Gmail is one of the most popular email services, thanks to the many features it offers and its simplicity. It comes pre-installed on most Android devices and works seamlessly on iPhones, iPads, and all computers through a web browser.Chromebook laptopsalso come with it pre-installed as part of ChromeOS, making it even more intuitive to use.

If you send and receive a lot of emails, some help and automation can make your life easier. This is especially true when sending similar messages repeatedly, as templates allow you to make minor edits to a message before sending it instead of writing it up from scratch every time.

Screenshot of the Gmail settings showing the Advanced tab

Gmail lets you create and use templates without the need for add-ons or third-party services. This is also true for Google Workspace users, allowing them to benefit from templates when using Gmail for business. There are a few steps you’ll go through before using them on a daily basis, but we walk you through the step-by-step process to set them up and use them.

How to activate templates in Gmail

Before creating templates in Gmail, you need to activate them, as they’re not active by default:

You’ve now turned on templates in Gmail and are ready to create some to use whenever you need.

Screenshot of Gmail showing how to save a draft as a template

How to create Gmail templates

Now that you’ve activated templates in Gmail, you’ll create at least one to use it at a later stage. Here’s how to do it:

You’ve saved a template, which you can access when composing a new email. You can repeat the above process to create and save as many new templates as you need.

Screenshot showing how to insert a Gmail template when composing an email

How to use Gmail templates when composing an email

Now that you’ve activated templates and created some, here’s how to use them when writing a new email or replying to one.

You’re now ready to edit the template and send it without starting from scratch.

Screenshot showing how to delete a Gmail template

How to delete Gmail templates

If you aren’t using one of your templates and would like to delete it, Gmail allows you to get rid of them easily:

How to edit Gmail templates

Templates are supposed to make your life easier, but you may also need to edit them for added convenience. It’s easy to edit them whenever needed:

Make the most out of Gmail

Gmail templates are designed to make your life easier, giving you quick access to pre-written messages. In addition to this convenient feature, there’s more Gmail has to offer. Google’s email service also offers an Android app with plenty of useful functionality. If you’d like to learn more about it and take your Gmail usage to the next level on your smartphone, check out our list of11 best tips for using Gmail on your Androidphone or tablet.

A Gmail prompt letting you know that the saved template will be overwritten.