How to Create a Notion Template: A Complete 2025 Step-by-Step Guide

At a Glance:

Want to boost your productivity with custom workflows? Learning how to create a Notion template can be a game-changer. Whether you’re a student, entrepreneur, or content creator, building a personalized template helps streamline tasks and maintain focus. This guide walks you through everything you need to know—from concept to sharing your template with the world.

Creating a Notion template is one of the most effective ways to harness the power of this all-in-one productivity app. With a customized template, you can save time, stay organized, and ensure consistency across your projects. Whether you’re managing your goals, content calendar, finances, or daily routines, knowing how to create a Notion template can help you build a structure that works for you.

What is a Notion Template?

A Notion template is a pre-built layout or workspace that you can duplicate and use for various purposes. It may include pages, databases, calendars, to-do lists, and even embedded media or widgets. Think of it like a reusable blueprint for organizing your work and life in Notion.

Templates can be as simple as a weekly planner or as complex as a CRM or project management dashboard. Once created, you can use them repeatedly or share them with others.

Why Create Your Own Notion Template?

You might wonder, with thousands of free templates already available, why should you learn how to create a Notion template from scratch? Here’s why it’s worth the effort:

• Personalization: Customize every detail to match your unique workflow.

• Efficiency: Automate repeated tasks with pre-configured layouts and databases.

• Branding: For businesses or content creators, templates can include branding elements like logos and colors.

• Monetization: Sell your templates or offer them as lead magnets.

• Control: Build a system that evolves as your needs change.

Step-by-Step: How to Create a Notion Template

Creating a Notion template isn’t as complicated as it sounds. Follow these easy steps to design, structure, and publish your own Notion template.

Step 1: Plan Your Template

Before jumping into Notion, take a few minutes to outline what you want your template to do. Ask yourself:

• What problem does this template solve?

• Who is it for—yourself, your team, or a broader audience?

• What type of blocks (text, databases, lists, embeds) will it include?

• Do you need automation or integrations?

Mapping this out will help you create a clear, effective layout and avoid unnecessary complexity.

Step 2: Open a New Page in Notion

Once your idea is solidified, open Notion and click on “+ Add a page.” Give your page a relevant title—something easy to identify.

You can start with a blank page or select an existing template to modify. For full control, we recommend starting from scratch.

Step 3: Add Basic Structure and Content Blocks

Now it’s time to build. Notion’s block system makes this easy and intuitive. Here are the most commonly used blocks in templates:

• Text blocks for instructions or descriptions

• Headers (H1, H2, H3) to break down sections

• Checkboxes or to-do lists for tasks

• Databases like tables, boards, calendars, or galleries

• Embeds for YouTube, Google Docs, or widgets

• Dividers and callouts to enhance clarity

Use the “/” command to add any block you want. Think of the layout in sections—like introduction, overview, tasks, deadlines, and notes.

Step 4: Create Reusable Elements

To make your template versatile, create reusable components. For example:

• A weekly planner database that auto-filters for the current week

• A project card template with pre-filled properties

• A task list linked to a master task database

You can also duplicate pages within your template, like having a sample “Meeting Notes” page that users can clone again and again.

Step 5: Format and Polish Your Design

How your template looks matters almost as much as how it works. A clean, user-friendly layout encourages consistent use. Follow these design tips:

• Use consistent font sizes and heading levels

• Add relevant emojis or icons to headings

• Choose a cohesive color scheme for callouts and text

• Use columns to reduce scrolling

• Add toggles to hide non-essential instructions or notes

Preview your template as if you were a first-time user to make sure it’s intuitive.

Step 6: Add Instructions and Placeholders

A common mistake is forgetting to guide the user. Even if the template is just for you, adding placeholders or tips can help future-you stay on track.

Include:

• A short “Welcome” section with instructions

• Placeholder text in blocks (e.g., “Add your goals here”)

• Example data that users can delete after duplicating the template

This step makes your template more user-friendly and easier to scale if you plan to share or sell it later.

Step 7: Share or Publish Your Template

Once your template is complete, it’s time to make it public—or keep it private for your own use.

To share your template:

1. Click “Share” in the top right corner

2. Enable “Share to web”

3. Toggle on “Allow duplicate as template”

4. Copy the shareable link

If you plan to sell or distribute the template on platforms like Gumroad, Etsy, or your own website, link to this shareable URL. You can also submit your design to Notion’s official template gallery.

Tips for Making a High-Quality Notion Template

Whether you’re designing for personal use or to build a brand, here are some expert tips for improving your Notion templates:

Keep It Simple

Don’t over-engineer. A complex template might feel impressive, but it can quickly become overwhelming. Prioritize function and clarity over flair.

Make It Aesthetic

A little design goes a long way. Use icons, custom covers, and subtle colors to enhance visual appeal without making it cluttered.

Use Linked Databases

Linked databases allow you to create multiple views (calendar, list, Kanban) of the same data. This adds flexibility without duplication.

Include Templates within Databases

Database templates are pre-set pages you can create for each new entry. For instance, in a content calendar, a blog post template might include checklists, SEO fields, and deadlines.

Test and Iterate

Once published, use the template yourself or share it with a few friends to get feedback. Notice how people interact with it and make updates as needed.

Best Template Ideas to Inspire You

Need ideas before you learn how to create a Notion template? Here are popular and profitable template types:

• Daily planner

• Habit tracker

• Project manager

• Content calendar

• Freelance client tracker

• Finance tracker

• Student dashboard

• Book or movie log

• Meal planner

• Reading list with summaries

These are high-demand templates that can be adapted to your niche or personal workflow.

How to Monetize Your Notion Templates

If you’re wondering how to turn your Notion skills into income, here are a few routes:

Sell on Marketplaces

Platforms like Gumroad, Etsy, and Notion Market allow creators to sell templates directly to customers. Price them based on value, complexity, and niche demand.

Create a Notion Template Shop

Build your own site (using platforms like Carrd, Framer, or Webflow) and feature your best templates. Add email capture forms to build a list.

Offer Freebies to Build an Audience

Offering a valuable free Notion template can help grow your brand. Use it as a lead magnet, and promote it through social media, newsletters, or blog content.

Join the Notion Creator Community

Notion supports creators with community events, programs, and featuring high-quality templates. Engaging with the community can lead to collaboration and exposure.

Final Thoughts

Learning how to create a Notion template unlocks a new level of productivity, customization, and even monetization potential. It’s not just about making pretty pages—it’s about crafting powerful systems that make your life easier and your work more impactful.

Whether you’re building templates for personal growth, project tracking, or to share with a global audience, the skills you develop here can pay off in big ways. Start with one idea, build it out step by step, and don’t be afraid to iterate as you grow.