To create a document, you can start with a blank document or a template, or use an AppleWorks Assistant.

•	Templates are preformatted documents containing content that you can tailor to your needs.
•	Assistants provide step-by-step guidance for creating specific types of documents, such as a simple calendar or an envelope.

Note: To help you remember what kind of document you're working in, AppleWorks adds a two-letter document-type designation in the window title bar (WP for word processing, SS for spreadsheet, DB for database, DR for drawing, PT for painting, and PR for presentation). This designator is not saved as part of the filename when you save the document.

Creating a blank document

To create a blank document from the Starting Points window:

1	If the Starting Points window isn't visible, choose Show Starting Points from the File menu.
2	On the Basic panel, click the button for the type of document you want to create.

To create a blank document with the New command:

•	Choose New from the File menu, then choose the type of document you want from the submenu.

Note: The Command -N keyboard shortcut opens a word-processing document. You can change this preference.

To create a blank document with the Button Bar:

1	If the Button Bar isn't open, choose Show Button Bar from the Window menu.
2	Click the button for the type of document you want to create.

Tip: If you always perform the same sequence of commands when you create or open a specific document type, you can have AppleWorks perform those commands automatically by creating a macro.

Using an Assistant or template

To create a document using an Assistant or template:

1	If the Starting Points window isn't visible, choose Show Starting Points from the File menu.
2	On the Assistants or Templates panel, click the button for the Assistant or template document you want.

Tip: If you typically start with the same text, graphics, or formatting options for a particular document type, you can create default template documents that AppleWorks opens whenever you create a new document of that type.