How to Create Templates on Google Drive

Carolyn Jul 11, 2026

Google Drive, a cloud-based storage service by Google, offers a range of features to enhance productivity. One of these is the ability to create templates, which can save you time and effort by providing pre-formatted files for common tasks. Whether you're creating documents, spreadsheets, or presentations, Google Drive templates can streamline your workflow. Let's delve into how to create templates on Google Drive.

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The Most Popular Ways to Share Google Drive Files and Templates with Students

Before we dive into the process, ensure you have a Google account and are logged into Google Drive. Having a clear understanding of the type of template you want to create will also help. Now, let's get started.

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Creating a New Template

Google Drive allows you to create new templates directly from the platform. Here's how:

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Mastering Google Dashboard: Easy Tips for Organizing Your Google Hub & Sheets

1. Open Google Drive and click on the 'New' button at the top left corner of the screen.

Creating a Document Template

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Google Docs & Google Sheets: How to Share Templates of Course Materials

2. In the dropdown menu, select 'Google Docs' and then choose the type of document you want to create (e.g., Blank Document, Letter, Report, etc.).

3. A new document will open. Format it as desired, including adding text, images, and other elements. Remember, this will be the base for all future documents created from this template.

Creating a Spreadsheet or Presentation Template

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2. In the 'New' dropdown menu, select 'Google Sheets' or 'Google Slides' depending on your preference.

3. Similar to documents, format your new spreadsheet or presentation as desired. This will serve as the base for all future spreadsheets or presentations created from this template.

Saving Your Creation as a Template

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five ways to make google drive pretty with sunflower and text that reads 5 ways to make google drive pretty

Once you've formatted your document, spreadsheet, or presentation to your liking, it's time to save it as a template.

1. Click on 'File' in the menu bar, then select 'Template' and finally 'Save as template'.

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Naming Your Template

2. In the 'Template name' field, enter a descriptive name for your template. This will help you identify it later.

3. Choose whether you want to make your template public or private. Public templates can be accessed by anyone with the link, while private templates can only be accessed by you.

Editing or Deleting Your Template

4. Once saved, your template will appear in the 'Template gallery' in Google Drive. To edit or delete a template, right-click on it and select the appropriate option from the context menu.

5. Remember, changes made to a template will affect all documents, spreadsheets, or presentations created from it. So, be careful when editing templates.

Creating templates on Google Drive can greatly enhance your productivity. Whether you're a student, a professional, or a small business owner, templates can save you time and ensure consistency in your work. So, go ahead and start creating your own templates today!