Choosing the best resume format is essential to showcase your skills, experience, and achievements effectively. A well-structured resume ensures that your qualifications stand out and align with the specific role you’re targeting. From reverse chronological to functional and combination formats, each has its unique strengths depending on your career stage and experience. A professional resume format highlights your strengths, organizes information clearly, and passes Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS). Whether you’re a seasoned professional, a career changer, or a recent graduate, selecting the right format helps you make a strong first impression and increases your chances of landing an interview.

resume format

Free Blank Normal Beginner Resume Template

free blank resume template
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  • PSD
  • Ai
  • Microsoft Word
  • Publisher
  • Apple Pages
  • InDesign

Size: (US) 8.5×11 inches + Bleed

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Free Good Attractive Resume Format

free resume format
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  • PSD
  • Ai
  • Microsoft Word
  • Publisher
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Size: (US) 8.5×11 inches + Bleed

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Free Basic Resume Template

free basic resume template
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  • PSD
  • Ai
  • Microsoft Word
  • Publisher
  • Apple Pages
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Size: (US) 8.5×11 inches + Bleed

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Who can use the Simple Resume Formats?

The resume formats can be used by anyone who wishes to apply for a job. Whenever you are applying for a job, you must submit a resume. The content of your fresher resume gives your professional description i.e. your qualifications, skills, achievements, and previous work experience.

Simple resume formats help you in making your resume. Most resume templates can be used to apply for various types of jobs. Functional Resume Templates are best suited for those applying for federal jobs. Students can make use of student resume formats. If your application requires a cover letter then you can use the cover letter template.

Free Modern Resume Template

free modern resume template
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  • PSD
  • Ai
  • Microsoft Word
  • Publisher
  • Apple Pages
  • InDesign

Size: (US) 8.5×11 inches + Bleed

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Free Sample Resume with Experience Template

free sample resume template
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  • PSD
  • Ai
  • Microsoft Word
  • Publisher
  • Apple Pages
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Size: (US) 8.5×11 inches + Bleed

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Free Simple Modern Resume Template

free simple modern resume template
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  • PSD
  • Ai
  • Microsoft Word
  • Publisher
  • Apple Pages
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Size: (US) 8.5×11 inches + Bleed

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Free Simple Proper Resume Template

free simple resume template
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  • Ai
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Size: (US) 8.5×11 inches + Bleed

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Free Professional Graphic Designer Resume Template

free professional resume template
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  • Ai
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  • Publisher
  • Apple Pages
  • InDesign

Size: (US) 8.5×11 inches + Bleed

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Free Generic Resume Template

free generic resume template
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  • Indesign

Size: (US) 8.5×11 inches + Bleed

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Free Teacher Resume Format

free teacher resume format
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  • InDesign

Size: (US) 8.5×11 inches + Bleed

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Free Graduate Resume Template

free graduate resume template
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  • PSD
  • Microsoft Word
  • Publisher
  • Apple Pages

Size: (US) 8.5×11 inches + Bleed

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Free Diploma Resume Template

free diploma resume template
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  • PSD
  • Microsoft Word
  • Publisher
  • Apple Pages

Size: (US) 8.5×11 inches + Bleed

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Free Simple Fresher Resume Template

simple fresher resume template
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  • PSD

Size: (US) 8.5×11 inches + Bleed

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Free Standard HR Resume Format

free hr resume format
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  • Ai
  • Microsoft Word
  • Publisher
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Size: (US) 8.5×11 inches + Bleed

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Free Best IT Resume Format

free it resume format
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  • PSD
  • Microsoft Word
  • Apple Pages

Size: (US) 8.5×11 inches + Bleed

Free Download

Professional Resume Format

professional resume formatmtsu.edu
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File Format
  • PDF

Size: 404 KB

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This is an extremely useful printable resume format and an easy one to follow. It is a guide that will help you step by step in building your resume with professional look.

Functional Undergraduate Resume Format

functional resume formatdol.gov
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  • Doc
  • Docx

Size: 8kB

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This is a very well-made simple resume format that will help you in creating a very neatly built modern resume which will be of great benefit especially in applying for federal jobs.

Cover Letter Format For Resume

cover letter format for resumerowan.edu
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  • Doc
  • Docx

Size: 48 kB

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If you wish to write a professional cover letter PDF that states your reasons and qualifications for applying for the post, this simple resume format Word will be extremely useful for you.

Chronological Resume Format

chronological resume formatnavymwr.org
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  • PDF

Size: 82 KB

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This simple resume format gives you the order in which you should write different things on a resume. It also contains a sample resume in pdf which you can use as a reference.

High School Student Resume Format

student resume formatclassnet.wcdsb.ca
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  • Doc
  • Docx

Size: 18 kB

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If you are a student who wishes to apply for a part-time job while pursuing your studies at the same time, you can make use of this simple resume template to create your resume.

legal resume formatlaw.gmu.edu
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  • Doc
  • Docx

Size: 86 kB

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How to use Simple Resume Formats?

Simple resume formats are to be used based on the types of templates they are. There are 3 types of templates- guidelines, samples, and blank templates. If the template contains guidelines, then you should follow all the instructions given in it step by step. You can also see caregiver resume templates.

