | The template includes macros |
| Word 97-2003 Template | .dot | Only for very old versions of Word |
Troubleshooting
- Personal tab is missing: Set a folder in File > Options > Save > Default personal templates location, and save templates there.
- Editing the template itself: Right-click it in File Explorer and choose Open, rather than double-clicking, which creates a new document.
- Want a different default font or layout instead? See changing the default font or making landscape the default.
- Adding a branded header: See custom headers and footers.
Related: Apply a template to an existing Word document.
Related: How to edit a resume in Word.
Related: Create a user manual in Word.
Related: Make a certificate in Word.
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the difference between .docx and .dotx?
Opening a .docx edits that file. Opening a .dotx from File > New creates a new document, leaving the template untouched.
Can I share a template?
Yes. Send the .dotx file; the recipient saves it in their own templates folder.
Does this work on a Mac?
Yes. Choose File > Save as Template, and find it later under File > New from Template.
Summary
- Set up the document the way you want every copy to start.
- Save As with the type Word Template (*.dotx).
- Keep it in the Custom Office Templates folder.
- Start new files from File > New > Personal.
Kermit Matthews is a freelance writer based in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania with more than a decade of experience writing technology guides. He has a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Computer Science and has spent much of his professional career in IT management.
He specializes in writing content about iPhones, Android devices, Microsoft Office, and many other popular applications and devices.