Template Editor
Learn how to create powerful, personalized email templates using DraftMerge's template editor.
Creating a New Template
- Navigate to the "Template" step in DraftMerge
- Click "New Template"
- Enter a name for your template (e.g., "Cold Outreach Q1")
- Write your email subject line
- Write your email body in the editor
- Click "Save" to store your template
Merge Fields (Tokens)
Merge fields allow you to personalize each email with data from your contact list. Use the syntax {{column_name}} to insert dynamic content.
How It Works
If your Google Sheet has columns named first_name, company, and role, you can use:
{{first_name}}- Inserts the recipient's first name{{company}}- Inserts the recipient's company{{role}}- Inserts the recipient's job title
Example
Subject: Partnership opportunity with {{company}}
Body:
Hi {{first_name}},
I saw that {{company}} is hiring for {{role}} positions. I'd love to discuss how we can help...
Special Merge Fields
DraftMerge provides some built-in merge fields:
{{sender_name}}- Your name (from your Google account){{sender_email}}- Your email address{{unsubscribe_link}}- Automatic unsubscribe link (required)
Template Variables
You can use conditional logic and formatting in your templates:
Default Values
If a merge field might be empty, provide a default value:
{{first_name | default: "there"}}
Renders as "Hi there," if first_name is empty.
Preview Your Template
Always preview your template before sending:
- Click the "Preview" button
- Select a sample row from your contact list
- Review how the merged email looks
- Check that all fields are populated correctly
Saving and Reusing Templates
Templates are saved locally in your browser. You can:
- Save multiple templates for different campaigns
- Edit existing templates at any time
- Delete templates you no longer need
- Export templates as HTML files for backup
Best Practices
- Keep subject lines short: Under 50 characters for best open rates
- Personalize the opening: Use {{first_name}} or {{company}} in the first line
- Include a clear CTA: Tell recipients exactly what you want them to do
- Test before sending: Always send a test email to yourself first
- Keep it concise: Shorter emails get better response rates