xltx

xltx is a file extension used by Microsoft Excel to identify template files saved in the XML format introduced with Office 2007. The abbreviation stands for “Excel Template XML.” Unlike ordinary workbook files, xltx templates provide a preformatted starting point; when a user opens an xltx file, Excel creates a new workbook based on the template while leaving the original template unchanged. This facilitates consistent layout, formulas, and formatting across multiple new spreadsheets.

The xltx format is part of Office Open XML, which employs a ZIP container that holds several XML parts such as worksheets, styles, and relationships. Because it is fully text-based, the files are compatible with various spreadsheet applications that support the Open XML specification, including LibreOffice Calc and OpenOffice.org. However, macro-enabled templates use the .xltm extension, as xltx does not support VBA code.

Typical use cases include company-wide report templates, data entry forms, and standardized financial statements. Users can also convert an existing workbook to a template by selecting “Save As” and choosing the XLTX format. While xltx files cannot be opened directly as workbooks, opening them in Excel duplicates their contents into a new, editable workbook. This mechanism ensures that templates remain pristine while allowing users to create unique copies for each project.