---
title: "Template Strand — AP Bio Definition & Exam Guide"
description: "The template strand is the DNA strand RNA polymerase reads to build mRNA during transcription. Learn how it connects to DNA replication and base pairing for AP Bio."
canonical: "https://fiveable.me/ap-bio/key-terms/template-strand"
type: "key-term"
subject: "AP Biology"
---

# Template Strand — AP Bio Definition & Exam Guide

## Definition

The template strand is the DNA strand that serves as a guide for synthesizing an RNA molecule during transcription.

## Related Study Guides

- [6.2 DNA Replication](/ap-bio/unit-6/replication/study-guide/dWnyvQBkJXbdCZAXGCfQ)
- [6.3 Transcription and RNA Processing](/ap-bio/unit-6/transcription-rna-processing/study-guide/yDYxXivMePm9Kw0GI5jC)

## Review

### Related Terms

- [Coding Strand](/ap-bio/key-terms/coding-strand): This is the DNA strand complementary to the template strand. It has the same sequence as the mRNA (except T in place of U) - similar to a mirror image of the blueprint.
- Antisense Strand: Another name for the template strand because its sequence is opposite (or anti) to that of mRNA.
- Sense Strand: Another name for coding strand because its sequence makes sense when read in 5' to 3' direction, just like how we read text from left to right in English.