How to Write a Resume in 2026: A Step-by-Step Guide

1. Choose a simple, readable format

Use a single column, a standard font such as Inter, Helvetica or Times, and a body size between 9 and 11 points. Reverse chronological order, with your most recent role first, is the format recruiters expect.

2. Put your contact details at the top

Name, email, phone, city and a LinkedIn or portfolio link if it is relevant. You do not need a full address. Make sure the email looks professional.

3. Write a short summary

Three or four lines that say who you are professionally, what you are good at and what you are looking for. Tailor it to the job. Avoid vague adjectives such as hard-working and passionate; state a skill, a sector and a result instead.

4. List experience with results

For each role, give the title, company, location and dates, then three to five bullet points. Start each bullet with a strong verb and finish with the outcome.

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5. Add education and certifications

Degree, institution and years. If you are a recent graduate, put education before experience. Include relevant certifications and licences with dates.

6. Choose your skills carefully

List 8 to 12 skills that match the job description. Group them if you have many. Only include skills you can talk about in an interview.

7. Tailor it to every job

Read the posting and pick out the skills, tools and responsibilities it stresses. Reflect the same wording in your summary, skills and bullets wherever it is true. Tailoring is the single biggest improvement you can make.

8. Check before you send

• →Read it out loud and fix awkward sentences.
• →Check dates, spelling and consistency of formatting.
• →Confirm that it fits one page, or two if you have enough relevant experience.
• →Save it as a PDF with a clear file name such as your-name-resume.pdf.
• →Open the PDF on your phone to check it looks right.

Frequently asked questions