|
Let’s revisit templates
Canva’s expansive template library provides quick solutions for journalists who know what they need to get accomplished but not quite how to get there. You don’t have to start with a blank screen.
Think:
Those Canva tools — Sheets, Whiteboards, and more — are in addition to the video and social media graphics you might already use within Canva. Templates can save you time and inspire new ideas.
Today, we’re revisiting tips for finding and modifying existing Canva templates.
Find the right template for your project
Open Canva and let’s walk through an efficient search:
Define your need clearly
Ask yourself:
- What type of file do I need? (calendar, spreadsheet, presentation, newsletter, video, social post, etc.)
- Who is my audience? (general public, business owners, employers, colleagues, donors/funders, journalists, etc.)
- What’s the purpose? (inform, persuade, inspire, summarize, advertise)
Start with the correct template type
-
Use broad keywords like “newsletter banner,” “presentation,” “news video,” “portfolio website,” “Instagram story,” etc.
👉 Pro tip: Canva automatically sizes templates for the format you choose, so starting with the right type filters your search from the beginning.
Use specific keywords in the search bar
Instead of just searching “Instagram,” try “Instagram post,” “Instagram story” or “Instagram reel.”
Add descriptors like:
- Style → minimalist, modern, vintage, playful, professional
- Theme → nonprofit, education, marketing, health, news
- Format → timeline, chart, infographic, portfolio
👉 Pro tip: Stick with no more than four keywords to speed your search.
Filter by style and theme
After searching, click Filters to narrow by:
- Color palette (great if you want brand-aligned designs)
- Style (corporate, fun, elegant, bold, etc.)
- Theme (business, education, personal, seasonal, etc.)
Search by use case or goal
Think about what you need the template to do. Examples:
- “News video”
- “Flow chart”
- “Grant proposal”
- “Story planner”
- “Training presentation”
- “How-to infographic”
Include your audience in the search
Search terms like “general public,” “working professionals,” “educators,” or “journalists” can bring up more tailored templates.
Sort by free vs. Pro
If you don’t have Canva Pro, check the Free filter so you can focus on designs you have access to.
Look at related templates
After opening a template you like, scroll down to the “More like this” section. Canva’s algorithm suggests designs with similar layout, mood, or style.
Save templates to folders
If you’re browsing and not ready to decide, click the ⭐️ or “Save to Folder” option. That way, you can build a short list of contenders and compare later.
👉 Pro tip: If you find a template style you love, note the creator’s name (listed under the template). Many designers build full collections across different formats (presentations, posters, reports) so you can stay consistent.
Customize template elements
If you can’t find one perfect template, choose one that’s closest and swap in layouts from another design. Canva lets you combine elements easily (e.g., take a chart from one presentation and drop it into another).
| 
