how to make a resume on windows 10

How to Create a Resume in Microsoft Word (Step-by-Step Guide)

If this is your first time creating a resume in Microsoft Word, the process may seem overwhelming. Luckily, this article is here to help! In this step-by-step guide, we will cover how to create an effective resume from start to finish using Microsoft Word.

How Do I Make a Resume in Microsoft Word?

There are two primary methods for making a resume in Microsoft Word:

• ‍ From Scratch: This gives you the ultimate creative control. However, it also requires you to familiarize yourself with all of Microsoft Word’s tools and layout options. Building a resume from scratch can be more time-consuming but also more customizable.
• ‍ From a Template: Microsoft Word offers several pre-made resume templates. By using these, all the formatting and layout creation is handled for you. You simply have to fill in your own information.

To use a template, go to File > New and then select a template from the Resume and Cover Letter section.

How Should I Format My Resume in Microsoft Word?

The format you choose will depend on your experience level!

There are 3 basic resume formats to choose between:

• ‍ Reverse-Chronological: Details your most recent job and works backwards from there. This format focuses heavily on work experience. ‍
• Functional: Focuses on skills and education rather than work experience. This is a good option for recent graduates or applicants with minimal work experience. ‍
• Hybrid/Combination: Combines elements of both the Reverse-Chronological and the Functional. This is a good option for applicants with gaps in their employment history.

Choosing the best format for your needs is key. For more help on this subject, check out our guide on How to Choose the Correct Resume Format in 2024 !

Beautiful resume templates to land your dream job

Make a Resume in Microsoft Word in 7 Easy Steps

First, let’s make sure you can navigate the Microsoft Word ribbon!

The ribbon is the toolbar found at the top of the screen.

It should look something like this:

The main parts of the ribbon you should familiarize yourself with on the Home tab are Font , Paragraph , and Styles .

These are how you will edit the appearance of your text and headers.

You should also familiarize yourself with the Layout tab .

This tab is where you will adjust your margins and add columns!

Once you have taken your time to figure out where all of your tools are, it’s time to begin building your resume!

Important Note: These steps detail how to create a resume in Microsoft Word from scratch. By using one of the program’s pre-made templates, you can bypass many of these steps and simply fill in the pre-made format.

Step 1: Create Your Layout

Let’s begin by visiting the Layout tab .

Here, you can set your margin size and decide if you want to use columns.

Here is a breakdown of these two elements:

‍ We recommend using 1-inch margins on all sides.

This will give you enough white space to keep your resume looking neat without sacrificing too much space.

It will also ensure your formatting looks good on printed versions of your resume. ‍

Columns and Sidebars:

‍ From the columns tab, you will find five options:

• The One , Two , and Three options are how you will create separate columns.
• The Left and Right options are how you will create sidebars! Sidebars are useful because they leave more room for the main text and sections.

From the Home tab , you can edit the following elements of your layout:

‍ Alignment:

‍ Choose between left, center, or right alignment.

We recommend using the left alignment.

Whichever you choose, it is a good idea to keep your alignment consistent across the board. ‍

Line Spacing:

‍ We recommend using 1.15 – 1.5 line spacing for the body text.

For section titles and headers, use 1.5 – 2.0 spacing to help them stand out from the rest of the text. ‍

‍ Use a simple and highly legible font. Try to use only 1-2 fonts throughout your resume.

We recommend the following seven fonts:

• Times New Roman

Step 2: Make Your Title Header

Your title header should contain the following information:

• Your Job Title
• Contact Information
• Professional Social Media Links

Use an H1 header to write your name at the very top.

Use the Normal style to write the rest of your information (see “How Do I Add Different Sections of the Resume on Microsoft Word” below for more information on header styles).

It should come out looking similar to this:

Copywriter Email: [email protected] Phone: (123) 456-7890 Website: Janesmith.com LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/janesmith

Check out some of our free resume examples to see alternative ways of formatting your title header!

Step 3: Write an Objective or Summary

Following your title header will be your resume objective or summary.

This will be a short statement between 1-5 sentences detailing your desired job title, experience, and career goals.

You will want to write this statement in the Normal style .

However, you may want to use a slightly larger font than the rest of the text in other sections.

This will help your objective or summary statement to stand out.

Here is an example of how this might look with the title header example from before:

Resume Objective: I am a copywriter with over 5 years of experience. working with corporate clients. I am seeking the position of Head Copywriter at your company, bringing with me over 10 major corporate clients.

Step 4: Create Your Base Format

By creating a base format, you can save the document as a separate file to return to and fill in again and again.

This will help you to tailor your resume to fit specific jobs!

The idea of the base format is to provide outlined sections with the correct spacing and number of bullet points.

You are essentially creating a skeleton for your resume that you can edit and adjust over time.

By doing so, you ensure you have already allocated the proper amount of space on the resume for each section.

For example, this is what your base Work Experience section may look like:

Work Experience

Job Title 1 , Company Name Date – Date · Descriptive Sentence · Descriptive Sentence · Descriptive Sentence Job Title 2 , Company Name Date – Date · Descriptive Sentence · Descriptive Sentence · Descriptive Sentence ‍ Job Title 3 , Company Name Date – Date · Descriptive Sentence · Descriptive Sentence · Descriptive Sentence

As you gain more work experience, you can return to this base format and make changes as need be.

Because you have already outlined the section, you won’t have to worry about reformatting the entire resume to make a few simple changes.

Step 5: Determine Your Section Organization

Once you have built the base format of your resume, it’s time to determine if your sections are in the optimal location.

For instance, if you are creating a Reverse-Chronological style resume you will want your Work Experience section to come first.

Comparatively, if you are creating a Functional style resume you may want your Skills or Education section to come first.

The order and organization of your sections will impact the impression your resume makes on hiring managers.

Step 6: Fill in the Information

Now that you have created the base format of your resume and chosen the optimal organization, it’s time to fill in your information!

When filling in your information, be mindful of the following 3 factors:

• ‍ Be Concise: Always use simple sentences that clearly describe your strengths and accomplishments. Avoid complex sentences or overly complicated vocabulary and jargon. ‍
• Use Bullet-Points: In each section, use bullet points to separate each thought or idea. This will make your resume more visually appealing and easier to read. ‍
• Choose Compelling Language: Try to avoid repeating the same words or phrases over and over. Mix it up, use keywords, and find the best action verbs to make your resume sound even better!

Not sure how to make your language more compelling on your resume? Take a look at our list of 350+ Action Verbs to Make Your Resume More Effective in 2024 .

Step 7: Double-Check Your Sections

Once you have completed steps 1-6, look back over your resume and make sure you have included all of the key sections.

You should also take some time to consider what additional sections you could include.

Here are the key sections every resume should have:

• A title header with your name and contact information
• An objective or summary statement
• Work experience

As we have covered, the order of these sections will vary depending on the format you have chosen.

However, each of these sections should always be included in your resume.

There are also some additional sections to consider adding.

Here is a quick list of extra sections that can add some extra flair to your resume:

• Awards and achievements
• Certifications
• Unpaid experiences, such as volunteer work or internships
• Relevant hobbies

How Do I Add Different Sections to a Resume on Microsoft Word?

The way to create different sections on your resume comes in two parts:

• Use an H2 header to create the section titles (Work Experience, Education, Skills, etc.)
• Use the Normal style to create the body of text below the H2 header

Here is a breakdown of how to use the H1, H2, H3, and Normal styles within your resume:

Select the Styles window from the Home tab .

From here, you will have options to create headers.

Your heading options are as follows:

• ‍ Heading 1: Use this heading as your largest title. This is what you will use to write your name at the top of the page. Use a bolded font between 16 to 20 pt in size. Use 1.5 to 2.0 line spacing to help the title heading stand out. ‍
• Heading 2: Use this heading to create your section titles. Use a bolded font size between 14 to 16 pt. in size. Make sure these headings are smaller than your title heading. Use 1.5 to 2.0 line spacing to help these headings stand out from the rest of the text. ‍
• Heading 3: Use this heading to create your job titles. Your job titles should be only slightly bigger than the rest of the text. Use a bolded font between 12 to 14 pt. in size. Use between 1.15 to 1.5 line spacing. ‍
• Normal: Use the Normal style to create the body text underneath the heading. Use a regular font between 11 – 12 pt. in size. Use between 1.15 to 1.5 line spacing.

What are the Pros and Cons of Using Microsoft Word to Craft Your Resume?

Microsoft Word is a handy tool to have, especially if your computer comes with the program pre-installed.

Here are 3 pros and 3 cons to using Microsoft Word to create your resume:

• ‍ Total Creative Control: When creating a resume on Microsoft Word directly from your computer, you have total control over the design and format. ‍
• More ATS Friendly: Applicant Tracking Systems are designed to read .doc files, the file format used by Microsoft Word. ‍
• Can be Edited by Recruiters: If you are using a recruitment agency, a Microsoft Word file can be easy to edit by recruiters before sending it off to employers.
• ‍ The Microsoft Word Learning Curve: If you are unfamiliar with Microsoft Word, there can be a pretty steep learning curve that can cause you frustration. ‍
• Time Consuming: Building a resume from scratch can be highly beneficial, but also highly time-consuming. This can become problematic if you need to create a resume quickly. ‍
• Temperamental Templates: Microsoft Word offers tons of free resume templates. On the surface, this is super useful. However, these templates can be tricky to use. One wrong move can mess up the formatting in a big way and be an even bigger headache to try and fix.

Why Should I Use an Online Resume Template or Resume Builder?

By using a resume template from an online provider, such as Easy Resume, you are more likely to find a template that fits your exact needs.

Plus, online resume templates and resume builders often have more design elements that are easier to use compared to Microsoft Word.

Are you interested in using our online templates or resume builder? Check out our beautifully designed resume templates to build your optimal resume!

Final Takeaways

Microsoft Word offers a lot of capabilities to help you build your ideal resume.

Here are five key takeaways for creating a resume on the program:

• Create a base skeleton for your resume that you can use again and again for different jobs.
• Use different heading styles to help your resume title and section titles to stand out.
• Use the column tool under the Layout tab to create sidebars. Sidebars are great for smaller sections, such as certifications or awards!
• Always use concise and compelling language.
• Consider using a template to build your resume faster.

At Easy Resume, we have designed our resume templates and online resume builder to fit your needs. No matter your level of experience or skill at making resumes, we have the tools to help.

Don’t forget to check out our expansive collection of FREE resume guides and examples while you’re here!

Browse more resume templates that fit your role

Ed is a co-founder of Easy Resume. His background in scaling teams at tech startups over the last decade has given him extensive experience and knowledge around how to hire top talent and build successful teams. He enjoys mentoring, coaching, and helping others reach their career goals. When he's not writing about career-related advice, he's playing with his dog, Lilo, or going on long hikes in upstate New York.

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When setting out to write the perfect resume, choosing a format is an important decision. Reverse-chronological resumes are the standard format, so knowing how to craft one is key! This guide will teach you how to write the best reverse chronological resumes.

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Professional resume templates to help land your next dream job.

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Resume templates

Put your best qualities on display with professional, customizable resume and cv templates. no matter your line of work or length of professional history, you'll find resume and cv templates that'll help you get the gig..

Download free resume templates

Land your dream job with free, customizable resume templates. Showcase your potential to recruiters and stand out from other candidates with a professional template. Whether you're applying to corporate positions or creative roles, go with a sleek design or show your creativity with bold colors .

Resumes don't need to look boring—add flair to your professional experience with a creative resume template. There are plenty of resume designs to choose from, like simple resume templates and modern resume templates. Each resume template is fully customizable in Microsoft Word , so you can personalize each design element and add your own text. Using a template also makes it easier to customize your resume for each position you apply to.

Print out as many copies as you'd like or download the template for free to share digitally when applying online. These professional resume templates are perfect for any stage of life or career. Whether you're a high school student, actor, or seeking a career in nursing, you can find any format for any job type.

There are also a variety of free CV (Curriculum Vitae) templates to choose from. A CV is often longer than a resume and contains an in-depth look at your education and professional accomplishments. Like our resume templates, these CV templates are also customizable in Word.

Remember, your next job is only a template away! Once you've customized your resume, explore free cover letter templates to help you land the job.

Use a template to create a resume

If you need help creating a resume or cover letter, start with one of the dozens of professionally-designed resume and cover letter templates that are available in Word.

Go to File > New .

In the search box, type Resume or Cover Letter.

Double-click the template you want to use.

Replace the placeholder text with your own information.

On the File menu, select New from Template .

Create and use your own template in Office for Mac

Making a resume like this while you're online is quick and easy.

Note:  This template comes with a cover letter, so you'll have everything in one document.

Choose one of our resume templates , and open it in Word for the web to make it yours.

As you work on the resume, you'll probably want to rename it.

The template uses a table to line everything up. If you need to add more lines for job experience or education, add rows to the table by going up to Layout under Table Tools and clicking Insert Below (or Insert Above) .

For tips on writing your resume, check out Six steps to developing a great resume .

When you're finished, print it out or share it online. You can do this with the resume still open in Word for the web. No need to save it first (that's already done for you).

To print it, press Ctrl+P, and wait for the Print dialog box.

Note:  If you don't see a Print dialog box, click the link for opening a PDF version of your resume. From there, use the PDF program's Print command.

To share it online, send a link:

Near the top of the screen, click Share .

Under Share , click Get a Link .

