Giant Creature Template

[Mavrickindigo]

So the giant creature template says "increase by one size category" then it says "gain a size bonus of +4 str and +4 con and -2 dex"

Now. Say I'm going to increase a tiny creature to small. The generic rules for size increase says it gets +4 str and -2 dex.

If I"m applying the template, do I add +8 str and -4 Dex and +4 con? or do I ignore the standard +4/+4/-2 in favor for the ability scores presented in the template?

[Mavrickindigo]

Also I had a thought, is it because it's a size bonus, I look at both the general size change AND the template, and just take the better value? so a tiny turning to small would get +4 STR/Con and-2 dex?

[wraithstrike]

The template is a specific rule. Specific rules trump general rules, so you follow the template if you use the template. If you use the polymorph spells then you follow the general rules.

As the GM you can just say its permanent.