Resumes

A resume is a concise document that presents a person’s education, work experience, skills, and other qualifications for the purpose of applying for a job. It is designed to quickly communicate suitability for a specific position and is usually tailored for each application. In many markets, resumes are one to two pages long and prefer a clear, plain layout.

A typical resume includes several core sections: contact information; a professional summary or objective; work experience with bullets describing responsibilities and achievements; education; and skills. Optional sections can cover certifications, awards, languages, projects, volunteer work, or publications. The emphasis is on concrete results, such as quantified outcomes and notable contributions.

Resume formats vary. The chronological format lists recent roles first and is the most common. The functional format focuses on skills and capabilities, useful for career changers or gaps. The combination format blends both. Best practices include using standard section headings for applicant tracking systems (ATS), choosing legible fonts, using bullet points, starting items with action verbs, and incorporating keywords from the job description. Avoid photos, graphics, and unnecessary personal information; keep content relevant and succinct. Length should reflect experience, with one page typical for early career and up to two pages for more extensive experience.

Resume versus CV: a resume is a concise, job-focused document used in industry and non-academic settings; a curriculum vitae is longer and more detailed, often used in academia and research contexts and varies by region. Regular updates and honest, verifiable claims are essential; references are usually provided upon request rather than included on the resume.