Under Choose an option , click View only .

Click Create Link .

Click on the web address to select it, and then copy and paste it into an email, message, or post.

Tip:  If you have a blog or website, you can embed a view of your resume there.

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How to Create a Resume in Microsoft Word

Last Updated: September 25, 2023 Approved

This article was co-authored by Alyson Garrido, PCC . Alyson Garrido is an International Coach Federation accredited Professional Certified Coach (PCC), Facilitator, and Speaker. Using a strengths-based approach, she supports her clients with job search and career advancement. Alyson provides coaching for career direction, interview preparation, salary negotiation, and performance reviews as well as customized communication and leadership strategies. She is a Founding Partner of the Systemic Coach Academy of New Zealand. wikiHow marks an article as reader-approved once it receives enough positive feedback. In this case, several readers have written to tell us that this article was helpful to them, earning it our reader-approved status. This article has been viewed 1,638,126 times.

Resumes detail a person’s work experience, education, skills and achievements. A good resume that is clear, concise and easy to read is essential when looking for a job. Resumes should be word processed and should be neat and tidy. Microsoft Word offers you the option of creating your resume through templates, but you can also create your resume from scratch using Word's formatting features.

Sample Resumes

Creating a Resume from a Template (Word 2003, 2007, 2010, 2013)

• In Word 2007 you will have to click on “installed templates.”
• In Word 2010 it will be “sample templates.”
• In Word 2011 it will be “new from template.” [1] X Research source
• In Word 2013 the templates will be displayed when you click on “New.”

• In Word 2013, after clicking on “New” you will see a number of templates and a search bar which says “search for online templates.”
• After searching you will see a number of different resume templates to try out.

• Here you will be able to look through a number of templates for resumes and cover letters that you can download for free and edit in Word.
• You may have to sign in with your Microsoft online account to use these templates. [2] X Research source

• Be sure to look carefully at the detail of your resume and proofread it thoroughly.
• All of the versions of Word from 2003 to 2013 all come with some pre-installed templates for resumes.

• Click on the “Other Documents” tab, and then select “Resume Wizard.”
• Follow the wizard's instructions. The wizard will walk you through the resume creation process step-by-step
• If you do not see this option, it was not installed when you installed Word, and you will need to run the installation program again to install it.

Creating a Resume Without a Template

• Education and qualifications.
• Work and volunteer experience.
• Skills and qualities.
• It should also include your full contact details and state that references are available upon request.

• Most chronological resumes only cover the last 5 to 10 years of your employment history.
• You may wish to include positions earlier than this if they are appropriate to the job you're seeking.
• This is the format most American employers prefer to see resumes in.

• A combination resume might list your key skills at the top before providing a short account of your experiences.
• This type of resume can be helpful for those entering the job market with little work experience, or for those trying to change careers. [6] X Research source

• The CV is commonly used when applying for positions in Europe, and also when applying for positions at colleges and universities worldwide.
• CVs can be thought of as living documents that records all your work and achievements, which will generally grow and develop over time more than a resume. [7] X Trustworthy Source University of North Carolina Writing Center UNC's on-campus and online instructional service that provides assistance to students, faculty, and others during the writing process Go to source

Writing Your Resume

• If your resume extends beyond one page, ensure that your name is in a header on every page.
• Your email address should appropriate for a job application. Use your own name or initials if possible.
• Don’t use something jokey such as "sly-dude," "foxymama," or "smokinhot."

• For example, you might write that your objective is “To contribute to the design of new word processing software.”
• Alternatively it may state the position you hope to attain, such as “A position as in healthcare policy and research.”
• Objectives have become less common, and you may prefer to provide this information in your covering letter . [8] X Research source

• You can include a bullet point or two to provide a little further information on your specialism, if it is appropriate for the position you are applying for.
• If you achieved any honours or awards as part of your studying or training include these here.

• Use bullet points to make sure it is clear and easy to read or scan through for key words relating to the position you are applying.
• You can include volunteer positions if they relate to the job you're seeking or if you have little paid experience. [9] X Research source

• You can title this section as “Other Relevant Skills”, or just “Skills.”
• This could include proficiency in foreign languages, knowledge of particular computer software and programmes, and any other specific skills not previously mentioned. [10] X Research source
• Take care to avoid repeating yourself. You don’t need to say you have “excellent communication skills” more than once.

• Allow reasonable margins around the edges of the page. Word's default settings are usually sufficient for this.
• Left-align your section headings. You can use single-spacing after a heading and before the section content, and double-spacing before a heading.
• Get your resume down to one page if at all possible. You can try adjusting your line spacing in the Paragraph dialog box, but don’t lose your neat formatting trying to get it down to one page.
• Rethink your words and try to express yourself more concisely.

Expert Q&A

• Don't wait until you're looking for work to update your resume. Any time you have a promotion or significant accomplishment, add the new information to your resume. Thanks Helpful 5 Not Helpful 1
• Always tailor your resume to the type of position you're seeking. You may have to add, rearrange, or delete accomplishments or entire sections according to what the position requires. Thanks Helpful 6 Not Helpful 2

• The appearance and format of your resume is a reflection of your competence; be sure it represents you at your best. Thanks Helpful 5 Not Helpful 1
• Be sure that all the statements in your resume are both factually and grammatically correct and that all words are spelled correctly. Thanks Helpful 4 Not Helpful 1

You Might Also Like

• ↑ https://kb.iu.edu/d/agst
• ↑ https://templates.office.com/en-us/Resumes-and-Cover-Letters
• ↑ http://cla.umn.edu/student-services-advising/career-internship-services/job-search-resources/resume-guide/formatting-0
• ↑ http://writingcenter.unc.edu/handouts/curricula-vitae-cvs-versus-resumes/
• ↑ http://www.career.cornell.edu/story/resumes/parts.cfm

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1. Open Word and click File . 2. Click New . 3. Click a resume template. 4. Type your own data into each field. 5. Save your resume as a new file. Did this summary help you? Yes No

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Your Step-by-Step Guide to Making the Perfect Resume (With Examples!)

Your resume is arguably the most valuable piece of paper for your career. But this document can be daunting for many. Maybe you’re not sure how to fit in all your information onto one page. Maybe you’re not sure about the right way to format and write your resume. Maybe you don’t even know what the heck a resume is!

Whatever your concern, we’ll break down everything you need to know about making the perfect resume, from scratch.

What Is a Resume?

What are employers looking for in a resume.

• Pick Your Format
• Start With Your Basic Information
• Add in Your Work Experience
• Consider Including Volunteer Work or Other Experience
• Don’t Forget Your Education
• Top It Off With Some Skills and Interests
• Write a Resume Summary Statement (if Relevant)
• Tailor It to the Job (and the ATS)
• Edit and Refine It

What Are Some Examples of a Good Resume?

A resume is a summary of your career, whether yours is just getting started or has been going on for years. Coming in at around one page in length (two only under specific circumstances), it showcases the jobs you’ve held and currently hold, the responsibilities you’ve taken on, the skills you’ve developed, and the qualities you bring to the table as an employee. Together, those things make it super easy for any hiring manager to see your qualifications and fit for a role.

For all the work you may put into writing one, hiring managers actually spend very little time—mere seconds in many cases—looking at your resume. But despite this sad fact, it’s safe to say that creating a great resume (rather than hastily throwing one together) still matters.

“If you miss the mark, your resume may never be read. Even worse, you might be removed from the applicant pool by a computer before a human even knows you exist,” says Muse career coach Heather Yurovsky , founder of Shatter & Shine. So you want to get it right because, as she explains, isn’t the goal to “spend less time looking for a job and more time in a role you love?”

You might be wondering if you can lean on your LinkedIn profile instead of writing a resume. The answer, sadly, is no. Most hiring managers still expect you to submit a resume, even if they also look at your LinkedIn. Even if you don’t need a resume for a job you’re applying for now, you’re going to need one at some point in your career—they’re not anywhere close to going out of style. So it’s best to always have one at the ready should an opportunity pop up.

And although LinkedIn has plenty of benefits, a resume has one clear advantage: While your LinkedIn is usually a broader picture of your career trajectory, your resume gives you the opportunity to tailor your career story to a specific role or company (more on that later).

Oh, and you’ve probably heard of something called a CV? It’s slightly different from a resume , and usually more common with academics and job seekers outside the U.S.

Hiring managers look for three things on your resume, “What did you do? Why did you do it? And what was the result?” says Muse career coach Martin McGovern , owner of Career Therapy. “If you can answer all three of these questions in...your resume bullet points, you’re going to be on the right track.”

Clear, easy-to-understand language is key. “The truth is that most resumes make no sense. They are stuffed with jargon, they are too technical, and they are filled with redundancies. Try to read a resume that isn’t yours and you will quickly realize that it feels like an alien wrote it,” McGovern adds. Put yourself in the shoes of a recruiter who has no idea how your role works—how can you make your resume accessible to them?

The hiring manager also cares about more than just you and you alone—they care about you in relation to them. “Hiring managers want to see if a candidate matches the requirements” of the role they’re hiring for, Yurovsky explains. “Your resume should paint this picture so the hiring manager not only knows what day-to-day responsibilities you can handle, but why you, above other[s], bring value to their organization.”

How Do You Write a Resume?

Whether you’re someone who’s never written a resume in your life, or you need a nice, thorough refresher on the process of creating one, follow these steps to go from a blank page to a complete—and dare I say beautiful—document.

Related: This Free Worksheet Makes It Easy to Create (or Update) Your Resume

1. Pick Your Format

Before you start typing one single thing, you have to decide what you want the overall resume to look like.

Resume builders can be helpful for this step—they’ll take all your basic information and organize it for you, eliminating some of the legwork. You can also use a pre-made outline, such as one of these free Google Docs templates .

But it’s often safest to start with a clean slate all on your own and eventually upgrade to a more advanced layout. (If you'd still like a place to write all the relevant information before you get started, check out our resume outline .) This allows you to course correct, edit and re-edit, and choose a resume format that best fits your particular situation (after all, not everyone has a career trajectory that’s easy to compartmentalize).

In general, you’re most likely to cover and/or include sections on the following:

• Your work experience
• Your non-work experience, including professional organizations, community involvement, or side projects
• Your education and certifications
• Your skills (specifically hard skills) and interests

So how do you format and organize all of that information?

By far the most common (and safest, if you’re not sure which route to take) option is reverse chronological order . This means you organize your experiences from most recent to least recent. So your work experiences would go above your education, and your current role would go above previous roles you’ve held. This of course has its exceptions—maybe you went back to grad school between jobs, or your most recent role is irrelevant to the job you’re applying for. So the whole page may not be exactly in reverse chronological order depending on your situation. It’s just a guideline.

There’s also something called a functional or skills-based resume . This is used pretty rarely, mainly with career changers and those with limited or complicated work histories. It gets its name because it’s primarily about listing your skills rather than experiences, and showcases them above your work history and education.

You can also opt for a combination resume , which is a mix between a reverse chronological resume and skills-based resume. It highlights your skills at the top, but allows just as much room below to cover your job and school experience.

Use caution when choosing these two formats: “Combo and skills-based [resumes] can be hard to follow, because [they force] the reader to hunt for connections between your skills and experience, and [don’t] provide the full context of your work,” says Muse Career Coach Angela Smith , founder of Loft Consulting. “I’ve also heard a lot of recruiters say that they automatically discount skill-based resumes because they feel the candidate is trying to hide something. I don’t necessarily believe that, but I think it’s important for job-seekers to know that perception is out there.”

2. Start With Your Basic Information

Your contact information should always go at the top of your resume. In this header you’ll want to include anything that could be helpful for a recruiter to get in touch with you. Usually, this means adding in:

• Your full name (preferably the name you use across the web)
• Your phone number
• Your personal email address

You might also choose to include other basic information, such as your LinkedIn or personal website URL, your GitHub (for technical roles), your social media profiles (if relevant to the job), or your address. If you’re looking to move for a job, you may choose to leave out your address or write “open to relocating” to better your chances of getting an interview.

The key is to make this part as clear as possible. If a hiring manager can’t reach you, there’s no point in perfecting the rest of your resume.

3. Add in Your Work Experience

This section will most likely be the bulk of your resume. Even if you’re changing careers, employers still want to see where you’ve worked, what you’ve done, and the impact of that work to get a sense of your background and expertise.

Your “Work Experience” might be one entire category, or you might choose to break it up into “Relevant Experience” and “Additional Experience” to highlight the jobs that are most important for hiring managers to focus on. Either way, you’ll almost always want to have your most recent experience at the top and your older experience down below.

Within your work experience, you’ll want to include each official job title, the company (and possibly its location), and the years you worked there. Below that, you’ll add in two to four bullet points explaining what you did in that job, the skills you built and exercised, the tools you used, and the results of what you did. If you accomplished a lot during your time there, focus on the responsibilities that made the most impact or you’re the most proud of, as well as the ones that best align you with the job you’re applying for (more on that in the following sections). It’s key here to list, if relevant, quantitative as well as qualitative accomplishments.

