> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://help.modelreef.io/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://help.modelreef.io/help/workspace-and-organisation/model-templates.md).

# Model Templates

This article explains how **model templates** work in Model Reef.

You will learn:

* What a model template is.
* How to create templates from existing models.
* How to use templates to enforce structure and speed up new builds.

Templates help ensure consistency across models and reduce setup time.

***

## What a model template is

A model template is a normal Model Reef model that you treat as a reusable starting point.

Templates usually contain:

* Branch structures for entities, divisions or projects.
* Preconfigured categories and subcategories.
* Variable stubs or example variables for common lines.
* Standard dashboards and charts.
* Standard reports such as P\&L, Balance Sheet, Cash Waterfall and key KPIs.
* Optional opening assumptions that you plan to overwrite in new models.

When you use a template, you normally duplicate it and then customise the copy.

***

## Creating a template from an existing model

{% stepper %}
{% step %}

### Build or open a model with the desired structure

Start from a model that already includes the branches, categories, reports and dashboards you want to reuse.
{% endstep %}

{% step %}

### Remove client- or project-specific data

Clean out sensitive or specific items before turning the model into a template, for example:

* Remove or anonymise live actuals.
* Reset or simplify assumptions.
* Remove sensitive attachments.
  {% endstep %}

{% step %}

### Save or label the model as a template

Organise or name the model so it’s clear it’s a template, for example:

* Move it into a `Templates` folder.
* Name it `Template - [use case]`, such as `Template - SaaS Model`.
  {% endstep %}
  {% endstepper %}

You now have a template ready for reuse.

***

## Using a template to create a new model

{% stepper %}
{% step %}

### Duplicate the template

Duplicate the template model in the workspace to create a working copy.
{% endstep %}

{% step %}

### Rename the copy

Rename the duplicated model for the specific client, entity or project.
{% endstep %}

{% step %}

### Update the copy for the new use case

Adjust the working copy to reflect the new client or project:

* Update branch names to match the real structure.
* Import or update opening balances and actuals.
* Update key driver assumptions and variables.
* Create or adjust scenario versions if needed.
  {% endstep %}
  {% endstepper %}

All dashboards, reports and valuation settings come across with the template, so you avoid rebuilding them from scratch.

***

## Managing a library of templates

Over time you may build a library of templates, for example:

* `Template - 3 Statement Group Model`
* `Template - SaaS Unit Economics`
* `Template - Retail Multi Site`
* `Template - LBO`
* `Template - Project Finance`

To keep templates useful:

* Review them periodically and update for new best practice.
* Remove or archive templates that are no longer used.
* Align naming conventions and documentation across templates.

Good templates accelerate new work and keep structures consistent across the workspace.

***

## Templates and permissions

Templates behave like normal models for permissions:

* Owners decide who can see and use templates.
* Editors can create new models by duplicating templates.
* Viewers can inspect template structures but cannot change them.

You might keep templates restricted to a core modelling team if they are complex.

***

## Related articles

* [Capacity & Production Planning](/use-cases/manufacturing-and-production/capacity-and-production-planning.md)
* [Build Cross Branch Drivers & Dependencies](/how-tos/data-workflows-and-automation/build-cross-branch-drivers-and-dependencies.md)
* [Variable Overview](/help/drivers-variables-and-timing/variable-overview.md)
* [Manual Time Series Editing](/syntax/variables-syntax/manual-time-series-editing.md)