If you use Microsoft Outlook often, you may have seen an oft file at some point. This file type is mainly used to save email templates. In simple words, it helps you write an email once and use it again anytime without starting from zero. An oft file is very helpful for people who send the same type of email again and again. Instead of typing everything daily, you just open the template, change small details like name or date, and send it. It saves time and keeps your emails neat and consistent.
What Is an oft file?
An oft file is an Outlook email template file. It is created inside Microsoft Outlook and stores a ready-made email format. This includes the subject, message body, text style, images, and sometimes attachments.
The main purpose of an oft file is reuse. When you open it, Outlook creates a new email based on the template. The original template stays safe and unchanged.
It is different from a regular saved email. A normal email file stores a message that was already sent or received. An oft file is meant to be used again and again as a base.
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What Does an oft file Store?
An oft file can store many parts of an email, such as:
- Subject line
- Email body text
- Text formatting like bold or color
- Images and logos
- Attachments
- Pre-filled fields like CC or BCC
This makes it very useful for business communication. Everything stays in the same structure every time you use it.
How an oft file Works in Outlook
When you create a new email in Outlook, you can choose “Save As” and select Outlook Template. That action creates an oft file.
After saving, the file is stored in the templates folder. When you open the oft file, Outlook does not send the email directly. Instead, it opens a new draft based on the template.
You can then:
- Edit names or details
- Add new information
- Attach extra files if needed
- Send the message normally
The template itself does not change unless you edit and save it again.
How to Create an oft file
Creating an oft file is simple if you use Outlook on Windows.
First, open Outlook and click on “New Email.” Write your message exactly how you want it to look every time. Add your company logo, greeting, main text, and closing message.
Once everything is ready:
- Click on “File.”
- Choose “Save As.”
- In the file type list, select Outlook Template.
- Click Save.
Now your oft file is ready to use.
Quick tip: Keep your template general. Do not include personal names or dates unless you are sure you will update them before sending.
How to Open an oft file on Windows
Opening an oft file on Windows is usually easy.
You can simply double-click the file if Outlook is installed. It will open as a new email draft.
Another way is:
- Open Outlook.
- Click on “New Items.”
- Choose “More Items.”
- Click on “Choose Form.”
- Browse and select your oft file.
If the file does not open, check that Outlook is properly installed and updated.
How to Open an oft file on Mac
This is where many users get confused. An oft file is mainly made for the Windows version of Outlook. Outlook for Mac does not fully support this file type in the same way.
If you try to open an oft file on Mac, it may not open directly. In some cases, you may need to:
- Open it on a Windows computer
- Convert it to another email format
- Recreate the template manually in Outlook for Mac
If you work on both systems often, it is better to create separate templates for each platform.
Can You Open an oft file Without Outlook?
In most cases, you need Microsoft Outlook to properly open and use an oft file. Other email programs may not support this format fully.
Some third-party viewers claim they can open an oft file, but formatting may break. Images, layout, or attachments may not show correctly.
For safe and accurate results, it is best to use the official Outlook application.
Expert tip: Always scan any email-related file before opening, especially if you received the oft file from someone else. This keeps your system safe.
oft file vs MSG File
People often confuse an oft file with an MSG file. They are related but not the same.
Here is the simple difference:
- An oft file is a template for reuse.
- An MSG file is a saved email message.
If you want to create repeat emails, use an oft file. If you want to store a specific sent or received email, use an MSG file.
Common Problems With an oft file
Sometimes users face small issues with an oft file.
Some common problems include:
- File not opening
- Formatting looking different
- Attachments missing
- Not working on Mac
Most of these problems happen because of version differences in Outlook or system compatibility issues.
To avoid problems:
- Keep Outlook updated
- Do not rename the file extension manually
- Store templates in the default folder
Is an oft file Safe?
An oft file is generally safe because it is just an email template. However, like any file, it can contain links or scripts if someone adds them.
If you receive an oft file from an unknown sender:
- Do not open it immediately
- Scan it with antivirus software
- Confirm the sender first
Being careful is always better when dealing with email files.
Best Practices When Using an oft file
To get the best results from an oft file, follow these simple ideas:
- Keep your template clear and short
- Use simple formatting
- Avoid too many images
- Test the template before using it widely
- Update templates when company details change
These small steps can save you from sending incorrect information.
FAQS
What is an oft file used for?
An oft file is used to save reusable email templates in Microsoft Outlook. It helps people send similar emails quickly without writing everything again. It is mostly used in offices and businesses.
How do I create an oft file in Outlook?
You create an oft file by writing a new email and choosing “Save As” with the Outlook Template option. This saves the email in template format so you can reuse it later.
Can I open an oft file on Mac?
An oft file does not fully work on Outlook for Mac in the same way as Windows. You may need to recreate the template on Mac or use a Windows system to open it properly.
What programs can open an oft file?
Microsoft Outlook on Windows is the main program that supports an oft file correctly. Other email apps may not open it properly or may show broken formatting.
Can I convert an oft file to another format?
Yes, you can open the oft file in Outlook and then save the email in another format like MSG or EML. This can help if you need to use it outside Outlook.
Conclusion
An oft file is a simple but powerful way to save time in Microsoft Outlook. It lets you create reusable email templates that keep your messages consistent and professional. While it works best on Windows, understanding how it behaves on Mac and other systems helps avoid confusion. If you use Outlook regularly, learning how an oft file works can make your daily tasks much easier. Just remember to keep your templates updated, simple, and safe. By understanding this format clearly, you can use it confidently and correctly.
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