Microsoft Project Templates: Step By Step

Hey there! I recently saw a couple questions in the forums and on my Youtube Channel about creating Microsoft Project Templates. The consistent questions are around creating and using the Microsoft Project Template to save the project managers time.

Today, I’m going to walk you through this crucial process that is not very obvious. Here’s what usually happens, someone saves a project as a template, but they they’re not able to find it later when they needed to create a new project? Don’t worry, I’ve got you covered with a simple step by step approach to ensure your templates are easily accessible. So, let’s jump right in!

If you would rather watch a YouTube video on this subject, click here or click the thumbnail below.

Creating and Saving Your Microsoft Project Template

The first steps in this process actually involve creating a project that you want to use as a template, and then saving that project as a template file.

Prepare Your Project To Be Saved as a Template File

Create a new project or open an existing project that you want to save as a template.
Confirm that your project is complete and tailored to your template requirements.

Saving the Microsoft Project Templates

Click the “File” tab and then click the “Save As” tab on the left side of the Backstage.
On the Save As page, click the “Browse” button and then browse to the location where you want to save your templates. I prefer to keep mine in a specific folder, which is the “Custom Office Templates” subfolder of the “Documents” main folder.
In the Save As dialog, enter a name for your template in the “File name” field.
In the Save As dialog, click the “Save as type” pick list button and select the “Project Template (*.mpt)” item on the list.
Click the “Save” button.
In the “Save As Template” dialog, select all the checkboxes.
Click the “Save” button to finalize the process.
Close the newly saved template file.

Set the Default Personal Templates Location

Click the “File” tab and then click the “Options” tab in the Backstage.
In the Project Options dialog, click the “Save” tab.
On the Save page of the dialog, scroll down to the “Save templates” section.
Notice the option named “Default personal templates location,” which is blank by default.
Click on the “Browse…” button to the right of this option.
In the Modify Location dialog, navigate to the folder where you saved your templates. In my case, it’s the “Custom Office Templates” subfolder of the “Documents” main folder.
Select the location and click the “OK” button.
Click “OK” button to close the Project Options dialog.

Using Your Microsoft Project Template to Create a New Project

Now that you’ve saved your template and set the default location, creating a new project from the template is a breeze!

Click the “File” tab and then click the “New” tab in the Backstage.
Near the top of the New page, click the “Personal” tab. It’s to the right of the “Office” tab.
Select the desired template on the New page.
In the preview dialog, click the “Create” button.
Microsoft Project will generate a new project based on your template, saving you time and effort.

That’s it! You now have the know-how to save and use templates in Microsoft Project seamlessly.

If you have questions, please add them in the “Leave a Reply” section below. Or if you watched the video, add your questions or comments there. Please subscribe to my YouTube channel and leave “Likes” if you like the videos.

If you would like to have a formal class on using Microsoft Project, here is a link for my classes.

Hello there, esteemed Microsoft Project enthusiasts! It is with great pleasure that I introduce myself as Dale Howard Microsoft Project MVP, a seasoned veteran in the world of Microsoft Project. With a remarkable track record of being awarded the prestigious Microsoft Project MVP (Most Valuable Professional) title for an incredible 20 years in a row, I am humbled to share that I currently hold the distinguished position of being one of only 11 Project MVPs across the entire globe. To say that this achievement is exciting would be an understatement. It is a testament to my unwavering dedication, passion, and expertise in the Microsoft Project domain.

Why Should You Learn from Dale Howard Microsoft Project MVP?

Throughout my illustrious career, I have relentlessly pursued excellence, striving to be at the forefront of technological advancements and best practices in project management. Being a Microsoft Project MVP has endowed me with a wealth of knowledge and experience that I eagerly share with other users of this remarkable software. It has been my privilege to assist countless individuals and organizations in harnessing the full potential of Microsoft Project to effectively plan, execute, and monitor their projects. Through my extensive involvement in the Microsoft Project community, I have built a strong network of like-minded professionals, and together, we continuously strive to innovate and push the boundaries of project management excellence. As an MVP, I not only possess an in-depth understanding of Microsoft Project but also have access to exclusive resources, early product previews, and direct communication channels with the Microsoft Project development team. This unique advantage allows me to stay ahead of the curve, ensuring that I can provide the most up-to-date and relevant guidance to fellow Microsoft Project lovers.

Whether you are a seasoned project manager seeking to enhance your skills or a novice navigating the intricacies of project planning, I am here to assist you every step of the way. Through my articles, webinars, and training sessions, I aim to empower individuals and organizations to unlock the true potential of Microsoft Project, enabling them to achieve their project goals efficiently and effectively. Join me on this exhilarating journey as we delve into the realm of Microsoft Project, exploring its vast capabilities, uncovering hidden gems, and conquering the challenges that lie ahead. Together, we can transform the way projects are managed, revolutionizing the world of project management, one keystroke at a time. So, buckle up and prepare yourself for an unforgettable adventure in the fascinating universe of Microsoft Project.

Ask Questions on the Forums or Contact Me Directly

If you post a question about any of Microsoft’s PPM tools on the public message boards, look to see who the moderator or person that has answered the questions and you see, it’s frequently me answering your questions. Some people like to golf, I love Microsoft Project helping the community get to understand Microsoft Project much better.

Books I’ve Written on Amazon

I’ve been teaching students at all levels for over 20 years and have taught thousands of users around the world. I’ve written and co-authored 23 books on Microsoft Project, Project Online, and Project Server so if you’re like me and like to read over watching a video, you can Check Out My Books on Amazon.

Check Out My YouTube Channel

For the people that like to watch videos, check out my YouTube channel. If you post a question in the comments, I’ll be happy to answer questions or create a new video to answer your question.

See Other Questions I Answer on the Message Boards

If you’ve got a question about Microsoft Project, Project Online or Project Server, check out some of these community post areas.
Microsoft Tech Community
Reddit Project Online Community
LinkedIn Project and Planner Group

Here’s some other blogs and message boards that I answer questions on:
https://www.mpug.com/author/dale-howard/
https://www.dalehowardmvp.com/microsoft-project-tips-and-tricks/
https://answers.microsoft.com/en-us/msoffice/forum/msoffice_project
https://www.reddit.com/r/MSProject/
https://answers.microsoft.com/en-us/profile/029b4dc7-350c-48f1-8f44-5f01718b3b30