For example, you might write:

Associate Accountant, Finances and Co., Ann Arbor, MI September 2017 – Present

• Manage billing and invoicing for more than 50 clients, ensuring the deadlines and needs of our enterprise partners, including Big Company and Super Star Org, are met
• Collaborate closely with sales, account management, and project management teams on project setup, maintenance, and invoice management
• Assist in the streamlining of invoicing guidelines and procedures through documentation and the implementation of new software, resulting in an average two-week decrease in total time spent per client

Your resume bullets should be in past tense if you’re referring to past jobs and present tense if you’re talking about your current roles. In addition, your bullets should always start with a strong action verb that best describes what you did. And if you have examples of your work, consider hyperlinking them here as well.

If you have a ton of experience and this category is starting to run long (read: over one page), consider kicking out your oldest jobs unless they’re super relevant to the job you’re applying for, or extra impressive for your field.

Not sure where to start? “It’s helpful to do a brain dump and create a document that has everything and anything you consider as experience or an achievement,” says Yurovsky. From there, she explains, you can start to whittle down what is and isn’t important. And you can refer to this document later if you ever decide to update your resume for a specific role.

Need more specific advice on listing your work experience on your resume? Check out these additional resources:

• When you’ve held multiple jobs at the same company: 2 Jobs, 1 Company: How to Show Multiple Positions on Your Resume
• When you’re not sure what your accomplishments are or how to explain them: Resume Revamp: How to Turn Your Duties Into Accomplishments
• When you want to spruce up a boring or insignificant job: How to Make Your Most Boring Jobs Sound More Interesting on Your Resume
• When you’re considering fudging a job title: The Answer to “Can I Change My Job Title on My Resume to Make It More Accurate?”
• When you’ve had a bunch of short-term gigs: How to List Temporary Jobs on Your Resume

4. Consider Including Volunteer Work or Other Experience

Anything you’ve done that’s not work experience—your side gig, volunteer work, special projects—can be hosted under clearly-labeled sections (“Volunteer Experience” or “Activities,” for example). Depending on how robust your work experience is, these things may be worth including, particularly if they’ve helped you level up your skill set or better align you with your dream job. Plus, they make you look that much more well-rounded, passionate, and hardworking.

If you’re a recent grad, you might also build out a section for on-campus activities, such as clubs, organizations, or leadership experience. This can be a great supplement if you’re lacking in the jobs department. You can frame these just as you would professional jobs—including your title, the organization’s name, and bullets describing what your role was and what you accomplished.

Read More: This Is Exactly How to List Volunteer Work on Your Resume

5. Don’t Forget Your Education

If you’re still in school or just graduated, your education can go at the top of your resume, but for pretty much everyone else, this goes near the bottom. Most people include their school, graduation year (for folks less up to about a decade out of school), major, and degree. Brand-new grads might also write in their GPA, honors and awards, study abroad, thesis, or other notable achievements. But keep this section super simple, as you don’t want it to take up too much space over your work experience.

It’s possible you have unique education experience, such as taking an online course or certification. If you did this specifically as a way to boost yourself within your industry, definitely include it. Again, list everything more or less reverse chronologically—so a grad school degree would go above an undergrad degree, and a more recent relevant online course would go above that.

Learn more about the ins and outs of listing your education on your resume:

• How to (and How Not to) List Education on Your Resume
• How to List Online Courses on Your Resume the Right Way (Because Yes, There Is a Wrong Way)

6. Top It Off With Some Skills and Interests

The skills section of a resume gets a bad rap, but it’s just as important as the rest of the stuff you include. It’s a quick list a recruiter can scan to see if your skill set aligns with what they’re hiring for. And it’s super ATS-friendly (ATS stands for “applicant tracking system,” the robot that in some cases reads your resume before a human does) because it allows you to add in keywords the machine is scanning for.

Usually this section goes at the bottom of your resume, but in special cases—such as a skills-based resume or when someone’s switching fields—you may place it further up.

What exactly do you throw in here? You’ll want to list any hard skills and applications you’re familiar with (Photoshop, SEO, JavaScript, to name a few examples), and, if relevant, your level of expertise. Avoid including soft skills here, like time management or public speaking—save those for your bullet points instead.

Be strategic when filling in your skills. Don’t list things you actually couldn’t do at a high competence level (I’m looking at those of you who say you’re “great” at Excel), and maybe nix skills that are completely irrelevant to the job you want. For example, you may not even need to include Excel if you’re applying for say, a design position, unless it’s listed as a job requirement.

Maybe you’re thinking, I’m a really good volleyball player, but that’s not a “skill,” right? No, it’s not, but it is a hobby. Adding in a hobby section at the bottom of your resume is underrated, and frequently a smart choice. It can be a great conversation starter with a hiring manager, and it can show that you’re a good culture fit—or a culture add—for the company. Also, it’s just a nice way to add in some of your personality. So tack on a bullet point listing out some of your interests, such as hiking, rowing, or crafting (no more than five to seven work-appropriate verbs), and you’re all set here.

7. Write a Resume Summary Statement (if Relevant)

You may have heard of a resume summary statement . They’re not super common, but they can be useful to include near the top of your resume if you’re looking to add clarity or context to your resume. If you’re a career changer, you might find a summary statement helpful in explaining your leap and tying your experience to your new path. Or if you’re a more experienced professional, you can use a summary statement to highlight a theme that brings your career trajectory together.

Overall, you probably won’t need a summary statement if your career is pretty linear and your bullet points do a great job of emphasizing what you have to offer in terms of skills and experience. But if you think it makes sense to include one, “Take the time to think about what the person reading your summary wants to know before you write it,” says McGovern. “Good summaries explain why you do what you do and how it can help. For instance: Merging a background in ABC, I help companies improve XYZ through 123. Summaries shouldn’t be any more complicated than that.”

So, taking McGovern’s example, you might say:

Merging a background in social media marketing and PR with seven years in the consumer tech space, I help companies improve their internal and external communication and brand awareness through data-driven, quality content and strategies that align with the modern trends of the space.

Yurovsky adds that “you don’t want your summary statement to be a dense paragraph with too much information. You want it to be easy to read, concise, and memorable. Almost like a tagline.”

Read More: 3 Resume Summary Examples That’ll Make Writing Your Own Easier

8. Tailor It to the Job (and the ATS)

Once you have your resume written out—you’ve broken down your work experience, tagged on some activities and additional experiences, and listed out your skills—it’s important to go back to the job description (or multiple job descriptions, if you’re applying to several similar jobs) and make sure that what your resume says matches up with the kind of candidate the employers are looking for. In other words, tailor it .

Let’s explain further. You’ll want to begin by tackling the ATS . This means combing the job description to see if individual words and phrases line up. What skills are they asking for, and have you listed them (so long as you actually have them)? What words are they using to describe their ideal hire, and do you use similar language in your resume?

Next, take a bird’s-eye view. If you were the hiring manager for the role, where on your resume would your eyes be drawn to? And what would you be looking for? Whatever you think will be most important for the recruiter, make sure it’s near the top of your resume, or otherwise emphasized.

Finally, dig into the role and responsibilities of the job. Does your resume reflect similar experience? If not, is there a way you can spin it so that it’s clear you’re capable of doing the job (and doing it well)?

These articles can help you if the word “tailoring” makes you start to sweat:

• What It Really Means to “Tailor Your Resume”
• Your Guide to Making Unrelated Experience Look Relevant on Your Resume
• A Cool Trick: How to Spin 1 Resume Bullet 5 Different Ways

9. Edit and Refine It

Please, please don’t just write your resume and shoot it out without giving it a second glance. Hiring managers may not spend hours browsing it, but if there’s one thing that sticks out more than anything else it’s a glaring typo.

The best approach? Write a rough draft, then leave and come back to it later with fresh eyes to give it an edit.

Cover the basics: Is your contact information correct and updated? Are you using the right verb tenses? Does everything look consistent and accurate in terms of spelling and grammar?

Then do some cutting if your resume’s quite long. It’s no longer a hard-and-fast rule that all resumes must be only one page—but consider it a smart guideline for most applicants, especially if you've got less than 10 years work experience. The exception is if you’re very senior or very established in your career; in this scenario, a two-page resume isn’t completely out of the question. Everyone else, read this article for advice on how to cut your resume down.

Formatting-wise, it’s key to consider a couple things. First, what font are you using , and is it legible (for a human and a robot)? When in doubt, go with one of these simple, but sleek, options: Arial, Arial Narrow, Calibri, Cambria, Garamond, or Helvetica.

Second, are you going to save it as a Word document or PDF ? Neither option is wrong, although a PDF helps ensure that your formatting is maintained, no matter what type of computer the hiring manager uses to open the document.

Third, is your resume formatted in a way that it’s skimmable? If it’s feeling crowded or overrun with words, read this: 12 Tiny Changes That Make Your Resume Easy for Recruiters to Skim .

Once you’ve given it a few good looks, it may be worth sending it to a friend or colleague (or even a career coach ) to get a second opinion. Don’t just have them edit it for spelling and grammar—they should dig into your bullets and offer feedback on whether or not your resume is showing you in the best possible light (it’s smart to also send them the job description for something to compare it to).

Here’s the thing: Your resume won’t ever look exactly like someone else’s, nor should it. How you choose to format it, organize your information, and talk about specific experiences depends not just on your career path, but on your field, the job you’re applying for, the company that job is at, and more.

So there isn’t a universal way to do a resume. But there are common themes. To give you some context as to how yours might turn out, here are three examples of different kinds of resumes.

The Most Popular: A Reverse Chronological Resume

As previously mentioned, a reverse chronological resume is preferred by many coaches and HR experts, mainly because it’s super readable. When everything’s in a clear order, it’s easy to skim and even easier to draw lines between experiences.

Who it’s good for: Just about everyone—from students applying to internships all the way up to senior-level executives (with an optional resume summary statement)

Download an Example Chronological Resume for a Software Engineer

The Unorthodox Route: A Functional or Skills-Based Resume

Rather than listing out your experience in reverse chronological order, a functional or skills-based resume has bullet points that reflect how each of your skills is demonstrated by the work you’ve done over the course of your career. At the bottom, you’ll include everything else, such as your education, job history, professional achievements, community involvement, and other technical skills. This is a good option if you have a somewhat all-over-the-place work history and want to tie everything together neatly.

Who it’s good for: Career changers whose work experiences may not appear to be relevant and people with an abundance of temporary jobs or gaps in their work histories.

Download an Example Functional Resume for a Project Manager

The Creative Angle: An Infographic Resume or Resume Website

This resume type is characterized by how it’s formatted visually. You may choose a reverse chronological order or skills-based style to organize your information, but also use graphics, colors, unique fonts, and even multimedia elements to help that information pop. Keep in mind that any creative resume is still likely subject to an ATS—and certain elements may be unreadable by a robot. So consider going this route only if you know a human will be reading your resume (and that said human might enjoy it).

Who it’s good for: People applying to creative roles (designers, editors, writers, marketers, video producers, for example), startups, or fun companies, or to jobs where a creative resume is encouraged, if not required.

Download an Example Infographic Resume for a Designer

Not a designer but want your resume to look just as pretty as this example? Check out these articles:

• 5 Sites to Create an Awesome Infographic Resume (Even if You’re the Least Creative Person Ever)
• How to Build a Resume Website That Will Impress Every Hiring Manager Who Sees It
• 5 Digital Tools That Will Make Your Resume Infinitely More Beautiful

Your resume is a living, breathing document. So while you won’t go through this whole process every time you apply for a job, you should be thinking about all these things as you go to update your resume for your next career step. You might decide later on to switch up the order, or remove or add things, or even get creative and try out a whole new format. If you’re not getting the calls back you expect, you may decide to scrap it and start over —and that’s totally OK.

Regardless of where this piece of paper goes and how it grows, when you give it the care and attention it deserves, you set yourself up for success. And you’ll make it that much more likely that you’ll land an interview and get the chance to prove to the hiring manager—over the phone or in person—what you’ve got to offer.

Windows 10 Tip: How to use LinkedIn and Microsoft Word to help you write your resume

• Elana Pidgeon

Did you know Microsoft Word has a new feature designed to make updating your resume easier than ever?

https://youtu.be/bMYu687ZCk0

It’s called Resume Assistant, and it was created to help Office 365 subscribers craft compelling resumes with personalized insights powered by LinkedIn.

Here’s how to get started:

Simply open your resume in Word, click Review , and then Resume Assistant. (The first time you do this, click  Get started  in the pane).

Type the role you’re interested in, and optionally, an industry – then click  See examples , and Resume Assistant will show you work experience descriptions you can use as inspiration for writing your own description. Resume Assistant can also show you top skills related to the role, as identified by LinkedIn – try filtering the examples by the skills you have.

Resume Assistant also surfaces relevant job opportunities for you directly within Word. Once you spot a job you like, you can go directly to the job opening on LinkedIn to learn more about the opportunity and apply. You can even let recruiters know that you’re open to new opportunities by turning on  Open Candidates .

You don’t need a LinkedIn account to use Resume Assistant, although you can sign in to LinkedIn (or sign up for an account) when you follow a link from Word to the LinkedIn site.

Head over to the official  LinkedIn blog  or visit   Office Support   to learn more, and have a great week!

* Availability: Resume Assistant is now available to Office 365 subscribers on Windows whose Word 2016 desktop display language is set to English, who are located in and whose Windows region is set to one of the following region locations: Australia, Brazil, Canada, China, India, Japan, New Zealand, Singapore, South Africa, and United States. The Region location setting can be found in the Control Panel under Clock, Language, and Region. Resume Assistant can be found in the Review tab of Word.

