Default View Templates in ClickUp
ClickUp lets you turn your favorite view configurations into default view templates so new views start with the right layout, grouping, filters, and visible columns. This saves time, keeps your Workspace consistent, and helps every team member see the information they need immediately.
This how-to guide explains exactly how to create, apply, and manage default view templates using the options available on the platform.
What are Default View Templates in ClickUp?
A default view template is a reusable configuration for a specific view type in ClickUp. Instead of rebuilding the same layout over and over, you can apply a default template so new views automatically inherit your preferred settings.
Defaults can include:
- Visible columns or fields
- Grouping and sorting preferences
- Filters and search parameters
- Sidebar and panel visibility
- Other view-specific options, like swimlanes or subtask display
Default view templates are applied each time you create a new view of that same type within supported locations.
Where Default View Templates Work in ClickUp
Default view templates are available in most areas where you create and manage views in ClickUp. This allows you to keep a consistent experience across your hierarchy and major tools.
You can use default view templates for views created in:
- Spaces
- Folders
- Lists
- Everything level
- Dashboards (where applicable view types exist)
Each view type can have its own default template, so a List view can use one template while a Board view uses another.
How ClickUp View Templates Work with Defaults
ClickUp supports both general view templates and default view templates. General templates can be applied at any time, while default templates are automatically applied when you create a new view of a specific type.
Key behavior:
- Default templates are optional; you can still create views from scratch.
- Changing a default template does not change existing views; it only affects newly created views.
- You can override defaults for special cases by applying a different template or adjusting the view manually.
How to Create a Default View Template in ClickUp
To make a default view template, you first configure a view exactly how you want it, then save that configuration as a template and mark it as the default.
Step 1: Configure Your View in ClickUp
- Open the Space, Folder, List, or Everything level where you want to set up the view.
- Select the view type you want to use (for example, List, Board, Calendar, or Gantt).
- Adjust the view settings, such as:
- Filters for status, assignee, or custom fields
- Grouping by status, assignee, or priority
- Sorting by due date, name, or another field
- Visible columns or fields
- Subtask and relationship display options
- Confirm that the view looks and behaves the way you want new views of this type to behave by default.
Step 2: Save the View as a Template
- With the view open, locate the view settings menu (typically shown as three dots or a similar menu icon on the view tab).
- Click the menu to open more options.
- Choose the option to save or create a view template.
- Give your template a clear, descriptive name so others understand its purpose.
- Optionally, add a description that explains when and how to use this template in ClickUp.
- Save the template.
Step 3: Set the Template as the Default in ClickUp
- Open the template selector or view template management panel from the view settings.
- Locate the template you just created.
- Select the option to set this template as the default for that view type.
- Confirm your choice. From now on, new views of this type in the selected location will start with this configuration.
How to Apply a Default View Template Automatically
Once a default view template is set, ClickUp will automatically apply it whenever a user creates a new view of that type in the same location.
- Go to the Space, Folder, List, or Everything level.
- Click the + View button or equivalent option to add a new view.
- Choose the view type (for example, List or Board).
- The new view will open using the saved default template’s layout, filters, and other configurations.
You can then fine-tune the view without changing the underlying default template.
How to Change a Default View Template in ClickUp
If your process evolves, you may need to update or replace your default configuration. You can do this at any time.
Update the Existing Default Template
- Open a view that is based on the current default template.
- Adjust filters, grouping, and visible columns to match your new process.
- Open the view settings menu.
- Choose the option to update the existing template with the current view settings.
- Confirm that you want to overwrite the template.
Future views using this default will now reflect the updated configuration.
Set a Different Template as the Default in ClickUp
- Create or open another view configured the way you prefer.
- Save it as a new view template.
- Open the template management or selector menu.
- Find the new template and set it as the default.
- Optionally, remove default status from the old template if you no longer plan to use it.
How to Remove or Clear a Default View Template in ClickUp
You can remove a default if you prefer to start new views from scratch or use view templates manually.
- Open the template management panel from any relevant view.
- Locate the template that is currently marked as default.
- Use the option to clear or unset it as the default.
- Confirm your choice.
After you remove the default, newly created views of that type will no longer automatically load a template, although you can still apply templates manually when needed.
Best Practices for Using ClickUp Default View Templates
To get the most out of default view templates, align them with your team’s workflows and standards.
- Standardize by hierarchy: Use different defaults at Space, Folder, or List level if those areas follow different processes.
- Use clear naming: Name templates according to teams, workflows, or reporting needs so everyone quickly understands their purpose.
- Review regularly: As your processes change, revisit default settings to keep them accurate and helpful.
- Limit complexity: Avoid overloading defaults with excessive filters or advanced options that might confuse new users.
More Help with ClickUp View Templates
To see the original product documentation used as the basis for this guide, review the official article on default view templates here: Default View Templates in ClickUp.
If you want expert implementation support, workflow design, or optimization for your workspace, you can also visit Consultevo for consulting services around setup, automation, and process improvements.
By configuring default view templates correctly, you ensure every new view in ClickUp starts with a consistent, optimized layout—making your workspace easier to navigate and your teams more efficient.
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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