Resources & Tools > Templates
and Tools > The
Power of Word Templates & Styles
Introduction
One of the more powerful features of Microsoft WORD rests
in the capability for the user to develop specialized document templates.
I have found it beneficial, as you will see in the Template
Library area of this site, to develop a “library” of specialized
templates I rely on to speed document production for my clients.
The templates allow me to get through that difficult document design
phase. Much time and effort has been devoted to defining effective
documentation formats and I have integrated those features in the
templates. I overcome any “design” debate by presenting
a proposed format (sometimes with outline) for approval. This
way unique requirements are identified and implemented immediately,
in
this early stage.
What Is A Document Template
A template is a “master copy” for all documents
of a particular type, and essentially a blueprint that includes all
the
formatting and layout information for various parts of the
document. Microsoft Word provides templates for common types of documents,
and allows the user to develop custom templates for specific
or unique
needs.
Templates allow automated reformatting of document elements.
The
use of a custom, or “tailored,” template allows instant,
global formatting of documents, eliminating the need for tedious,
repetitive hard code keystrokes. Instead of going through each
of the various formatting steps to establish a selected format,
the user needs to make only a few keystrokes to format each part
of a document.
A significant benefit of the template approach – particularly
if the document is to go through a lengthy review process – is
the format of a component of the document can be changed by simply making
the required changes in the “style” for that component.
After the change to the style is made, it is globally applied to
every part of the document in that style; tedious manual reformatting
is eliminated. This can be of tremendous benefit when multiple clients
need a document, but each wants it in their own format.
Using Template “Styles”
A style is a group of format features set for a given component
or paragraph in a document. The styles are embedded in the templates
and may be selected either from the Format Bar Style Box, or by using
Shortcut Keys. The Shortcut Keys speed style selection.
See the Template Library portion of this site for more details
about templates and my Template Library CD.