Windows 10 Tip: 7 pro tips for getting started with Microsoft Edge as your PDF viewer

Windows 10 Tip: Add 3D to your PowerPoint presentation in 5 steps

Windows 10 Tip: Travel easier with the built-in currency converter

How to Make a Resume in 2024 | Beginner's Guide

For most job-seekers, a good resume is what stands between a dream job and Choice D. Get your resume right, and you’ll be getting replies from every other company you apply to.

If your resume game is weak, though, you’ll end up sitting around for weeks, maybe even months, before you even get a single response.

So you’re probably wondering how you can write a resume that gets you an interview straight up.

Well, you’ve come to the right place!

In this guide, we’re going to teach you everything you need to know about how to make a resume, including:

• The 8 Essential Steps to Writing a Resume
• 11+ Exclusive Resume Tips to Up Your Resume Game
• 27+ Real-Life Resume Examples for Different Professions

….and more!

So, let’s dive right in.

How to Make a Resume (The Right Way!)

Before we go into detail about how you should make a resume, here’s a summary of the most important steps and tips to keep in mind:

• Choose a resume format carefully. In 99% of cases, we recommend the reverse-chronological format .
• Add the right contact details. Leave your headshot out and make sure to include your job title , a professional email address, and any relevant links. (E.g.: your LinkedIn profile , online portfolio, personal website, etc.).
• Write an impactful resume summary. Unless you’re an entry-level professional, always go for a resume summary. If you do it right, it’s your chance to get the hiring manager to go through the rest of your resume in detail.
• Pay attention to your work experience section. Take your work experience section from OK-ish to exceptional by tailoring it to the job ad, making your achievements quantifiable, and using action verbs and power words.
• Add the right skills for the job. Keep this section relevant by only including the hard and soft skills that are required for the position.
• Keep your education short and to the point. Your most recent and highest degree is more than enough for a strong education section. You only need to add more details here if you’re a recent graduate with barely any work experience.
• Leverage optional resume sections. Optional sections like languages, hobbies, certifications, independent projects, and others can set you apart from other candidates with similar skills and experience.
• Include a cover letter. That’s right, cover letters matter in 2024, and the best way to supplement your resume is by adding an equally well-crafted cover letter to your job application. To make the most of it, check out our detailed guide on how to write a cover letter .

To get the most out of our tips, you can head over to the resume builder and start building your resume on the go as you read this guide.

New to resume-making? Give our ‘7 Resume Tips’ video a watch before diving into the article!

#1. Pick the Right Resume Format

Before you start filling in the contents of your resume, you have to make sure it’s going to look good. 

After all, the first thing hiring managers notice is what your resume looks like, and then they start reading it. So, this is your best chance to make a great first impression.

Start by choosing the right resume format.

There are three types of resume formats out there:

• Reverse-chronological. This is by far the most popular resume format worldwide and, as such, it’s the best format for most job-seekers.
• Functional. This resume format focuses more on skills than work experience. It’s a good choice if you’re just getting started with your career and have little to no experience in the field.
• Combination. The combination resume format is a great choice for experienced job-seekers with a very diverse skill set. It’s useful if you’re applying for a role that requires expertise in several different fields and you want to show all that in your resume.

So, which one should you go for?

In 99% of cases, you want to stick to the reverse-chronological resume format . It’s the most popular format and what hiring managers expect to see. So, in the rest of this guide, we’re going to focus on teaching you how to make a reverse-chronological resume.

Fix Your Resume’s Layout

With formatting out of the way, let’s talk about your resume’s layout , which determines the overall look of your resume. 

Does it look organized or cluttered? Is it too short or too long? Is it boring and easy to ignore, or is it reader-friendly and attention-grabbing?

Here are some of the best practices you should apply:

• Stick to one page. You should only go for a two-page resume if you have decades of experience and you’re sure the extra space will add significant value. Hiring managers in big companies get hundreds of applications per job opening. They’re not going to spend their valuable time reading your life story!
• Add clear section headings. Pick a heading and use it for all the section headers so the hiring manager can easily navigate through your resume.
• Adjust the margins. Without the right amount of white space, your resume will end up looking overcrowded with information. Set your margins to one inch on all sides so your text fits just right on the page.
• Choose a professional font. We’d recommend sticking to a font that’s professional but not overused. For example, Ubuntu, Roboto, or Overpass. Avoid Times New Roman, and never use Comic Sans.
• Set the correct font size. As a rule of thumb, go for 11-12 pt for normal text and 14-16 pt for section titles.
• Use a PDF file. Always save your resume as a PDF file, unless the employer specifically requests otherwise. Word files are popular, but there’s a good chance they’ll mess up your resume’s formatting.

Another thing you need to consider in terms of your resume’s layout is whether you’re going for a traditional-looking resume template or something a bit more modern :

If you’re pursuing a career in a more traditional industry, like law , banking , or finance , you might want to stick to the first.

But if you’re applying to a tech company where imagination and innovation are valued, you can pick a more creative resume template .

Want to Save Time? Use a (Free) Resume Template

Anyone who’s ever tried creating a resume from scratch knows how boring the formatting can be.

Before you can even start filling in the contents, you need to tweak the margins, adjust font sizes, and make sure everything fits into one page while still looking good.

What if you could skip past all that and still create a compelling resume?

Try one of our free resume templates . They’re pre-formatted, so all you have to do is fill in the contents.

They’re also created in collaboration with recruiters from around the globe, ensuring that the templates are visually appealing and ATS-friendly!

See for yourself how one of our templates compares to a resume created in a standard text editor:

#2. Add Your Contact Information

Now that we’ve got all the formatting out of the way, let’s get into what your resume is all about— the information you put on it .

The first thing you want to do when filling out the contents of your resume is to add your contact information .

This section is pretty straightforward but crucial. Your contact details belong at the top of your resume in a designated resume header , so the hiring manager can easily find them.

Even if everything else about your resume is perfect, that all flops if you misspell your email address or have a typo in your phone number. If the hiring manager can’t contact you, it’s a missed opportunity.

So, double-check, and even triple-check your contact information section and make sure everything is factually correct and up-to-date.

Must-Have Information

• Full name. Your first and last name should stand out at the top of your resume.
• Email address. Stick to an address that’s professional and easy to spell, like a combination of your first and last name. (E.g.: [email protected])
• Phone number. Add a reliable number where the hiring manager can easily reach you.
• Location. Add your city and state/country. If you plan to relocate for the job or want a remote position, specify it on your resume.

Optional Information

• Job title. Add your professional title underneath. Write it down word for word, whether it’s “Digital Marketing Specialist” or “Junior Data Scientist.” Just don’t make up job titles like “Marketing Wizzard” or “Data Manipulator.” They’re not quirky; they’re just unprofessional. 
• LinkedIn profile . We recommend that you include a link to your updated LinkedIn profile since over 77% of hiring managers use the platform when evaluating a candidate. 
• Relevant links. Include links to personal websites or any social media profiles that are relevant to your field. For example, a developer could include a Github profile, while a graphic designer could link their Behance or Driblle account, and so on.
• Date of birth. Unless this is specifically required in the job ad, the hiring manager doesn’t need to know how old you are. It’s not important for their decision-making, and at worst, it might lead to age-based discrimination.
• Unprofessional email address. Your quirky, old high school email address doesn’t belong on your resume. Instead of [email protected] , go for a [email protected] type of address.
• Headshot. (USA, UK or Ireland) Depending on the country where you’re applying, it might even be illegal to include a picture of yourself on your resume . While it’s the norm to include a picture in most of Europe and Asia, always check the regulations for each specific country or industry you’re applying to.

All clear? Good! Now, let’s look at what a great example of a resume's contact information section looks like:

#3. Write a Resume Headline (Summary or Objective)

It's no secret that recruiters spend an average of less than seven seconds on a resume .

When you receive hundreds, if not thousands, of applications daily, it's physically impossible to spend too much time on each.

So, what the hiring managers do to go through resumes more effectively is to skim through each resume and read it in depth only if it piques their interest.

This is where the resume headline comes in.

Placed right next to (or underneath) your contact information, this brief paragraph is the first thing the hiring manager is going to read on your resume.

Now, depending on how far along in your career you are, your resume headline can be either a resume summary or a resume objective.

So, how do you choose between a resume summary and a resume objective? Here’s all you need to know:

Resume Summary

A resume summary, as the name suggests, is a two to three-sentence summary of your career so far. If done right, it shows that you’re a qualified candidate at a glance and gets the hiring manager to give you a chance.

Here’s what your resume summary should include:

• Your job title and years of experience.
• A couple of your greatest professional achievements or core responsibilities.
• Your most relevant skills for the job.

Here’s an example of a well-written resume summary: 

Experienced Java Developer with 5 years of experience in building scalable and efficient applications. Contributed to a major project that enhanced application performance by 25%. Strong background in Spring Framework and microservices. Aiming to apply robust coding skills to develop innovative software solutions at XYZ Tech Solutions.

Unless you’re a recent graduate or amid a career change, we recommend you stick to a resume summary. Otherwise, a resume objective might be a better option for you.

Resume Objective

A resume objective is supposed to express your professional goals and aspirations, academic background, and any relevant skills you may have for the job.

It communicates your motivation for getting into a new field, so it’s the go-to headline for recent graduates and those going through a career change. As with a resume summary, a resume objective should be brief—around two to four sentences long.

So, here’s what it would look like if you’re a student:

Hard-working recent graduate with a B.A. in Graphic Design from New York State University seeking new opportunities. 3+ years of practical experience working with Adobe Illustrator and Photoshop, creating illustrations and UX/UI design projects. Looking to grow as a designer and perfect my art at XYZ Design Studio.

Or, on the other hand, if you’re going through a career change, it might look more like this:

IT project manager with 5+ years of experience in software development. Managed a team of developers to create products for several industries, such as FinTech and HR tech. Looking to leverage my experience in managing outsourced products as a Product Owner at Company XYZ.

#4. Prioritize Your Work Experience

The most important part of your resume is your work experience.

This is where you get to sell yourself and show off your previous accomplishments and responsibilities.

If you manage to master this section, you’ll know most of what’s there to know about how to make a resume.

There are plenty of good practices for writing your work experience . But before we dive into all the nits and grits, let's start with the basics.

The standard format for each work experience entry is as follows:

• Job title/position. Your job title goes on top of each work experience entry. When the hiring manager looks at your resume, you want them to know, at a glance, that you have relevant work experience for the job.
• Company name/location/description. Mention the name of the employer and the general location, such as the city and state/country where you worked. In some cases, you may also want to briefly describe the company, like when the organization isn’t particularly well-known.
• Dates employed. Add the approximate timeframe of your employment at each company. You don’t need to give exact dates since the standard format for this is mm/yyyy.
• Achievements and responsibilities. This is the core of each work experience entry. Depending on your field, you want to list either your achievements or responsibilities. List them in bullet points instead of paragraphs, so they’ll be easier to read.

Here’s a real-life example:

Your work experience entries should always be listed in reverse chronological order , starting with your most recent job and working your way back into the past.

Now that you know how to list your experience, we’re going to show you how to write about it in a way that makes you stand out from the competition, starting with: 

Are you a student with no work experience? We’ve got you covered. Check out our guide to writing a resume with no experience here.

Focus on Achievements Whenever Possible

One of the most common resume mistakes is only listing responsibilities in your work experience section.

Here’s the thing—in most cases, the hiring manager knows exactly what your job responsibilities are.

For example, if you’re a sales manager, your responsibilities would be:

• Reach out to potential clients over the phone or email.
• Maintain relationships with existing company clients and upsell relevant products.
• Tracking and reporting on leads in CRM.

Coincidentally, this is also the same list of responsibilities for every sales manager out there. So, 90% of all other resumes probably mention the same thing.

To stand out from the competition, you want to focus on writing achievements in your resume instead. These can be how you helped your previous company grow, reach quarterly quotas, and so on.

Let’s compare how responsibilities hold up next to achievements for the same job:

• Exceeded sales team KPIs by 30%+ for 3 months straight.
• Generated over $24,000 in sales in 1 month.
• Generated leads through cold-calling
• Managed existing company clients

Keep in mind, though, that in some fields, there just aren’t that many achievements you can mention. Let’s say you’re a warehouse worker .

Your day-to-day responsibilities probably include:

• Loading, unloading, and setting up equipment daily.
• Packaging finished products and getting them ready for shipping.
• Assisting in opening and closing the warehouse.

In fields like this, it’s pretty hard to distinguish yourself through achievements, so it’s okay to stick to responsibilities instead. You can still make them shine by following the rest of our advice about listing your work experience.

Keep in mind, though, that in some fields, there aren’t that many achievements you can mention. Let’s say you work in a warehouse. Your day-to-day responsibilities probably involve:

• Loading, unloading and setting up equipment on a daily basis.
• Package finished product and get it ready for shipping.
• Assist in opening and closing the warehouse.

In such fields, it’s pretty hard to distinguish yourself, so it’s totally OK to stick to responsibilities instead.

Tailor Your Resume to the Job

Tailoring is what sets an amazing resume apart from an okay one.

Hiring managers don’t need to know about every single job you’ve ever worked at or every single skill that you have.

They only want to know about your jobs, experiences, or skills that are relevant to the role you’re applying for.

For example, if you’re applying for a job doing Google Ads, you don’t need to talk about your SEO internship from eight years ago.

By focusing your resume on whatever is important for the specific role, you’re a lot more likely to stand out and catch the hiring manager’s attention.

