How to Write a Resume — Format and Examples

Resume writing

A resume displays the background of an individual applying for employment. Job applicants use a resume to highlight their qualifications related to a job description. Resumes are typically applicants' first chance to introduce themselves as potential candidates for a job.

Resumes often accompany a cover letter that provides a brief overview of the candidate’s qualifications before providing more specific information in the resume. A strong resume is more likely to make hiring managers and potential employers request a job interview. Always proofread resumes to avoid typos and grammatical errors.

Resume format

While there are a variety of resume templates available, the format remains similar.

The length of a resume depends upon the applicant's experience and work history. While recent college graduates’ resumes may be short, those who have more professional experience will have a longer resume.

The document should have 1-inch margins all the way around. Avoid making margins smaller to fit all the information on a single page as it might negatively impact the document's visual aesthetic.

Choose a legible font type (Times New Roman, Arial, Calibri, etc.) and an appropriate font size (11-12 point). Maintain consistency with both font type and size throughout the entire resume.

Single-space each section of a resume; an extra space should separate each section.

Resumes can contain a variety of sections depending upon the applicant’s experience and the type of job for which they are applying. At a minimum, include the following sections:

• Contact Information

• Objective

• Education

• Professional Experience

• Skills

Each section should contain a heading. Section headings can be bold and/or use a larger font to set them off from the rest of the information.

Section subheadings that identify a school, occupation, skill, etc. should be set apart from bulleted information.

Under each section heading/subheading, use a bulleted list to identify accomplishments. Start each bullet point with an active verb.

Avoid using complete sentences. Instead, use active phrases that contain strong action verbs and adjectives.

Choose a logical order or sequence for the resume:

• Reverse-chronological order resumes start with the candidate's most recent experience at the top.

• Also known as a skills-based resume, functional resumes focus on relevant job skills. Instead of listing job experience based on the date, these resumes start with the candidate's strongest skills.

• Combination resumes incorporate characteristics of a chronological and functional resume. They typically lead with a relevant skills section (functional) and end with a detailed work experience section (chronological).

What to include in a resume

When developing a professional resume, job seekers should include an objective, an education section, and relevant work experience:

Detail the best way for job recruiters to contact you by including your contact information: name, address, phone number, and email address.

Write the resume objective, also called a resume summary, your professional goal as it relates to the job for which you are applying, in 1-2 complete sentences.

In the education section of your resume, start with your most recent degree (completed or in progress) and include the educational institution, location, dates attended (anticipated completion date), field of study/degree, GPA (if above 3.0-3.5), awards/honors, and relevant extracurricular activities.

Do not include high school information if you have earned a college degree.

In the professional experience section, start with your most recent or current job. Identify the company name, location, position, and the dates employed. Each position should contain a bulleted list that highlights relevant achievements made when in the position. Avoid simply listing basic responsibilities; instead, use accomplishments to set yourself apart from others.

Each bullet point should contain a phrase that starts with an active verb and incorporates vibrant yet simplistic descriptions. Include quantifiable metrics if possible.

List relevant skills that play an important role in the position for which you are applying. These should include both soft and hard skills.

Soft skills are transferable skill sets and behaviors, personality traits, and work habits and are not quantifiable. Qualities such as creativity, leadership, critical thinking, public speaking, problem-solving, organization, and interpersonal skills are soft skills.

Hard skills include specific knowledge and abilities and technical skills a person can demonstrate. They are teachable, measurable, and usually focus on specific tasks. The following are examples of hard skills:

• Coding: Python, C++, Java

• Data: Data mining, database management, forecasting

• Software: Microsoft Office, Google Suite, Adobe

• Technical: Science, technology, engineering, arts, and math (STEAM), information technology (IT), computer-aided design (CAD), graphic design

• Writing: Copywriting, proofreading, editing

Include the following resume sections only if they are relevant to the job for which the candidate is applying:

• Associations/Memberships

• Awards

• Certifications

• Internship

• Publications

• Relevant Coursework

• Training

• Volunteer Work

Resume examples

When composing a resume, there are a variety of templates and resume builders available through Microsoft Office, Google Suite, and online. Select a template that is appropriate for the type of job for which the applicant is applying. Regardless of that choice, most resumes will be similar to the following example:

The following example showcases a completed resume: