How to Create an Email Template in Gmail

Step 1: Enable Gmail Templates

Gmail templates are disabled by default. You need to turn them on first:

1. Open Gmail in your browser.
2. Click the gear icon (top right) → See all settings.
3. Go to the Advanced tab.
4. Find Templates and select Enable.
5. Click Save Changes at the bottom.

Step 2: Create a Template

1. Click Compose to open a new email.
2. Write your template email — subject line and body. Include placeholders like [NAME] and [DATE] for parts you will customize.
3. Click the three dots (⋮) at the bottom of the compose window.
4. Select Templates → Save draft as template → Save as new template.
5. Name your template and click Save.

Step 3: Use a Template

1. Click Compose (or reply to an email).
2. Click the three dots (⋮) at the bottom.
3. Select Templates → choose your saved template.
4. The template content will be inserted into the compose window.
5. Customize placeholders and send.

Managing Templates

Updating a Template

1. Insert the template into a compose window.
2. Make your changes.
3. Click the three dots → Templates → Save draft as template → select the existing template name.
4. Confirm overwrite.

Deleting a Template

1. Open a compose window.
2. Click three dots → Templates → Delete template → select the template to remove.

Gmail Template Limitations

• 50 template limit: Gmail allows a maximum of 50 saved templates per account.
• No attachments: Templates save subject and body only. Attachments must be added manually each time.
• No variables: Gmail does not support auto-fill variables. You must manually replace placeholders.
• Personal only: Templates are tied to your individual Gmail account. You cannot share them with teammates directly.
• Not available on mobile: Gmail templates are desktop web only. The mobile app does not support them.

Tips for Effective Gmail Templates

• Use clear names: "Sales — Initial Outreach" is better than "Template 1."
• Include clear placeholders: Use [BRACKETS] for parts that need customizing so you do not accidentally send generic text.
• Keep formatting simple: Complex formatting can break. Stick to basic bold, links, and lists.
• Review before sending: Always re-read the email after inserting a template to catch placeholder text you forgot to replace.

For Outlook templates, see Outlook email templates and Outlook 365 templates. For ready-to-use templates, explore professional email templates, sales templates, and welcome email templates.

Related: Gmail signatures, writing emails faster, and AI email tools.

Explore all guides in this series: email templates guide, Outlook templates, sales templates, confirmation emails, invoice emails, onboarding emails, welcome emails, sales follow-up, Outlook 365 templates, abandoned cart emails, PR emails.