Templates are far more than just convenient — In fact, they can be crucial. Check out our simple guide on how to use document templates in Microsoft Word.

Enter a name for the template in the "File Name:" field and select "Word Template" on the "Save As Type:" menu. When you're finished, click "Save" to save your brochure document in Word as a template.

Finally, save the file as a template: In Word 2003, click File > Save As, give the template a name such as "Two-column layout," choose a location for the file (more on this below), select Document ...

Go to "File," then "Save As" and then choose "Document Template." Alternatively, perform the conversion by loading the file into a Word to DOT or DOTX converter, such as the ConvertOnlineFree website.

Word has hundreds of templates to jumpstart your layout. Templates come pre-populated with images and dummy text, both of which are easily replaceable with your own (you can either click on a ...