How to Set Up Notion Templates
Create and use Notion templates for repeatable workflows. Database templates, page templates, and buttons for one-click creation.
Step-by-step
How to Set Up Notion Templates
Create a database template
Open any database, click the dropdown arrow next to 'New', and select '+ New template'. This creates a template entry — add pre-filled properties, content blocks, and sub-pages. Every new entry using this template starts with this content.
Design the template content
Add headings, toggle blocks, checklists, callouts, and placeholder text. For a meeting notes template: Agenda, Discussion Notes, Decisions Made, and Action Items sections. For a project brief: Problem Statement, Goals, Scope, Timeline, and Risks.
Set default property values
In the template, set default values for properties. For example, a 'Bug Report' template might default Status to 'Triage' and Priority to 'Medium'. This saves time and ensures consistency.
Add template buttons to pages
Type /button on any page to create a Template Button. Configure it to create a new page with a specific template, in a specific database, with pre-set properties. Team members click one button to generate a fully structured page.
Use Notion's template gallery
Browse notion.so/templates for pre-built templates. Duplicate any template into your workspace with one click. Customize it to fit your needs — templates are starting points, not rigid structures.
Tips
Pro tips
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Set a default template on databases so new entries always start structured (database settings > Default template)
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Create templates for your most frequent actions: weekly reviews, meeting notes, project kickoffs, and bug reports
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Use the Repeat Templates feature (database automations) to auto-create recurring entries like weekly reviews
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Share team templates via a dedicated 'Templates' page in your wiki so everyone uses the same formats
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