How do I create an email template in an email client?

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Email templates are created differently depending upon what type of email application you are using. The general approach is to draft an email as usual for your application then save it as a template.

For instructions on specific applications, see these links: Gmail, Outlook 2003, Outlook 2007, and Thunderbird

Gmail

Gmail has basic functionality for creating templates, but beware that this feature is still in beta so its properties and functionality may change. Because it is in beta you will need to enable Gmail Labs to access the feature (more info on Gmail Labs). Next, go to your "setting" tab in Gmail, select the "Labs" sub-tab. Now you will see a long list of up-and-coming or soon-to-disappear Gmail features. Scroll down to the one titled "Canned Responses" and enable it.

To use Canned Responses, click "Compose Mail" then select "Canned Responses" located just under the subject line. Select "New" and give your template a title. Now, compose your template. When you have completed your work select "Canned Responses" again and select "Save."

To use the template, simply compose a message as usual and select the template name from the "Canned Responses" drop-down menu, update it as needed and send the message.

Labels: Writing Good Messages, Effective Email