Updating templates

Question

I couldn't find any info on this one: Is it possible to make a Pages 08 template, that automatically updates pages that are tied to it. I mean, if I modify styles on that template, those changes would be reflected on all previous documents using that template. In MS Word this is possible, and I am hoping this is somehow possible in Pages too, or am I too optimistic...

Answer 1

You can do this manually by using the Format>Import Styles menu item. This technique works with your own templates - and it would likely work with the built-in templates if someone can tell us where they're located.
If you open the Format>Import Styles menu item, select the document from which you want to import styles, select the styles you want to import (or Select All) AND - most importantly - check the 'Replace duplicates' box, you will 'update' all the styles that have the same name in both documents.
Let's say then that you have updated one of your frequently used templates. To update an earlier document that was based on that template (or any document actually) you would copy the style from it by finding it in username>Library>Application Support>iWork>Pages>Templates>My Templates.
Or if you have updated the styles in a document based on one of your frequently used templates and want to update an earlier document based on the same template - save the document then copy the styles from it into the older document.
It's actually easier than it sounds, although it does take more mouse-clicks than the 'update styles' feature in Word.
You can also 'change' the document template in the same way. All styles with the same name in both documents will change to the match the styles in the document from which you are copying. Thus, as you mentioned, if you plan carefully and use the same style names in all your various templates and documents, you can completely change the look of a document with a few mouse-clicks.
And, just like in Word, this procedure does not update margins or other page-wide settings. This is a shortcoming or a feature, depending on your point of view.
Good luck,
Terry