Adding a default template to a Notion database ensures every new entry starts with a consistent structure. When you create a new page inside a database view, Notion can automatically apply a pre-designed template instead of a blank page. This saves time and reduces formatting errors across your team. This article explains how to create, assign, and manage default templates for any Notion database.
Key Takeaways: Adding a Default Template to a Notion Database
- Database menu > Templates > New Template: Opens the template editor where you build the default page layout.
- Template Name and blue template button: Assign a name and enable the template as the default for new database entries.
- Template properties and content blocks: Pre-fill property values, headings, to-do lists, and any other block type.
What a Default Template Does in a Notion Database
A default template in a Notion database is a pre-built page structure that Notion applies automatically when you create a new entry. Instead of starting with an empty page, the new entry contains the template’s content, property values, and layout. This is useful for databases that require consistent data entry, such as project trackers, CRM systems, or meeting notes.
Before you add a default template, ensure your database already exists. The database can be in any view type: table, board, calendar, list, or gallery. Templates work identically across all views.
What You Need
You need edit permissions on the database. In a shared workspace, only users with Can Edit access can create or modify templates. If the database is locked, unlock it first by going to the database menu and selecting Lock Database to toggle it off.
Steps to Add a Default Template to a Notion Database
Follow these steps to create and assign a default template for new entries in any database.
- Open the database menu
Navigate to your database page. In the top-right corner of the database view, click the downward-facing arrow next to the database name. This opens the database menu. - Select Templates
In the drop-down menu, click Templates. A side panel opens showing existing templates or a blank list if none exist. - Create a new template
Click the New Template button. A text field appears to name the template. Type a descriptive name such as Standard Project Entry or Meeting Note Default. - Design the template content
Inside the template editor, add any blocks you want every new entry to contain. You can include headings, text, to-do lists, images, embeds, and database relations. Also set property values in the page properties area at the top of the editor. For example, set a Status property to Not Started or a Date property to the current date using the @now formula. - Enable the template as default
After designing the template, return to the Templates side panel. Find the template you just created. Click the three-dot menu icon next to its name. Select Set as default. A blue checkmark appears next to the template name, indicating it is the default. - Test the default template
Close the Templates panel. Click the New button in the database view or press Ctrl + N on Windows or Cmd + N on Mac. A new page opens pre-filled with your template content and property values.
If you want to change the default template later, repeat steps 1 through 3, then select a different template and choose Set as default. The previous default loses its blue checkmark.
Common Mistakes and Limitations When Using Default Templates
Template Does Not Apply to Existing Pages
A default template only affects new entries created after the template is set. Existing pages in the database remain unchanged. To update existing pages, you must manually edit each one or use a formula to copy property values.
Default Template Not Showing in Certain Views
In board view, the New button at the top of each column uses the default template. However, if you click the + Add button inside a specific column, Notion still applies the default template. If the template does not appear, ensure the database is not filtered to hide that template’s property values.
Accidentally Deleting the Default Template
If you delete a template that is currently set as default, Notion reverts to a blank page for new entries. To avoid this, always set another template as default before deleting the current one.
Template Properties Override Linked Database Views
If the database is linked from another database via a relation property, the template cannot pre-fill the linked property value. You must set the relation manually after creating the new entry.
| Item | Default Template | No Template |
|---|---|---|
| New entry creation | Auto-fills with pre-designed content | Opens a blank page |
| Property values | Can set default property values | All properties are empty |
| Time to complete entry | Reduced by 30-60 seconds per entry | Full manual entry required |
| Consistency across team | High — all entries share structure | Low — each user formats differently |
Default templates are available on all Notion plans, including Free. No paid subscription is required to use this feature.
You can now add a default template to any Notion database and streamline data entry for yourself or your team. Try creating a second template for different entry types and switching the default based on your current workflow. For advanced use, combine the template with database automations to send notifications when a new entry is created using the default template.