Set Default Task Templates in ClickUp Lists
Setting a default task template for a List in ClickUp helps your team create consistent tasks with the right fields, descriptions, and settings every time. This guide explains how to configure, apply, and manage default task templates step by step.
What a Default Task Template Does in ClickUp
A default task template in ClickUp automatically applies a chosen template whenever you create a new task in a specific List. This ensures every task in that List starts from the same structure.
When you set a default template for a List:
- Every new task created directly in that List uses the selected template.
- Task details such as description, custom fields, assignees, and dates can be prefilled.
- Teams save time by not rebuilding the same task layout repeatedly.
You can override or remove the default any time if your workflow changes.
Requirements for Using This ClickUp Feature
Before you set a default task template, check the following requirements in ClickUp:
- You must have the Edit permission for the List where you want to configure the default.
- You need at least one saved task template available in your Workspace.
- You must be using a view where the List sidebar or settings are accessible.
If you do not have permission to edit the List, ask a Space or Folder admin to update sharing or access settings.
How to Set a Default Task Template in ClickUp Lists
Follow these steps to set a default task template for a List in ClickUp. Once set, every new task created in that List will start from your chosen template.
Step 1: Open the List in ClickUp
- Navigate to the correct Space and Folder in ClickUp.
- Click the List where you want to apply a default task template.
Make sure you are in the right List, because the default template setting is specific to each individual List.
Step 2: Access ClickUp List Settings
- In the List view toolbar, locate the three-dot menu (more options) for that List.
- Click the three-dot icon to open the List settings menu.
Your options may vary slightly depending on your plan and view, but the default template setting is stored in this List menu.
Step 3: Select the Default Task Template Option
- In the List menu, look for an option related to Templates or Default Task Template.
- Click the option to open the task template selection window.
This window shows your available task templates that can be applied as the default in ClickUp for this List.
Step 4: Choose the Template You Want
- Review the list of existing task templates.
- Select the template you want to use as the default for this List.
- Confirm your selection to save it as the default task template.
Once confirmed, ClickUp will use this template as the base for every new task created directly in the List.
How the Default Task Template Works in ClickUp
After you set a default template, ClickUp applies it automatically when you create new tasks in the List using standard creation methods.
When the Default Template Is Applied
The default template is used when you:
- Click the + Task button inside the List.
- Use inline task creation at the bottom of the task list.
- Create tasks from certain views that are filtered to that specific List.
The template can include information such as:
- Task name patterns
- Descriptions and checklists
- Assignees or watchers
- Custom field values
- Due dates or start dates
- Tags and priorities
When the Default Template Is Not Used in ClickUp
There are situations where the default List template may not apply automatically in ClickUp:
- When a task is created from another view that overrides the List settings.
- When a different template is chosen manually during task creation.
- When a task is created via automation or an integration that specifies its own template or fields.
In those cases, ClickUp respects the more specific setting or manual choice.
How to Change or Remove a Default Template in ClickUp
You can update or remove the default task template at any time if your process changes.
Change the Default Task Template
- Open the List in ClickUp.
- Click the three-dot menu for the List.
- Select the Default Task Template or equivalent option again.
- Choose a different task template from the template list.
- Confirm to save the new default.
From now on, new tasks created in that List will use the new default template.
Remove the Default Task Template Entirely
- Open the same default template settings window in ClickUp from the List menu.
- Look for an option such as Remove default or Clear.
- Confirm you want to remove the default template.
Once removed, new tasks created in the List will not automatically use any template unless you select one manually.
Tips for Managing List Templates in ClickUp
To fully benefit from default task templates in ClickUp, keep these best practices in mind:
- Standardize by workflow: Create separate Lists for different workflows, each with its own default template.
- Keep templates updated: Periodically review your templates to reflect your latest processes.
- Use naming conventions: Name templates clearly so it is easy to select the right one for each List.
- Leverage custom fields: Build key process data into template custom fields so every task captures what you need.
By maintaining well-organized task templates, ClickUp Lists become a powerful way to enforce consistent task creation across your Workspace.
Learn More About ClickUp and Task Templates
For more detailed, official instructions on how to set a default task template for Lists in ClickUp, review the original documentation on the ClickUp Help Center: Set a default task template for Lists.
If you want expert help optimizing your workspace setup, automation, and processes around ClickUp, you can also explore consulting resources such as Consultevo.
By combining clear templates with thoughtful List structure, ClickUp can become a central hub for reliable and repeatable workflows across every team.
Need Help With ClickUp?
If you want expert help building, automating, or scaling your ClickUp workspace, work with ConsultEvo — trusted ClickUp Solution Partners.
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