Normal.dot: Open .dot File Tricks

by Cheryl Flanders ^Ž Fri, Jul 18, 2003, 13:21:34

The location of the normal.dot file depends on the version of Word *and* Windows. When you want to open the file for editing, you do not have to go on a hunt for the file. Save a shortcut to normal.dot on your Desktop:

1. With Word open, go to File / Save.
2. Change the Save as Type box to Document Templates (*.dot).
3. Right-click on normal.dot and select Send To / Desktop (Create Shortcut).
4. Click Cancel to close the Save dialog box.

Double-click on the shortcut icon to launch Word with a blank document. Right-click the icon and select Open to open the dot file.

The icon can be dragged to the Start Menu where you can assign a shortcut key to open: Right-click the shortcut, select Properties and key your shortcut in the Shortcut Key box. Or drag the icon to the Quick Launch toolbar (to the right of the Start button).

If you frequently edit other templates (.dot files), create shortcuts to your Desktop. Organize the shortcut icons in their own Folder on your Desktop: Right-click a blank area on your Desktop and select New / Folder. Drag and drop the icons on the folder. Deleting an icon does not delete the file.

Remember, these are a "shortcut" icons, not actual file icons. You cannot use the icons to back up files to floppy/Zip/CD. However, it is quick to back up template files in File/Save or Save As: Change the Save as Type box to Document Templates (*.dot), right-click the file and select SendTo.

Another trick to opening a dot file is to add the file to the Work Menu. See "Work Menu to quickly access documents" in Cheryl's Articles.

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Related link: Tips 'N Techniques in MS Word