How to Format Your Resume Correctly: Complete Guide for 2026

Creating a well-formatted resume is essential for job seekers in today's competitive market. Your resume is often the first impression you make on potential employers, so let’s dive into actionable steps, real examples, and tools that will help you craft a standout resume that gets you noticed.

Why Resume Formatting Matters

Did you know that hiring managers spend an average of 6 to 7 seconds reviewing a resume before deciding whether to consider a candidate? According to a study by the National Resume Writers' Association, 80% of resumes are discarded due to poor formatting. This means that your resume’s format could be the difference between landing an interview or getting lost in the pile. Proper formatting enhances readability and ensures that your key qualifications shine through.

Step-by-Step Guide to Formatting Your Resume

Step 1: Gather Your Information

Before you start formatting, collect all necessary details:

• Work History: Include job titles, company names, and dates of employment.
• Achievements: Be prepared to quantify your accomplishments (e.g., “Increased sales by 30% in Q1 2023”).
• Education & Certifications: List your degrees and any relevant certifications.

Step 2: Choose the Right Structure

Select a resume format that highlights your strengths:

• Chronological: Best for those with a consistent work history. Use this format if you have relevant experience that aligns closely with the job you’re applying for.
• Functional: Ideal for job seekers with gaps in employment or those who are changing careers. This format focuses on skills rather than work history.
• Combination: Merges both chronological and functional formats, showcasing key skills while detailing work history.

Sample Structure

[Your Name]  
[Your Address]  
[Your Email] | [Your Phone Number]  

## Professional Summary  
[2-3 sentences summarizing your experience and what you bring to a potential employer]  

## Skills  
- [Skill 1]  
- [Skill 2]  
- [Skill 3]  

## Work Experience  
**Job Title** - [Company Name], [Location]  
[Month Year] – [Month Year]  
- [Achievement 1]  
- [Achievement 2]  

## Education  
**Degree** - [University Name], [Location]  
[Month Year] – [Month Year]  

Step 3: Craft Compelling Content

Your resume should tell a compelling story of your professional journey:

• Use Action Verbs: Start bullet points with strong verbs (e.g., “Led,” “Designed,” “Implemented”). For example, “Developed a marketing strategy that boosted engagement by 50%.”
• Quantify Your Achievements: Instead of stating “Responsible for sales,” say “Increased sales by 40% within 6 months.” This adds credibility and clarity to your contributions.

Step 4: Review and Revise

Once your resume is drafted, take these steps:

• Proofread: Use tools like Grammarly or Hemingway to catch errors. Consider setting a timer for 10 minutes and reading your resume backward to catch overlooked mistakes.
• Get Feedback: Share your resume with trusted colleagues or mentors for constructive criticism; ask them to focus on clarity and impact.
• Check Format Consistency: Ensure font sizes, bullet points, and spacing are uniform throughout. Consistency is key to a polished look.

Step 5: Optimize for ATS

To improve your chances of passing Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS), adhere to these guidelines:

• Use Standard Headings: Stick to conventional section titles like “Work Experience” and “Education.” This helps ATS easily categorize your information.
• Keyword Optimization: Tailor your resume to the job description by incorporating relevant keywords. For instance, if the job description mentions “project management,” ensure that phrase appears in your resume if applicable.
• Simple Formatting: Avoid graphics, images, and unusual fonts that may not be recognized by ATS. Stick to standard fonts like Arial or Times New Roman in 10-12 point size.

Best Practices for a Winning Resume

• Be Specific: Use clear language and avoid jargon that may confuse the reader.
• Use Metrics: Concrete numbers create a compelling narrative of your achievements.
• Stay Current: Regularly update your resume with new skills and experiences; make it a habit to review it every 3 months.
• Be Honest: Authenticity builds trust; avoid exaggerating your qualifications.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Including Irrelevant Information: Tailor your content to match the job you’re applying for. For example, if you’re applying for a marketing role, emphasize your marketing-related experiences.
2. Using Outdated Formats: Stick to modern, clean designs that appeal to hiring managers. Avoid templates that look cluttered or overly ornate.
3. Neglecting Proofreading: Spelling or grammatical errors can create a negative first impression. Aim for zero errors by using professional tools.
4. Ignoring ATS Requirements: Failing to optimize your resume can lead to rejection by automated systems. Always test your resume with an ATS Checker to ensure compatibility. Check your Resume’s ATS Compatibility →

Tools to Help You Format Your Resume

Consider using the following tools to streamline your resume formatting process:

• Jobfolio's AI Resume Builder: Create a professional resume quickly with customizable templates. Try Jobfolio Free →
• ATS Checker: Ensure your resume meets ATS guidelines before submitting. Check your Resume’s ATS Compatibility →

Conclusion

Formatting your resume correctly is a crucial step in your job search strategy. By following this guide, gathering the right information, and using effective formatting techniques, you can create a resume that not only stands out but also captures the attention of hiring managers and ATS alike.

Call to Action

Ready to take the next step in your job search? Use the tips in this guide to format your resume today and increase your chances of landing that dream job!