> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://docs.realmacsoftware.com/elements-docs/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://docs.realmacsoftware.com/elements-docs/using-elements/reusable-content.md).

# Templates and Globals

Templates and Globals both help you reuse groups of components, but they solve different problems.

| Feature                 | Templates                           | Globals                                |
| ----------------------- | ----------------------------------- | -------------------------------------- |
| Best for                | Starting a new layout quickly       | Repeating content across several pages |
| Connection after adding | Independent copy                    | Remains linked                         |
| Later edits             | Affect only that copy               | Can update every linked instance       |
| Common examples         | Hero sections, feature grids, forms | Menus, headers, footers, announcements |

### Templates

[Templates](/elements-docs/using-elements/reusable-content/templates.md) are reusable starting points. After adding one to a page, its components become an independent layout that can be changed without affecting the original Template or other copies.

### Globals

[Globals](/elements-docs/using-elements/reusable-content/global-templates.md) remain linked wherever they are used. Update the Global once to keep shared structures and content consistent throughout the project.

{% hint style="info" %}
Use a Template when each copy should evolve independently. Use a Global when every instance should continue sharing the same source.
{% endhint %}

### Recommended Workflow

1. Build and test the component layout on a page.
2. Decide whether future copies should remain linked.
3. Save independent starting points as Templates.
4. Save site-wide or repeatedly maintained content as Globals.
5. Preview changes on every page where the layout appears.


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