Let’s take a look at an example of a job ad:

As you can see, we’ve highlighted the most important requirements.

To tailor your resume accordingly, you just need to mention how you meet each of these requirements in your resume.

You can highlight your relevant achievements and qualifications in different parts of your resume, such as:

• In your resume summary, where you should recap your years of experience.
• Throughout your work experience section, where you should list achievements and responsibilities that reflect your social media marketing experience.
• In your education section, where you can let the hiring manager know you have the degree that they’re looking for.

Include the Right Amount of Work Experience

If you’ve got over a decade’s worth of work experience, you’re probably wondering whether all of it belongs on your resume. In most cases, you’d end up writing a novel if you listed everything you’ve ever done, and that’s not how long a resume should be .

If you’re new to the job market, on the other hand, you probably don’t have any experience, and you’re wondering what you could even add to this section.

So, here’s how much information your resume should include, depending on your level of experience:

• No experience. If you’re looking for your first job , you won’t have any work experience to fill this section with. So, you can either keep it empty and focus on all the other sections or fill it up with any experience gained in student organizations, extracurricular activities, volunteering, and other projects.
• Entry-level. List all your work experience so far. While some of it won’t be relevant, it can still show the hiring manager that you do have some actual work experience.
• Mid-level. Only mention relevant work experience to the position you’re applying for. There’s no need to waste space on jobs that aren’t related to what you’re after.
• Senior-level. List up to 15 years of relevant work experience, tops. If your most recent experience is as a marketing executive , the hiring manager doesn’t care how you started your career as a junior marketing specialist 23 years ago.

Consider Applicant Tracking System (ATS) Software

Did you know that over 70% of resumes don’t even make it to the hiring manager ?

Most companies these days use ATS to evaluate hundreds of resumes instantaneously and automatically filter out the ones that don’t meet their criteria.

For example, if a resume doesn’t mention a specific skill or isn’t formatted correctly, the ATS will automatically reject it.

Fortunately, there are some easy ways to make an ATS-friendly resume .

Here are a couple of tips to help you get past those pesky robots:

• Stick to one page. Sometimes employers set a limit on how long a resume should be. This means that if your resume is longer than one page, it might get automatically disqualified.
• Incorporate keywords. Tailoring your resume to the job helps a ton with beating the ATS. Just carefully read the job description to find hints for what the ATS will be looking for. Then, whenever you find keywords related to your responsibilities and achievements, make sure to include them in your work experience section.
• Use an active voice. Passive voice is too vague and unclear, so make sure to use active voice as much as possible when describing your previous jobs. (E.g.: “Managed a team of ten people,” instead of “ A team of ten people was managed by me.” )
• Leverage powerful action words. Instead of starting each of your sentences with “was responsible for," make your work experience impactful by using words that can grab attention. Saying that you “spearheaded” or “facilitated” something sounds a lot more impressive than “helped.”

Want to make sure your resume formatting passes the ATS test? Choose one of our tried and tested ATS-friendly resume templates , and you’ll be good to go! 

#5. List Your Education

The next section on your resume is dedicated to your academic qualifications. Let’s start with the basics!

Here’s how you should format the education section on your resume :

• Program Name. Your major and degree type should be listed. (E.g.: “B.A. in Business Administration” )
• University Name. Add the name of the institution. (E.g.: “New York State University” )
• Dates Attended. Use a mm/yyyy format for the dates you attended. (E.g.: “08/2008 - 06/2012” )
• Location. If your university is less well-known, you can also add the location. (E.g.: “Stockholm, Sweden” )
• GPA. Use the appropriate grading system for the country you’re applying to work in. (E.g.: In the USA, it would be “3.9 GPA” )
• Honors. Add any honors and distinctions you’ve been given. (E.g.: Cum Laude, Magna Cum Laude, Summa Cum Laude )
• Achievements. You can mention interesting papers you’ve written, projects you’ve done, or relevant coursework you’ve excelled in.
• Minor. “Minor in Psychology”

Pretty simple, right? Now let’s see what an education section looks like in practice:

This example includes all the necessary information, plus an eye-catching award and relevant classes this candidate has taken.

Resume Education Tips

Now that you know how to list your education on your resume, let’s take this section to the next level.

Just follow these expert tips:

• If you’re making a resume as a student and don’t have any work experience yet, you can list your education section at the beginning of the page instead of work experience.
• You can add your expected graduation date if you’re still pursuing your degree.
• If you already have relevant work experience, just keep this section short and sweet. Recent graduates can expand on their education more and add optional information like projects, classes, academic achievements, etc.
• Always list your degrees in reverse chronological order, starting with your highest degree on top. Your highest and most recent degree is usually enough, so if you have a Master’s degree that’s relevant to the job, there’s no need to mention your earlier degrees.
• Don’t add your high school degree to your resume if you already have a university degree. It doesn’t have as much weight, and you can use the space for something else.
• Only mention your GPA if you had an impressive academic career. Anything below a 3.5 GPA doesn’t need to be on your resume.

Are you in the process of applying for college? Check out our guide to writing a college application resume to wow that admissions officer!

#6. Emphasize Your Know-How in the Skills Section

After your work experience, your skills are the first thing the hiring manager is going to look for. In fact, together, work experience and skills make up 90% of the hiring decision .

So, this is the place where you want to mention all the know-how that makes you the perfect candidate for the job.

There are two types of skills you can include when writing your resume:

• Hard Skills. These are measurable abilities. What you can list here can be anything from coding in Python to knowing how to cook Thai cuisine.
• Soft Skills. Also known as personal skills, these are a mix of communication skills , personal traits, career attributes, and more. They can include leadership, critical thinking, and time management , just to name a few.

Your resume should always cover both hard skills and soft skills . Here’s an example in action:

Now, let’s discuss how you should list your most important skills on your resume.

There are a few essential steps you need to follow:

Always List Hard and Soft Skills Separately

Your resume should be easy and neat to navigate. The hiring manager shouldn’t have to waste time looking for a specific skill because you didn’t separate it into the appropriate subsection.

So, just create separate categories for your hard and soft skills.

Depending on your field, you could customize the name of your “hard skills” subsection to something like “technical skills," “marketing skills," or something else related to your field.

Let’s look at an example of what skills look like on a project manager’s resume :

Methodologies & Tools

• Agile Methodology
• SCRUM Framework
• Waterfall Project Management
• Microsoft Project
• Critical Path Method (CPM)
• Earned Value Management (EVM)
• Risk Management

Soft Skills

• Team Management
• Conflict Resolution
• Negotiation

Tailor Your Skills to the Job

You might have some awesome skills, but the hiring manager only needs to know about the ones that are relevant to the job.

For example, if you’re applying for a job as an accountant, your gourmet chef skills shouldn’t be on your resume.

Look at the job ad and list at least two to three essential skills you have that are required for the role. Remember—there’s no need to list every skill you have here; just keep it relevant.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree or higher in Graphic Design or a related field.
• Tech-savvy, with some background in CMS systems such as WordPress.
• Thrives in a stressful environment and juggles multiple tasks and deadlines.
• Strong organizational and time management skills.
• Excellent communication skills.
• Self-reliant, with the ability to manage their own work.
• A can-do attitude and an outside-the-box thinker.
• Proficient in Adobe Photoshop, InDesign, Illustrator, Keynote, and Pages.
• Basic understanding of Office software such as Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Outlook.

So, the must-have hard skills here are Photoshop, InDesign, Illustrator, Keynote, and Pages. Other good computer skills to have are WordPress or similar CMS systems.

While you can also mention Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Outlook, it’s pretty much assumed that you know how to use them since they’re required for most office jobs.

List Hard Skills with Experience Levels

For each hard skill you list on your resume, you should also mention your proficiency level. This tells employers what they can expect from you and how much training you might need.

• Beginner. You have some experience with the skill, whether it’s from some entry-level practice or classroom education.
• Intermediate. You’ve used the skill in a work environment with good understanding.
• Advanced. You’re the go-to person for this skill in your office. You can coach other employees, and you understand the skill at a high level.
• Expert. You’ve applied this skill to more than a handful of different projects and organizations. You’re the go-to person for advice about the skill, not just in your office but even amongst some of the best professionals in your field.

Just make sure to never lie about your actual skill level. Even if you get the job, once you need those skills you exaggerated, it will be pretty awkward for both you and your employer.

Include Transferable Skills

These are the types of skills that are useful for almost any job out there.

Transferable skills can be both soft skills (e.g.: teamwork, creativity, problem-solving skills, and others) and hard skills (MS Office Suite, HTML, writing, etc.)

Whatever job you’re applying to, chances are you have transferable skills from your experience that can come in handy one way or another. So, feel free to include them, even if they’re not specifically required for the position.

Not sure which skills to mention on your resume for your specific field? Check out our list of 101+ essential skills for inspiration!

#7. Leverage Optional Resume Sections

The sections we’ve covered so far are must-haves for any resume. They’re the bread-and-butter for any job application, and if you get them right, you’ll land any job you apply to.

But if you have some leftover space, there are a few optional sections you can choose from to give your resume a boost!

Are you bi-lingual? Or even better  – multi-lingual? You should always mention that on your resume!

Even if the position doesn’t require you to know a specific language, it can still come in handy at some point. At the end of the day, it’s always better to know more languages than less.

To list languages in your resume , just write them down and assign them the appropriate level:

• Intermediate

You can also use the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFRL) or the American Council on the Teaching of Foreign Languages (ACTFL) proficiency scales.

As a given, you should never lie about your language skills. You never know—your interviewer might turn out to be fluent in the language or even be a native speaker!

Hobbies and Interests

If you want to spice up your resume, hobbies and interests could be just what you need.

While this section isn’t a game-changer, it can help the hiring manager see who you are as an individual.

For example, if you listed “teamwork” as one of your skills, hobbies like team sports can back up your claim.

And who knows? Maybe you and your interviewer have some hobbies or interests in common!

Volunteering Experience

If you’re the type of person who devotes their free time to helping others while expecting nothing in return, chances are that you’re the type of employee who’s in it for more than just the money. 

Seeing volunteer experience on your resume tells hiring managers that you’re a loyal employee who’s after something meaningful.

Several studies show that listing your volunteer experience can boost your chances of getting hired, especially if you have little to no work experience.

Certifications

Hiring managers love candidates who invest in themselves, and that’s exactly what they see when you list certifications on your resume .

If you value continuous learning and strive to expand your skill set, that’s always a plus.

Certifications can also show employers how much expertise you have.

For example, if you’re a Microsoft Cloud Engineer and you specialize in Microsoft Technologies, you should definitely include all essential certifications on your resume, such as the Azure Solutions Architect Expert one.

Awards and Recognitions

There’s no harm in showing off a little on your resume. After all, you want to be a candidate that shines above the rest.

So, if you’ve received any awards or recognitions that make you stand out in your field, make sure to add them.

For example, if you’ve been recognized for your contributions to data science or received a hard-to-come-by scholarship , mention it in your resume. Just keep your entries here relevant to the field you’re applying to.

Publications

Whether you’re a freelance writer or a distinguished academic, publications are always impressive.

If you have any published works (online or in an academic journal), you can add them to your resume. Just make sure to include a link so the hiring manager knows where to check your work!

Are you looking for a career in academia? Check out our guide to writing the perfect academic CV to get started!

Working on side projects can show off your passion for your field. Whether they’re university class projects or part-time entrepreneurial endeavors, they’re relevant.

For example, if you worked on a mock software product as part of a university competition, it shows you went through every step of product creation, from ideation to creating a marketing strategy.

This project also shows off your organizational skills , and if you mention it in your resume, you stand a better chance of landing the job you had your sights set on.

But projects can also be personal, not academic. For example, you might manage an Etsy store where you sell hand-made arts and crafts to customers online. This is a great opportunity to highlight your creativity, management, and customer service skills .

Overall, hiring managers love employees who do cool work in their free time, so projects are always a great section to add to your resume.

Looking to kickstart your career? Check out our guide on how to get an internship for useful tips and real-life examples!

Extracurricular Activities

Every college freshman knows that extracurricular experience can make a difference in their application.

Especially if you don’t have a lot of experience outside of school, extracurricular activities are a great way to show potential employers your skills and give them insight into you as a person. Different clubs and after-school projects can help you gain real-life skills and considerably increase your chances of landing your first job after college.

For example, joining a student government organization can hone your leadership skills and teach you how to work as part of a team.

For example, if you’re part of a student government or public speaking club, these activities can help you hone your leadership and presentation skills.

11+ Expert Resume Tips

You’ve got the gist of how to make a resume. Now, it’s time to make it really stand out from the crowd!

