Every page on my site uses a custom template that has the menu in the left sidebar. However, if a 404 error is encountered, the 404 page is displayed using template format that looks messy.
Referring to this post
http://forum.bytesforall.com/showthr...found+template
I understand that I can just save my preferred layout as a '404.php" HOWEVER, I am afraid to do this without first looking at what is in the 404.php file and then saving it so that if I screw up, I can revert back to it. I realize a site backup solves the second part (the reverting back when I screw up) but I'd sure like to have a look at the working 404.php file so I know what needs to be in it...
Where the heck is the file?

Every page on my site uses a custom template that has the menu in the left sidebar.

do mean a virtual template or a physical template?

go to MTO->Main Template->Add Main Template
- name the template 404 and make it a copy of the 'index.php' template
- style it as you like.

Thanks Juggledad - I guess its a virtual template, which I named left-sidebar..
Instead of starting with index.php I made a copy of left-sidebar, which already had most of the styling I want on the 404 page. I then tweaked the template a bit and all is well. Amazing theme!