How to Insert a Content Block into a Template
Learn how to insert a content block into a template in Smarter Drafter Pro.
Once a Content Block has been created and linked to a Section Block, you can insert it into any Word template using the Word Add-In. This allows you to reuse tested, formatted content without having to rebuild it in each document.
Instructions
1. Open Your Template in Microsoft Word
- Launch Microsoft Word and open the template you want to add the Content Block to.
- Ensure the Smarter Drafter Word Add-In is installed and open.
- In the Add-In, go to the Content Blocks tab.
- Browse or search for the Content Block by name.
- Place your cursor where you want to insert the block in the Word document.
- Click Insert.
The Content Block will appear as a purple content control. It will not display its full content in Word — only the placeholder.
2. Apply Styling Around the Content Block
- You can add headings, section breaks, or formatting outside the purple content control as needed.
- Avoid placing tables, images, or field codes inside the purple content control — all structure and formatting must come from the original Content Block.
- If you need to update layout or content inside the block, you must edit the original Content Block Word file and re-upload it.
3. Understand Post-Generation Behaviour
- When the form is submitted and the template is generated, the full Content Block will replace the purple content control.
- Any fields within the block (e.g. ) will be populated using data from the linked Section Block.
If you later update the Content Block, you’ll need to re-upload this template to pick up the changes.
Tips for Use
- Always test the generated document using real submission data to ensure the Content Block outputs correctly.
- Name your Content Blocks clearly so template builders can easily find the right one in the Add-In.
- You can insert multiple Content Blocks into a single template if needed.
Common Issues & Solutions
- Issue: I can’t see the Content Block in the Add-In.
- Solution: Ensure the form linked to your template includes the correct Section Block. Content Blocks only appear if their Section Block is part of the form.
- Issue: The generated document shows a blank space where the Content Block should be.
- Solution: Make sure the Content Block was properly uploaded and hasn’t been deleted or disconnected from the Section Block.