Take the Harvard and Numeric Outlines, for example. Figuring out how to set up auto-numbering like that is daunting for a new user, but starting from one of the templates makes it considerably easier.
For students who are looking for additional FrameMaker templates, I'll steer them to C:\Program Files\Adobe\FrameMaker9\samples\MoreSamples. This folder contains a variety of templates (some are still pretty clunky, but others may be very close to what you are looking for.) Remember, it's faster to tweak a template than start completely from scratch.
I design all of my own templates from the ground up, and have helped a number of companies do the same thing. However, it takes knowledge, time and money to create a template. In these budget-conscious times, the stock templates may be just what you are looking for.
If you are new to FrameMaker and want to get up to speed quickly, join IconLogic's instructor-led, online Introduction to Adobe FrameMaker 9 class. Too elementary for your skill level? How about the Advanced FrameMaker 9 class? Hope to "see" you there.
About the author: Barbara Binder is the president and founder of Rocky Mountain Training. Barbara has been a trainer for nearly two decades and has been recognized by Adobe as one of the top trainers world-wide.