How to open DOT files? 4 simple methods of solving such problems
When you encounter a problem with an unknown DOT file and you do not know how to open such file, the first step you should take is to determine the cause of given problem. We will show you how to address most common problems with DOT files and how to solve them in 4 simple steps.
DOT File Extension
- File type Word Document Template
- File developer Microsoft
- File category Layout Files
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File popularity rating
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What is a(n) DOT file?
DOT (Word Document Template) files are templates used by Microsoft Word. They are document files that end with the .dot file extension. DOT files can contain text, images, macros, special formatting, and other features supported by Word. They are used to create new documents based on a common base of settings and content, so that documents appearing similar can easily be made.
The advantage of a DOT file over a normal Word document is that it also holds the formatting for the template, so a user doesn't have to create the same format again and again for different documents. BY utilizing a DOT file, a user can quickly create documents that adhere to the formatting guidelines of a specific organization or project.
How to open DOT file?
In some cases problems may occur when trying to open DOT files. Steps listed below can be helpful in addressing such problems.
Step 1 – Verify whether the file is properly associated with selected software
The first thing user should do is to associate application with DOT files. It may happen so that even when an application that supports DOT files is installed on the system it is not properly associated with this file format. This can be easily remedied by associating program with DOT files. In order to associate such files with given application, user must open the file menu (by right-clicking on the file) and choosing "Open with". A list of suggested applications will be displayed at the top part of menu. Next, select an application and confirm your choice by checking "Always use the selected application to open this kind of files" option. Confirm your selection by clicking OK.
In order to open DOT file, focus on steps 1 and 2
In majority of cases following instruction in step 1 and 2 should be enough to open files with DOT extension. Before attempting the next steps, test all the programs listed below.
Step 2 – Install a program that supports DOT files
Should it happen that the section with suggested programs is empty, it is most probable that no program supporting DOT files is installed on the system. Choose a program from the following list and install it:
Programs that support files with DOT extension
Step 3 – Check for other possible causes of errors
- Corrupted storage medium on which the DOT file is stored
- File data corruption or incompleteness (for example, due to incomplete download or copy process). In such case the file must be re-downloaded or properly copied and then opened again.
- Compatibility issues – check whether DOT extension is compatible with user’s operating system
- Administrative policy settings may prevent user from opening given file
Step 4 – Contact an expert
If you are still unable to open DOT file, you should contact an IT expert. You could also try to contact the developer of given software that supports DOT files. Appropriate website addresses can be found by clicking the name of given program in the list above.
