Template Issues

How to Add and Use Custom Word Templates in Windows 11

Adam Davis Oct 9, 2026 869 views

Question details

The user needs to know how to install and access custom document templates because they do not show up by default on the document creation screen.

How to Add and Use Custom Word Templates in Windows 11

Product: Microsoft Word
Device & OS: Windows 11
Scenario: Creating a new document based on a customized personal or company template.
Observed behavior: Custom Word templates fail to appear on the standard 'New' document screen unless stored in a specific hidden folder or opened via the classic New dialog.

Before you start

Ensure your custom template is actually saved as a Word Template file (.dotx or .dotm) rather than a standard document (.docx), and that you have hidden folders set to visible in Windows 11 File Explorer.

Solution 1Recommended

Store Templates in the AppData Folder and Use the Classic New Dialog

The most reliable way to access custom templates is by placing them in the default Microsoft Templates folder and adding a shortcut to the Quick Access Toolbar.

By default, Windows stores user templates in a hidden AppData directory. Moving your files here and restoring the classic New Document dialog ensures your personal templates load correctly every time.

Open the default templates folder

Press the Windows key + R to open the Run dialog box. Type '%AppData%\Microsoft\Templates' and press Enter. This will directly open the hidden templates directory in File Explorer.

Transfer your templates

Copy your custom Word template files (.dotx or .dotm) from their current location and paste them into this Templates folder.

Modify Word options

Open Microsoft Word. Click on 'File' in the top-left corner, then select 'Options' at the bottom of the menu.

Update the Quick Access Toolbar

In the Word Options window, click 'Quick Access Toolbar' on the left panel. Under 'Choose commands from', select 'All Commands' from the drop-down menu.

Add the New Document command

Scroll down the list to find 'New Document or Template'. Select it, click the 'Add' button in the middle, and then click 'OK'.

Access your templates

Click the new icon that now appears on your Quick Access Toolbar at the top of the Word window. This opens the classic New dialog where your custom templates are visibly listed.

Store Templates in the AppData Folder and Use the Classic New Dialog

Verify File Extension: If you follow these steps but still only see the standard 'Normal' template, verify that your custom file has a .dotx extension. If it is saved as a .docx file, Word will not recognize it as a template.

Solution 2

Set a Custom Personal Templates Location in Settings

If you prefer storing templates in an easily accessible folder (like your Documents), you can configure Word to recognize that specific folder path.

Manage Templates Easily with WPS Office

Easily Open and Use Custom Templates in WPS Writer

Avoid the hassle of digging through hidden AppData folders or modifying system toolbars. WPS Writer allows you to directly open template files or use its intuitive built-in gallery for a smoother document creation experience.

1. Launch WPS Writer: Open WPS Office on your Windows 11 PC and select 'Writer' to launch the word processor.
2. Open your template file: Click on 'Menu' in the top-left corner and select 'Open'. Browse to the folder on your computer where your custom .dotx or .wpt template is saved.
3. Create a new document: Double-click the template file. WPS Writer will automatically open it as a starting point for your new document, preserving the original formatting.
4. Save as a standard document: Once you finish editing, click 'Save As' and select the standard .docx format. This ensures your newly created document is saved independently while your original custom template remains untouched.

Seamlessly compatible with Microsoft Word template formats (.dotx, .dotm, and .doc).No hidden folders to configure; simply browse and open templates from any local directory.Access a massive built-in library of high-quality, free online templates for resumes, reports, and letters.A lightweight, fast, and completely free Microsoft Office alternative.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Why aren't my custom templates showing up under File > New?

Word often hides custom templates if the 'Default personal templates location' is not configured in your settings, or if the templates are not saved in the specific hidden %AppData%\Microsoft\Templates directory.

Can I simply double-click a template file to use it in Windows 11?

Yes. If you locate your .dotx file in Windows 11 File Explorer and double-click it, Word will automatically create a new, blank Document based on that layout rather than opening the actual template file for editing.

What is the difference between a .docx and a .dotx file?

A .docx file is a standard Word document used for everyday editing and saving. A .dotx file is a Word Template; opening it spawns a fresh document based on its layout, preventing you from accidentally overwriting your master template design.

Document & File Issues