Follow these exclusive resume tips to take your resume game to the next level:

• Match the professional title underneath your name to the job title of the position you’re applying for. Hiring managers often hire for several roles at once, so giving them this cue about what role you’re after helps things go smoother.
• Mention any promotions from your previous jobs. Use the work experience entries for them to focus on the achievements that helped you earn them.
• Describe your achievements using Laszlo Bock’s formula : accomplished X as measured by Y by doing Z . This way, your work experience can go the extra mile and show the hiring manager what you can bring to the table.
• Always list your achievements and responsibilities in concise bullet points. This makes your resume more reader-friendly, and it’s more likely that the hiring manager will see your impressive achievements at a glance.
• Don’t use personal pronouns like “I” or “me,” and don’t refer to yourself by name. Stick to a slightly altered third person, like “managed data integrity at XYZ Inc.” instead of “he managed data integrity at XYZ Inc.”
• Name your resume sections correctly, or it might get rejected by the ATS. Swapping out quirky names like “career history” or “expertise” for “work experience” and "skills" makes it easier for the hiring manager to find what they’re looking for, too.
• Prioritize important keywords instead of adding all of them. Make sure the relevant skills, qualifications, and experiences you add all make sense in context, too. Your goal is to get past the ATS and impress the hiring manager.
• Focus on transferable skills if you don’t have a lot of relevant work experience. Any extracurricular activities or personal projects can help you stand out here.
• Add a strategic pop of color to headings, bullet points, or key elements you want to highlight. It can help your resume stand out, but don’t overdo it—you want the information to be more impressive than the color palette.
• Don’t include the line “references available upon request.” Hiring managers already know they can request a list of references from you, so there’s no need to waste valuable space on it.
• Make sure your resume is optimized for mobile viewing. Most hiring managers use their mobile phones as often as desktop computers, so save your resume to a PDF file and make sure your formatting stays intact across any device.
• Rename the resume file you plan to send so it includes your name and the name of the position you’re applying for. It’s a small detail that can turn into a crucial mistake if you forget it.
• Read your resume out loud when you’re done. This is a great way to catch awkward phrases or spelling mistakes you might have missed otherwise.
• Use a tool like DocSend to track your resume. You’ll get a notification any time someone opens your resume, and you can see how long they spend reading it.

FREE Resume Checklist

Are you already done with your resume? Let’s see how it holds up!

Go through our checklist for perfecting your resume and see where you stand!

If you missed some points, just go through your resume one more time and perfect it.

And if you ☑’d everything—congrats! You’ve learned all there is to know about writing a resume, and you’re good to go with your job search.

Need to write a CV instead of a resume? Check out our step-by-step guide on how to write a CV with dozens of examples!

9 Resume Templates for Different Industries

Looking to create an effective resume without dealing with the formatting hassle? Just choose one of the templates below.

#1. Traditional Resume Template

Good for traditional industries like finance, banking, law, and manufacturing.

#2. Modern Resume Template

Good for both contemporary and forward-looking industries, including entrepreneurship, medical technology, and engineering.

#3. Creative Resume Template

Good for creative industries, including entertainment, design, and architecture. 

#4. Minimalistic Resume Template

Good for experienced professionals in basically any industry who want to let their achievements do the talking. 

#5. IT Resume Template

Good for any IT-related profession like software development, cyber security, and DevOps engineering.

#6. Tech Resume Template

Good for the tech industry and everything it encompasses.

#7. College Resume Template

Good for college students and recent graduates alike.

#8. General Resume Template

Good for multiple industries, including HR, education, and customer service.

#9. Executive Resume Template

Good for senior professionals across different industries, including hospitality, marketing, and logistics.

17+ Resumes for Different Jobs

Knowing how to write a resume is one thing, but making a resume that stands out is something entirely different. Without inspiration, even top career experts might stumble on a roadblock or two.

Check out the following effective resume examples for specific jobs to get a better sense of what a good resume looks like:

#1. Nurse Practitioner Resume Example

Check out our full guide to writing a nurse resume here.

#2. Data Scientist Resume Example

Check out our full guide to writing a data scientist resume here.

#3. Business Analyst Resume Example

Check out our full guide to writing a business analyst resume here.

#4. Digital Marketing Resume Example

Check out our full guide to writing a digital marketing resume here.

#5. Software Engineer Resume Example

Check out our full guide to writing a software engineer resume here.

#6. Construction Project Manager Resume Example

Check out our full guide to writing a construction project manager resume here.

#7. Customer Service Resume Example

Check out our full guide to writing a customer service resume here.

#8. High School Resume Example

Check out our full guide to writing a high school resume here.

#9. Student Resume Example

Check out our full guide to writing a student resume here.

#10. Server Resume Example

Check out our full guide to writing a server resume here.

#11. Actor Resume Example

Check out our full guide to writing an actor resume here.

#12. Web Developer Resume Example

Check out our full guide to writing a web developer resume here.

#13. Engineering Resume Example

Check out our full guide to writing an engineering resume here.

#14. Computer Science Resume Example

Check out our full guide to writing a computer science resume here.

#15. Architect Resume Example 

Check out our full guide to writing a data analyst resume here.

#17. Remote Job Resume Example

Check out our full guide to writing a remote job resume here.

#18. Sales Associate Resume Example

Check out our full guide to writing a sales associate resume here.

#19. Receptionist Resume Example

Check out our full guide to writing a receptionist resume here.

Want to see more examples? Check out our compilation of 80+ resume examples for different fields .

• Administrative Assistant Resume
• Bartender Resume
• DevOps Engineer Resume
• Executive Assistant Resume
• Flight Attendant Resume
• Graphic Designer Resume
• Paralegal Resume
• Pharmacist Resume
• Recruiter Resume
• Supervisor Resume

Next Steps After Your Resume

Now that we’ve covered everything you need to know about how to make a resume, it’s time to talk about the rest of your job application.

After all, your resume is only the first step in your job search. To land the job you deserve, you also need to write a captivating cover letter and ace that upcoming interview. Here’s how:

#1. How to Write a Convincing Cover Letter

The companion piece to every resume is the cover letter.

Most job-seekers flinch when they hear that they have to write a cover letter. What do you even mention in a cover letter, anyway? If you were good at writing cover letters, you’d be applying for a job as a writer !

In reality, though, writing a cover letter is very simple once you know its purpose.

Think of your cover letter as a direct message to the hiring manager. It’s your chance to briefly explain why you’re such an awesome fit for the position. And with a few cover letter tips to point you in the right direction, you’ll write the perfect cover letter for your job application.

Just follow this structure:

• Add the contact details. Include the same contact information as on your resume, plus additional contact details for the hiring manager, including their name, job title, the company’s name, and location.
• Introduce yourself. Start your cover letter by mentioning who you are, what your work experience is, and why you’re interested in the position. Mention a standout achievement or two, relevant skills, and what you’d like to do for the company you’re applying for.
• Explain why you’d excel at the job. Find the requirements in the job ad that you meet, and elaborate on how you fulfill the most important ones. Research the company so you know what you like about it, and mention it in your cover letter. Make sure to convey your enthusiasm for the job and confidence that you’ll be a great fit for their team.
• Wrap it up politely. Conclude your cover letter by recapping your key selling points and thanking the hiring manager for their time. Then add a call to action, such as “Please don’t hesitate to reach out to me at the provided phone number so that we can discuss my application in greater detail.” Then, add a closing line and follow it with your full name.

Sounds easy, right? Here’s a real-life example to drive the point home:

Do you need more help perfecting your cover letter? Learn what the most common cover letter mistakes are and check out cover letter examples for all professions here.

#2. How to Ace Your Next Interview

Once you’ve perfected both your resume and cover letter, there’s only one thing left.

It’s time for the final step—the dreaded job interview.

Whether you’re an extrovert or an introvert, you probably hate the interviewing process. No matter how experienced you are, it can be nerve-wracking. Sitting there while someone’s prodding into your past experiences and judging you isn’t fun.

But did you know that most interviewers ask the same questions?

That’s right—all you have to do is learn how to answer some of the most common interview questions, and you’ll be an interview away from landing your dream job!

Just check out our complete guide to the 35+ Job Interview Questions and Answers and learn how to ace your next interview.

FAQs on How to Make a Resume

Do you still have some questions about making a resume? Check out the answers to the most frequently asked questions below!

#1. What does a good resume look like in 2024?

For your resume to look good in 2024, make sure it’s organized and clean and isn’t longer than one page.

Be sure to include information that adds value to your application—leave out the focus on your relevant work experience and skills that you can back up, and list as many achievements as possible. 

If you’re using a resume template, choose one based on your industry. Conservative industries like law, banking, and business require more traditional resume templates. But if you’re going for an industry like design, architecture, or marketing, you can go for a creative resume template . 

Remote work is also big in 2024, so if that’s what you’re after, tailor your resume to match the job you want.

#2. How do you make a resume in Word?

The best way to create a resume in Word is to use a pre-designed Microsoft Word template. To access them, you should: 

• Open MS Word
• Click “file” from the menu bar 
• Select “new”
• Type “resume templates” in the search bar 

That said, Word resume templates are generic, hard to personalize, and overall not very stylish.

Want a resume that looks good and is extremely easy to make? Check out resume templates to get started!

#3. How do I write a resume for my first job?

If you’re writing your first-ever resume for an entry-level position, the hiring manager won’t expect you to have any work experience.

However, you can make up for your lack of experience with your skills and academic achievements.

For example, you can take advantage of extracurricular activities, internships, volunteering experiences, and other non-professional experiences. You can use them to highlight the skills you’ve gained and what you’ve achieved so far.

So, your first job resume should have a resume objective, emphasize your education, and replace your work experience with any internships, volunteering, independent projects, or other experiences.

#4. How to make a resume on Google Docs?

You can make a resume on Google Docs by choosing one of their templates and filling it in on the go.

All you have to do is go to your Google Drive’s template gallery, choose your preferred template, fill in your information, and your Google Docs resume is ready to go! 

That said, Google Docs templates aren’t the most user-friendly choice. You don’t have much flexibility with the layout and formatting isn’t that easy. For example, you tweak a section to the slightest, and the whole resume becomes a mess.

If you want an easier option, check out our resume builder !

#5. What kind of resume do employers prefer?

Typically, employers prefer one-page-long resumes that follow the reverse chronological format. 

Hiring managers receive hundreds of resumes every day, so they don't have the time to read three-page resumes. Try one of our one-page resume templates so you don’t go over the recommended resume length.

Meanwhile, the reverse-chronological format is the most popular because it draws attention to your most recent jobs and professional achievements, which is the #1 most important thing hiring managers look at when evaluating a resume.

#6. How many jobs should you put on your resume? 

You should only include relevant job positions on your resume.

This means that your work experience section should be tailored to the job you are applying for. If you’ve worked five different jobs and they can all add value to your current application, then you should include all five. 

If, on the other hand, you’re applying for, say, a customer service position and some of your past jobs don’t have anything to do with customer service, you should skip them.

#7. Should I put my address on my resume? 

You can put your location (city, state, or country) on your resume, but you don’t need to put your entire physical address.

Putting a physical address on a resume was the norm back when companies would contact you via mail. In today’s world, everyone communicates via email, which is why adding a correct and professional email address to your contact information section is far more important than putting your physical address. 

So, just include your location or-–if you’re a remote worker—specify you prefer to work remotely by writing “working remotely from [location].”

#8. What information should I leave out of my resume?

As a general rule, you shouldn’t include your birthday or your headshot on your resume. This norm varies from country to country but it applies to the USA, Canada, and UK.

If you have plenty of achievements to list under your work experience, then you can leave your basic work responsibilities out of your resume. 

In your education section, you should only include your highest and most recent degree. So, if you hold a Ph.D., you can list that and your Master’s degree and leave your Bachelor’s degree and high school diploma out.

Finally, leave out any skills that aren’t relevant to the job you’re applying for.

#9. Is a resume a CV?

Depending on where you are, a CV (Curriculum Vitae) and a resume might be completely different things.

In most of the world, though, including Europe and Asia, they are used interchangeably for the same document. Both CVs and resumes are one to two pages long, and list skills and experiences relevant to the position you’re applying for.

Sometimes more detailed resumes that go over one page are referred to as CVs. These are typically only used by senior professionals, executives, CEOs, etc.

In the USA, however, a CV is a completely different document. Typically, CVs are detailed and comprehensive documents that highlight your entire academic and professional history. They’re often used for academic, scientific, or research positions, which is why this type of CV can also be referred to as an academic CV.

You can create your CV using one of our CV templates !

#10. Should I write my own resume?

Yes, you should always write your own resume.

Your resume is your opportunity to show the hiring manager your communication, writing, and presentation skills . Employers also evaluate you based on how effectively you can convey information about yourself, and there’s no one that can represent you better than yourself.

Writing your own resume lets you introduce yourself authentically. You have the best understanding of your skills and experiences, and you can personalize them to make your resume stand out.

And, as a bonus, the experience of writing your resume yourself can be reflective and insightful, so it might help you understand your professional journey and career goals better.

#11. Can a resume be two pages?

Generally, we strongly recommend that your resume stick to one page.

Hiring managers go through hundreds of resumes every day, and keeping your resume to one page increases the odds that they’ll see your qualifications faster.

In some cases, like when you have a lot of relevant experience, your resume can go over two pages. But this exception is reserved for senior professionals with over a decade of relevant experience and tons of skills and achievements that simply can’t fit on one page.

#12. Is a simple resume okay?

Absolutely, a simple resume is often more than okay—it's preferable.

Before your resume even gets to the hiring manager, a complicated layout could get it rejected by the applicant tracking system (ATS). A simple resume template can help get your application straight to the hiring manager.

A clean layout can also make sure that your resume is easily readable and looks professional. This can focus the hiring manager's attention on your work experience and skills without excessive clutter or flashy colors to distract them.

Key Takeaways

And that’s a wrap!

If you’ve followed all of our advice until now, congrats! You’re probably an expert on how to make a resume.

To recap, let’s go through some of the most important lessons we’ve learned so far...

