WordPress page templates control layout while pages store content — understanding this separation is key to avoiding common editing mistakes. Classic themes use PHP template files (page.php, page-about.php, named templates with Template Name headers), while block themes use HTML block templates managed through the Site Editor. The template hierarchy loads the most specific matching template first, falling back to more general ones. Custom templates can be created for reuse across pages or targeted to specific slugs/IDs. ACF extends this system by supplying structured custom field data, custom post types, and ACF Blocks that integrate with both classic and block-theme templates. The guide also covers troubleshooting missing template dropdowns and how page builders interact with the native template system.
