What is a Template?

 

The term template, when used in the context of word processing software, refers to a sample "fill-in-the-blank" document that can be completed either by hand or through an automated iterative process, such as with a software assistant. Once the template is completed, the user can edit, save and manage the result as an ordinary word processing document. Word processing templates enable the ability to bypass the initial setup and configuration time necessary to create standardized documents such as a resume. They also enable the automatic configuration of the User Interface of the word processing software, with features such as autocompletion, toolbars, thesaurus, and spelling options. Word processing templates are ordinarily included as a regular feature of most word processing software. In addition, users of such software often have the option to create and save their own templates, or to acquire them from the original vendor of the software, or from third parties.