Using the Template tab
One of my favorite things to do in my financial models is to create a template tab.
This gives me a strong starting point anytime I need to add a new tab to my model.
Instead of starting from scratch, I have a bunch of stuff all ready to go.
Let’s have a look at how I’ve set this up, and how you can too with your models.
⬇️ Download my template tab and start using it
Why You Need a Template Tab
Every Financial model is different…
containing unique information about your business model.
But at the same time…there’s a lot of similarity.
For example…every financial model should have a headcount build.
And just like there are similarities from one financial model to another…
there are also similarities across each of your tabs.
Having a template tab is a great way to include uniformity in all of your tabs, and utilize a
bunch of prebuilt assets that you’ll want to reuse across multiple tabs.
What to Include in a Template Tab.
First…I like to always include a proper header at the top of each tab.
This header should show:
Your company name
The name of the tab
An error check status (IE, whether there are any errors in the model)
I also like to include a few lines with different formatting, showcasing either a header row, or a subheader row, as such:
I am also a big fan of aggregating all of my monthly values into Annual and Quarterly columns as well.
The idea is that all of my inputs will original in my monthly section, while the Annual & Quarterly section will either sum, or index these values:
Lastly, I usually will include some form of a waterfall table on my excel tabs.
As a refresher, waterfall tables make it really easy for you to allocate certain values, such as creating a deferred revenue amortization schedule
all I need to do is unhide my template tab, make a copy, and I’m ready to start on a prebuilt canvas.
If you’re looking to learn more about how I structure my formulas on this tab, be sure to download my free template to follow along.