• Use the right resume builder to make the process as smooth as possible. You don’t want to mess around with formatting for hours before even starting to work on your resume!
• Focus on your achievements over responsibilities. This can help you stand out from all the other applicants, especially if you back your claims up with data.
• Include all the must-have sections, like the resume summary, work experience, education, and skills. Then leverage optional sections if you have leftover space.
• Tailor your resume for the job you’re applying for. Everything listed on your resume should be relevant to the specific job you’re applying for, and you should write a new resume for every new job application.
• Take the time to perfect your cover letter. It’s just as important as your resume, so make sure you pay as much attention to it!

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The Top 10 Best Free Resume Builders of 2024

Get ahead in your job search with these top-rated tools that allow you to create a professional resume without hidden fees or premium upgrades.

Customers Interviewed by:

Is writing your resume giving you a headache? Use a resume builder and save valuable time!

In this article, we present the 10 best free resume builders you can use to create a perfect resume in no time. We’ll give you the pros and cons of each builder, show you how to use it, and provide resume examples.

What is a resume builder?

A resume builder is an online tool that comes with pre-made professional resume templates. All you need to do is plug in your information. The resume builder takes care of the rest!

The problem is that many resume builders that advertise themselves as free are NOT actually free. After you’ve spent time working on your resume, you’ll find that you need to pay to download it. This isn’t free, it’s frustrating!

But don’t worry, we’ve got you covered. The following list features resume builders that are actually free. There are no hidden costs, so you can write a resume and download it without any surprises.

Usability score: Extremely Easy

Why do I like this resume builder?

I have to admit, I’m a bit biased! But I really like this online resume builder. It’s easy to use and creates a highly readable, professional resume in no time. And it’s totally free.

My favorite part of this resume builder is that it’s  ATS-friendly . The templates are designed with applicant tracking systems in mind, ensuring your resume gets noticed by employers who use ATS software to screen applicants.

Another nice feature of this resume builder is the split-screen format. On the left is the area where you input your information. On the right is a real-time preview of your resume as you build it.

When you’re done, you can easily tailor your resume to the specific job you’re applying to by using Jobscan’s resume scanner (up to two free jobs a month).

The resume scanner provides you with a resume score that shows how closely your resume matches the description of the job you’re applying to. It also tells you how to increase your score to get a job interview for your dream job.

Is this resume builder really free? How do you use it?

Yes, Jobscan’s resume builder is 100% free. There are no hidden costs.

• Import an existing resume or create a new resume from scratch.
• Choose one of the ATS-friendly resume templates.
• Fill in your contact information, work history, education, skills, and certificates.
• Use Jobscan’s resume scanner to optimize your resume (two free jobs a month).
• Download your resume as a PDF.

Pros and cons of using Jobscan’s resume builder

• The tool is completely free to use, making it accessible to everyone.
• The split-screen format makes it easy to preview your resume as you build it.
• The free templates are ATS-friendly.
• There are no hidden costs.
• You can use Jobscan’s resume scanner to optimize your resume according to best practices.
• The free version only allows two free scans per month.
• AI assistant is only available with paid version.

Sample resume made with Jobscan

2. CakeResume

First of all, there’s a nice selection of templates. And the drag-and-drop interface allowed me to easily add and rearrange sections as needed.

In addition to a resume, I was able to create a public profile, which I linked my LinkedIn profile to. It was then easy to generate links to both my profile and my resume that could easily be shared.

The only downside of CakeResume is that you can just build one basic resume using their free version.

Yes, CakeResume is free, but you can only create one basic resume.

• Sign up for a free account.
• Pick a template that suits your professional style.
• Use their drag-and-drop interface to organize your professional experiences, education, and skills sections.
• Fill in your details.
• Create a public profile and link your LinkedIn information for added visibility.
• Click the PDF button in the upper left corner to download your resume for free.

Pros and cons of using CakeResume’s builder

• The drag-and-drop sections make customization simple.
• You can create a public profile, enhancing your professional presence.
• You can easily download your resume in PDF format.
• You can create a shareable link to your online resume.
• You can only create one free basic resume.
• The resume can only be downloaded in PDF format.
• The default templates are simple and might not be visually appealing.

Sample resume made with CakeResume

When you’re done building your resume with CakeResume, use Jobscan’s resume scanner to see how well it matches the job description of the position you’re applying for.

3. GotResumeBuilder

I found this free resume builder super easy to use. I used the drag-and-drop feature to quickly organize my sections, and was able to customize fonts and size without any problem.

I love that GotResumeBuilder offers an AI-powered writing assistant. This is a bonus in any free resume builder.

Finally, I liked that I could download my resume as a PDF or Word file without any hidden costs.

Overall, although it might not have all the bells and whistles of some paid tools, GotResumeBuilder is a fantastic option for anyone needing a reliable and cost-free resume builder.

Yes, GotResumeBuilder is entirely free.

• Select a template that fits your style.
• Add your contact info, job title, work experience, education, and skills.
• Use the AI-powered writing assistant to help you.
• Adjust fonts, sizes, and other design elements.
• Check the real-time preview to see how your resume looks.
• Once satisfied, download your resume in your preferred format (PDF, Word, HTML, or plain text).

Pros and cons of using GotResumeBuilder

• You can create and download resumes in multiple formats (PDF, Word, HTML, txt).
• The platform features an AI-powered writing assistant that can suggest bullet points​.
• Easy to customize with drag-and-drop organizer, quick font adjuster, and real-time preview​​.
• May lack some of the advanced functionalities found in premium resume builders, such as more in-depth resume design, customization, and integration with Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS)​​.

Sample resume made with GotResumeBuilder

When you’re done building your resume with GotResumeBuilder, use Jobscan’s resume scanner to see how well it matches the job description of the position you’re applying for.

4. Resume Trick

Usability score: Easy

Resume Trick offers a variety of free, customizable templates that cater to different styles and industries. It also has an AI-powered assistant, which provides writing suggestions and formatting tips. This is a big plus.

This resume builder is also multilingual. Besides English, other languages include German, French, Italian, Spanish, and Portuguese. Another plus.

Finally, you can download the finished resume in PDF format with no hidden costs. Everything a free resume builder should have!

Yes, Resume Trick is entirely free.

• Register for a free account using your Google credentials.
• Browse the selection of resume templates, which range from classic to modern designs.
• Enter your information, including your professional qualifications, education, and relevant skills.
• Use the AI tool to get helpful suggestions and formatting tips.
• Adjust the template’s layout, fonts, and colors to personalize your resume.
• Preview your resume.
• Once you’re satisfied, download your resume in PDF format for free.

Pros and cons of using Resume Trick’s builder

• A range of customizable templates that cater to different styles and industries.
• The AI assistant provides helpful writing suggestions and formatting tips.
• You can create resumes in multiple languages, including German, French, Italian, Spanish, and Portuguese.
• You can download the finished resume in PDF format at no cost.
• While the platform offers basic customization and AI assistance, it may lack some of the more advanced features available in premium resume builders.

Sample resume made with Resume Trick

When you’re done building your resume with Resume Trick, use Jobscan’s resume scanner to see how well it matches the job description of the position you’re applying for.

Usability score: Moderately easy

Enhancv is another strong resume builder that does the basics well. It’s got templates, easy customization, and even an AI assistant that helps “write and improve resumes”. And, of course, you can download your resume in PDF format.

BUT, you can only use the free version of Enhancv for 7 days. After that you’ll have to pay for a subscription.

During the free trial period, you can create up to two resumes and cover letters . You have access to all available resume and cover letter templates and basic resume sections.

Yes, it’s free for 7 days, after which you’ll have to pay for a subscription.

• Click on “Build Your Resume” to begin creating your resume.
• You can either start from scratch or upload an existing resume to get started.
• Select a template that suits your style and industry.
• Fill in your information.
• Use the drag-and-drop interface to rearrange sections. You can add up to 15 section items during the free trial.
• Check the real-time preview of your resume.
• During the free 7-day trial, you can download your resume in PDF format.

Pros and cons of using Enhancv’s builder

• Offers a wide range of templates that cater to different industries and styles.
• Features an intuitive drag-and-drop interface that makes it easy to customize layouts, fonts, and colors.
• The AI-powered assistant provides writing suggestions and formatting tips.
• Users can preview their resume as they build it.
• After the 7-day trial, you must pay for a subscription to continue to access the resume builder.
• During the free trial, users are restricted to a maximum of 15 section items .

Sample resume made with Enhancv

When you’re done building your resume with Enhancv, use Jobscan’s resume scanner to see how well it matches the job description of the position you’re applying for.

6. ResumeGiants

Usability score : Moderately easy

I found ResumeGiants to be an excellent tool for creating a professional resume and cover letter.

First of all, the platform is free to use. You can create and download your resume without any hidden charges. And it has an AI assistant, which provides writing suggestions and formatting tips.

The platform is available in nearly a dozen languages, including German, Spanish, French, Italian, Dutch, Polish, Portuguese, Hebrew, Chinese, and Japanese.

Overall, ResumeGiants is a fantastic, user-friendly option for job seekers looking to create standout resumes at no cost.

Yes, ResumeGiants is completely free.

• Create a free account.
• Browse the variety of templates available and select the best fit.
• Fill in your personal details (address, email, phone number), work experience, education, and skills.
• Adjust the layout, fonts, and colors to suit your preferences.
• Use the AI-powered suggestions for writing and formatting tips.
• Check the real-time preview to ensure everything looks good.
• Download your resume in your preferred format (PDF, Word, etc.) for free.

Pros and cons of using ResumeGiant’s builder

• You can create and download resumes and cover letters without any hidden charges.
• Available in nearly a dozen languages.
• Provides AI-generated writing suggestions and formatting tips.
• The interface is intuitive and easy to navigate.
• Resumes created may not always be optimized for Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS).
• While the free features are robust, some advanced features may be limited compared to paid services.

Sample resume made with ResumeGiants

When you’re done building your resume with ResumeGiants, use Jobscan’s resume scanner to see how well it matches the job description of the position you’re applying for.

Usability score : Moderate

The best thing about Indeed’s resume builder is that you can automatically share your resume with potential employers on the Indeed website. 

Now for the negatives. Overall, I didn’t feel that this resume builder was flexible enough. For example, next to each resume skill you must add your experience level. I didn’t want that option but there’s no way to turn it off.

The education section was also limited (no option to choose MBA?). Plus, the ability to manually edit entries is limited as well.

But perhaps the biggest issue I had with this resume builder was that it doesn’t save your work! Although they do warn you with this message, “Your information will not be saved when this browser tab is closed.”

Yes, Indeed’s resume builder is free.

• Sign in to your Indeed account (or create one first).
• Click “Build your free resume”.
• Enter your contact info, work history, years of experience, and education.
• Include additional sections like skills, certifications, awards, and projects.
• Download your resume in PDF format.

Pros and cons of using Indeed’s resume builder

• You can automatically share your resume with potential employers on Indeed.
• Indeed’s resume builder is completely free with no hidden costs.
• You can upload your existing resume to have it automatically reformatted.
• The builder isn’t flexible enough; there’s no way to turn off options you don’t want.
• The ability to manually edit entries is limited.
• The builder does not save your work automatically, and your information will be lost if the browser tab is closed.

Sample resume made with Indeed

When you’re done building your resume with Indeed, use Jobscan’s resume scanner to see how well it matches the job description of the position you’re applying for.

8. Kickresume

I liked the user-friendly interface and the AI-powered writing assistant, which can help you generate and rewrite content.

Unfortunately, you can only list two skills with the free version, which is quite limiting. I also didn’t like that I couldn’t add a resume headline or resume summary . And the preview was too small to read properly.

On the positive side, the unlimited downloads are a nice feature for a free tool, and it offers the option to create a matching cover letter.

​Yes it’s free, but there are limitations (like only being able to list two skills).

• Sign up for a free Kickresume account.
• Select one of the four basic resume templates available.
• Enter your contact details, work history, and education.
• Include additional sections like skills (limited to 2 skills in the free version).
• Download your resume in PDF format, with unlimited downloads available.

Pros and cons of using Kickresume’s builder

• Allows you to use AI to generate and rewrite content.
• You can download your resume as many times as needed without additional costs.
• Provides the option to create a matching cover letter.
• You can only list two skills with the free version.
• The preview is too small to read comfortably.
• There is no option to include a resume headline or summary.
• The free version lacks flexibility in key areas, making it less practical for comprehensive resume building.

Sample resume made with Kickresume

When you’re done building your resume with Kickresume, use Jobscan’s resume scanner to see how well it matches the job description of the position you’re applying for.

It takes a bit of practice to learn how to use Canva, but once you get the hang of it you’ll be able to create a visually appealing resume in no time.

There’s a wide variety of templates to choose from, although many of them aren’t suitable for Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS). It’s also easy to customize colors , fonts, and layouts to truly make your resume your own.

Overall, I found Canva to be a strong resume builder with no hidden charges.

Yes, Canva users can create, edit, and download their resumes for free.

• Visit Canva’s website and sign up for a free account.
• Select a free template that fits your style.
• Open the template and use Canva’s drag-and-drop interface to personalize it.
• Change colors, fonts, and layouts to your liking.
• Enter your personal details, work experience, education, and skills.
• Add text boxes for additional sections like certifications or awards.
• Click the “Download” button, choose PDF format, and download your resume.
• Save your project in Canva for future updates and generate a shareable link if needed.

