How to Create Files from Templates in Windows File Explorer

Keep the starter file once. Create a fresh copy wherever you need it.

Quick answer: Windows' New menu is a great idea and accessible but offers a very limited set of templates that you can't customize. With New++ you can completely customize and group templates to your needs and liking.

Finding yourself creating similar files or folder structures? With New++ you can streamline all that.

Step by step

  1. Right click a folder.
  2. New++ -> Open templates.
  3. Add your file or folder template.
  4. To reuse. Right click a folder and choose New++ -> your newly added template. Simple AND there are many more capabilities to explore!
New++ menu with project templates, a nested template group and Open templates
Choose Open templates to manage your starter files. This customized menu also shows a group of templates and date-based names; your own entries will differ. View full-size screenshot.

Ways to do it

Use what's built into Windows, the tools you already have, or Productivity Plus Pack — they work well together.

Built into Windows

Use the list of files listed under New.

With New++

Completely customize your own starter/template files and folder. And use powerful variables and prompts to help streamline file and folder creation.

With PowerToys New+

New+ and New++ are very similar and come from the same team. The extra + stands for extra features that New++ gets first; see how they work alongside your other tools.

Frequently Asked Questions

More about New++ · Full New++ guide · More how-to guides

Can templates contain existing content?

Yes. A template is a starter file, so the new copy includes its contents.

Can I put today's date in its name?

Yes. For example, Meeting $YYYY-$MM-$DD.md uses the current date. The New++ guide covers variables and prompts.

Can I create a whole folder structure?

Yes. See how to create a project folder from a template.

Try it free with Productivity Plus Pack

Try every feature free for 30 days, no account or credit card needed. After the trial, choose a one-time payment for the direct download or a monthly subscription for the Microsoft Store edition.