If the template contains a sample resume, you should study it to understand what format you should follow and in what order you should write different things in your resume. In cases of blank templates, you have to fill in specific information about yourself like your academic qualifications, skills, work experience, etc in the clearly defined regions.

The format of the Resume Outline Worksheet

resume outline formatctdol.state.ct.us
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File Format
  • PDF

Size: 158 KB

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Blank Resume Format

blank resume formattest.ncdjjdp.org
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File Format
  • PDF

Size: 60 KB

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Entry Level Resume Format

entry level resume formatcareercenter.depaul.edu
Details
File Format
  • PDF

Size: 659 KB

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Sample Resume Format

sample resume formatcapilanou.ca
Details
File Format
  • PDF

Size: 417 KB

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Resume Format for Pharmacy

pharmacy resume formatutoledo.edu
Details
File Format
  • PDF

Size: 277 KB

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Professional Job Resume Format

job resume formatmarymount.edu
Details
File Format
  • PDF

Size: 2 MB

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College Admission Resume Format

high school resume formatkleinhs.kleinisd.net
Details
File Format
  • PDF

Size: 198 KB

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Internship Placement Resume Format

internship placement resume formateducation.msu.edu
Details
File Format
  • Doc
  • Docx

Size: 18 kB

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Sample Resume Format for Executive

executive resume formatdmna.ny.gov
Details
File Format
  • Doc
  • Docx

Size: 5 kB

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MBA Resume Format

mba resume formatmanagement.ind.in
Details
File Format
  • PDF

Size: 114 KB

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Call Center Manger Resume Format

call center manger resume formatwindows.net
Details
File Format
  • PDF

Size: 44 KB

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Current Mechanical Engineer Resume Format

free certified mechanical engineer resume template
Details
File Format
  • MS Word
  • Apple Pages

Download

How to Format a Resume

how to format a resume

A well-formatted resume ensures that your qualifications are presented clearly and professionally, making it easier for recruiters and hiring managers to assess your fit for the role. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to format your resume:

1. Choose the Right Resume Format

  • Reverse Chronological: Lists work experience starting with the most recent. Best for candidates with a steady career progression.
  • Functional: Focuses on skills and achievements rather than work history. Ideal for career changers or those with employment gaps.
  • Combination (Hybrid): Merges skills and experience, suitable for professionals with diverse qualifications.

2. Use a Professional Font and Design

  • Fonts: Use clean, easy-to-read fonts like Arial, Calibri, or Times New Roman.
  • Font Size: Use 10–12 points for body text and 14–16 points for headings.
  • Margins: Set margins to 1 inch on all sides for a clean layout.
  • Line Spacing: Use single or 1.15 spacing for readability.

3. Add Clear Sections with Headings

Organize your resume into the following sections:

  • Contact Information: Include your name, phone number, email, LinkedIn profile, and portfolio (if applicable).
  • Professional Summary/Objective: A brief statement highlighting your career goals and key qualifications.
  • Skills: List relevant technical and soft skills tailored to the job description.
  • Work Experience: Include job title, company name, location, dates, and bullet points detailing achievements.
  • Education: Mention your degree, institution, and graduation date.
  • Certifications (Optional): Include relevant certifications to enhance your qualifications.

4. Prioritize Key Information

  • Place your most important sections (e.g., Professional Summary, Skills, and Work Experience) at the top.
  • Use bullet points to highlight achievements and responsibilities.

5. Focus on Readability

  • Use Bold and Italics: Emphasize job titles, company names, and headings.
  • Avoid Overcrowding: Leave enough white space to make the resume visually appealing.

6. Align Your Content Consistently

  • Align headings, dates, and bullet points consistently for a polished look.
  • Use a single date format throughout (e.g., MM/YYYY).

7. Quantify Achievements

  • Use metrics to show impact (e.g., “Increased sales by 25%” or “Managed a $500K project budget”).

8. Save in the Right Format

  • Save your resume as a PDF to preserve formatting and ensure compatibility.
  • Name the file professionally (e.g., “John_Doe_Resume.pdf”).

FAQs

What is the best resume format for 2025?

The reverse chronological format is the most popular and effective resume format in 2025, as it highlights recent work experience and career progression. However, a functional or combination format may be better for career changers or those with gaps in their employment history.

How do I choose the right resume format?

Choose the reverse chronological format if you have a consistent career history, the functional format if you want to emphasize skills over experience, and the combination format if you have a mix of skills and a solid work history. Match the format to your career stage and the job’s requirements.

What is the difference between chronological, functional, and combination resumes?

A chronological resume focuses on work history, starting with the most recent job. A functional resume highlights skills and achievements over job history. A combination resume blends both, listing skills first and then work experience.

Is a one-page resume better than a two-page resume?

A one-page resume is preferred for entry-level candidates or those with less than 10 years of experience. A two-page resume is acceptable for professionals with extensive experience or complex job histories, as long as it remains concise and relevant.

What format is best for Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS)?

A simple, reverse chronological format with clear headings, bullet points, and no fancy designs is best for ATS. Use standard fonts, include relevant keywords from the job description, and save the file as a PDF or Word document.

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