I have been trying forever to:


1. modify my NORMAL.DOTM
OR
2. Use a different .DOTM file

specific changes margin size and paragraph features

If I edit the normal.dotm file the changes don't stick. When I reopen it, it is the same as original.
If I change the name to normal3.dotm, when I reopen it the changes are still there.

OK, so how to use a new normal? I have no clue!

word 2016
an answer to 1 or 2 or both would be appreciated.
thanks

Open your normal.dotm file.
How to Open the Normal Template in Any Desktop Version of Word (except Mac 2008)

I suspect that you have been trying to save a different document or template as normal.dotm. You should never do this. Only a normal template created by Word will be fully functional. That template can be modified, but should not ever contain text.
“Blank Document” Is Not Blank by Suzane Barnhill, MVP

How to use a different template as the default for new documents:
Letterhead AddIn(s) - Default New Document

now that was easy!!!!!!!!

thanks