Pros and cons of using Canva’s resume builder

• The drag-and-drop functionality makes it easy to customize templates, even for beginners.
• Hundreds of free, professionally designed templates are available.
• Users can personalize colors, fonts, and layouts
• Resumes can be downloaded in multiple formats (PDF, JPG, PNG) as many times as needed without any cost.
• Many of Canva’s templates might not be appropriate for Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS).
• You can’t download your resume in Word format.
• There are no expert tips for writing or suggestions for relevant keywords, making it harder to tailor resumes for ATS.

Sample resume made with Canva

When you’re done building your resume with Canva, use Jobscan’s resume scanner to see how well it matches the job description of the position you’re applying for.

10. Resume.com

Resume.com is owned by Indeed, so you’ll need an Indeed account to use this builder. It is possible to build a resume in guest mode without signing in, but it will be deleted after 48 hours.

Overall, this builder is easy to use. You can drag sections to reorder them, and you’ll be able to preview your resume in real-time as you build it, which is always a positive.

You can also add custom sections, which adds some flexibility. For example, if you want a headline section, you can manually create one.

I especially liked the tips that pop up as you add your information to each section. And it’s simple to download your resume as a PDF (there’s no Word option though).

Unfortunately, I thought the final resume looked a bit bland and uninspiring.

While this builder is free, you must create an Indeed account and use it to sign into Resume.com. If you don’t, your resume will be deleted in 48 hours (you’ll even see a clock counting down).

• Create an Indeed account and use it to log in.
• Add your information to existing sections like work experience, education, and skills.
• Create custom sections (like for the headline) and reorder them by dragging.
• Click the PDF button to download your resume.

Pros and cons of using Resume.com’s builder

• The builder allows you to easily visualize your resume as you build it.
• You can add custom sections, such as a headline, for greater flexibility.
• Easily reorder sections by dragging and dropping them.
• The tips feature provides useful guidance as you add information to each section.
• Simple to download your resume as a PDF file.
• You need an Indeed account to use the builder since Resume.com is owned by Indeed.
• The final resume can look a bit bland and uninspiring.
• Resumes can only be downloaded as PDFs, not Word documents.
• Your resume will only be saved for 48 hours unless you create an Indeed account.

Sample resume made with Resume.com

When you’re done building your resume with Resume.com, use Jobscan’s resume scanner to see how well it matches the job description of the position you’re applying for.

A resume builder is the easy way to build your resume. It simplifies the process of creating a professional resume by offering templates and step-by-step guidance, ensuring your resume is well-structured and highlights your strengths.

Yes, many resume builders offer completely free templates that jobseekers can use to create and download their resumes without any cost.

Some resume builders are completely free, while others may charge for additional features like downloading or premium templates. Always check for any hidden costs.

The best resume builder depends on your needs, but popular options include Jobscan, Resume Genius, Novoresume, and Resume.com, known for their ease of use and comprehensive features.

Yes, many resume builders offer tips, examples, and suggestions to help you write effective resume content tailored to your job application.

Robert Henderson, CPRW, is a career advice writer and a resume expert at Jobscan.

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How To Use Resume Builder for Free

Resume Builder Features

Free cover letter generator: build a better cover letter in minutes.

The Resume Builder app offers free resume building with guidance for writing each section of your resume, suggested edits, and text downloads. You can also access free resources , resume examples , and guides on the Resume Builder website.

With a $2.95 14-day trial, you can unlock every feature the application offers. This offer includes custom templates and resume downloads in PDF and DOCX formats. Below, you’ll find a list of unique features and benefits in the Resume Builder app to help accelerate your job search and career advancement.

Using a free Resume Builder plan allows you to:

• Build a custom resume from the ground up using artificial intelligence (AI) suggested phrases and guidance on recommended sections
• Review our collection of resume examples, cover letter examples , job-hunting guides, and resources to craft your own unique resume
• Save and edit your resume online by signing up for a free account
• Download your completed resume as a text (TXT)-only file

Step 1: Select your template

Select your template on the Resume Builder app. The application has various templates you can tailor to your unique professional needs and goals.

Step 2: Select create a new resume or import your current resume

Once you’ve chosen your template, you can create a new resume from scratch or import information from a resume document.

To use the upload feature, choose an existing resume from your computer and upload it to the Resume Builder app. Or you can upload a document from Google Drive or Dropbox.

To write your resume in the app, follow the prompts to build each section. You can use the AI suggestions and tips to get help writing.

Step 3: Create your free Resume Builder account

After building your custom resume using Resume Builder’s state-of-the-art tools, create your free account to continue the process. No credit card or billing information is required unless you sign up for a paid account to download your resume as a PDF or DOCX.

Step 4: Return to the dashboard and download your text resume

After saving your resume, return to the dashboard and select the file you wish to download.

You can save your resume as a plain text file.

Resume Builder offers cutting-edge features to help you translate your career experience into a winning resume. We offer 25+ customizable resume template designs, expert writing support, and resume examples crafted by certified resume writers.

Advanced resume writing support tools

The Resume Builder app provides expert guidance to help you craft every section of your resume with clarity and depth. You can use suggested work history phrases written by professional resume writers and AI-powered support.

Suggested bullet point phrases

Writing a resume from scratch can be daunting, but you can get help from our database of suggested phrases written by certified resume writers. You can instantly generate Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS)-friendly content according to your job title.

Unlimited customization

With a premium subscription, the Resume Builder app offers unlimited ways for you to customize your resume according to your individual career needs. Resume Builder includes 25+ resume design templates you can explore and alter to align with your professional brand.

We also provide options for custom resume sections to help you capture the nuances of your career experience.

Don’t stop at a professional resume. Land that job with the whole package by creating a cover letter quickly and easily. In three easy steps, complete your application in minutes with our cover letter generator. Write a streamlined, personalized, professional, stylish cover letter in seconds. With our cover letter builder, you can stop agonizing over the right thing to say and let our generator format everything for you. Just like resumes on the Resume Builder app, you can download text cover letters for free, or get PDF downloads with a paid subscription.

Frank Hackett

Certified Professional Resume Writer (CPRW)

Frank Hackett is a professional resume writer and career consultant with over eight years of experience. As the lead editor at a boutique career consulting firm, Frank developed an innovative approach to resume writing that empowers job seekers to tell their professional stories. His approach involves creating accomplishment-driven documents that balance keyword optimization with personal branding. Frank is a Certified Professional Resume Writer (CPRW) with the Professional Association of Resume Writers and Career Coaches (PAWRCC).

Build a Resume to Enhance Your Career

• How to Build a Resume Learn More
• Basic Resume Examples and Templates Learn More
• How Many Jobs Should You List on a Resume? Learn More
• How to Include Personal and Academic Projects on Your Resume Learn More

Essential Guides for Your Job Search

• How to Land Your Dream Job Learn More
• How to Organize Your Job Search Learn More
• How to Include References in Your Job Search Learn More
• The Best Questions to Ask in a Job Interview Learn More

How-To Geek

How to automatically resume applications when logging in on windows 10.

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5 Reasons I’m Still Using Windows 10 on My Main PC

This is how i fixed the windows update error 0x80070643, how to debloat windows 11 for optimal performance.

Sometimes you're in the middle of a productive session in Windows 10, but you need to log out or restart your machine. Normally, you might need to start your session over again. But with a quick change in Settings, Windows can remember and re-open your non-legacy apps automatically when you log back in. Here's how to set it up.

First, open Windows Settings. To do so, click the Start menu and select the small gear icon, or press Windows+i on your keyboard.

In "Settings," click "Accounts."

In "Accounts," click "Sign-in options" in the sidebar.

In Sign-in options, scroll down the page until you see the "Restart apps" option. Flip the switch just below it until it's set to "On."

After that, close Settings.

The next time you log out and log back in, what Microsoft calls your "restartable apps" will be reloaded automatically. It's up to application developers to make their apps restartable, so this may not work with all apps. However, it does include modern Windows 10 apps written for the UWP platform ---which includes all apps provided on the Microsoft Store---as well as modern browsers.

Legacy apps (that use the Win32 API) written for Windows versions prior to Windows 8 may not be restarted automatically. Still, it's very handy!

More From Forbes

Resonate and elevate: how to transform your résumé into a strategic career catalyst.

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Shruti Parashar consults global professionals aiming to pursue MBA and Executive MBA programs with GOALisB .

The résumé is not merely a chronological list of work experiences and education; it serves as a powerful strategic document capable of opening doors to new career opportunities. When you craft it thoughtfully, the résumé transforms into a compelling marketing tool that exhibits your unique skills, accomplishments and potential value to prospective employers. In this article, I will guide you through a step-by-step process to revamp your résumé into a strategic masterpiece, making you stand out from the crowd and propelling you toward your dream career. Additionally, I'll explore different résumé formats and demonstrate how each can strategically present your qualifications effectively.

Step 1: Assess Yourself And Set Goals

Begin by evaluating your career goals, strengths and the direction you want to take. Ask yourself: What type of roles am I targeting? Which skills and experiences align most closely with these positions? By understanding your objectives, you can customize your résumé to cater to the specific requirements of your desired job market.

Step 2: Research The Job Market

Dive deep into the industry and job roles you are interested in. Examine job descriptions thoroughly, identify prevalent requirements and make note of the keywords frequently used by employers. This research will form the foundation for aligning your résumé with the expectations of potential employers, ensuring a more targeted and impactful application.

Step 3: Select The Right Résumé Format

There are several résumé formats to choose from, and each can be strategically employed based on your career situation:

Chronological Résumé

This presents your work experiences in reverse chronological order. It is the most commonly used format and provides a clear and easy-to-follow timeline of your career progression. It highlights your career progression and allows employers to see your continuous growth. This format is ideal when you have a stable work history with roles directly related to your current job target.

Functional Résumé

The functional résumé emphasizes your skills and abilities over the chronological order of your work experience. It highlights your relevant qualifications and accomplishments, making it ideal for individuals with diverse experiences or those looking to make a career change. It groups your achievements under relevant skill categories, making it effective for career changers, those with employment gaps or individuals with diverse experiences.

Targeted Résumé

A targeted résumé is specifically tailored for a particular job or company, addressing the unique requirements of that position. Although creating targeted résumés may require additional effort and time, they are highly effective, particularly when applying for competitive positions, as they demonstrate a strong alignment between your skills and the employer's needs.

STAR Format

The STAR format is a technique used to structure your résumé's accomplishment statements:

Situation: Describe the context or challenge you faced.

Task: Specify what was required of you in that situation.

Action: It is important to mention the steps taken to address the task or challenge.

Result: Quantify your achievements.

For example:

• Original résumé bullet point: "Developed and executed marketing campaigns to promote new product launches."

• Revised résumé point in STAR format: "Strategized and executed marketing campaigns with cross-functional teams, including creative, sales and product development; generated a 25% increase in product sales within the first quarter of the campaigns."

Step 4: Craft A Powerful Professional Summary

Regardless of the résumé format you choose, start with a compelling professional summary. Summarize your key qualifications, notable achievements and the value you bring to the table. A well-crafted summary immediately captures the reader's attention and encourages them to delve further into your résumé.

Step 5: Include Accomplishments, Not Just Responsibilities

When listing your work experience, focus on achievements and results rather than merely outlining job duties. Utilize quantifiable metrics to effectively demonstrate the impact of your contributions. This approach helps potential employers envision how you can replicate that success in their organization.

Step 6: Highlight Relevant Skills

Tailor your skills section to reflect the specific requirements of your target roles. Incorporate both hard skills (technical abilities) and soft skills (communication, leadership, problem-solving) that are highly valued in your chosen industry.

Step 7: Shape Your Story

You can decide if you wish to organize your work history in reverse chronological order. The idea is to emphasize experiences that align with your career goals and remove irrelevant or outdated roles. Showcase career progression and use concise bullet points to outline your achievements in each position.

Step 8: Integrate Keywords Strategically

In today's job market, many companies employ applicant tracking systems (ATS) to screen résumés. Strategically identify keywords from your industry and the job description to better align your résumé for ATS scanning.

Step 9: Add Education And Certifications

List your educational qualifications and relevant certifications. Be selective about including details, especially if you have extensive work experience, as employers are more interested in your professional accomplishments.

Step 10: Enhance Your Résumé Design

The visual presentation of your résumé matters. Choose a clean, professional layout with legible fonts. Use bullet points and bold headings to make your résumé easy to read and navigate.

Step 11: Seek Feedback

Seek feedback from trusted peers, mentors or professional résumé writers to gain valuable insights and further polish your résumé.

Remember, your résumé is more than just a document; it serves as a reflection of your brand and potential, making it crucial to present a flawless and compelling representation of your skills and achievements. By approaching your résumé as a strategic career catalyst, you can create a compelling and impactful representation of your professional journey.

Tailor your résumé to match your career goals, showcase your achievements and align with the demands of your target job market. A skillfully crafted strategic résumé can significantly increase your likelihood of securing the job of your dreams and propelling your career to new heights. Selecting the appropriate résumé format further enhances your ability to present your qualifications effectively and attract the attention of hiring managers in your desired field.

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• How to Make a Resume

Creating a standout resume might seem daunting, but it’s your key to landing that dream job. Your resume is more than just a list of jobs; it’s your personal marketing tool that highlights your skills, experiences, and achievements in a way that attracts potential employers. Nowadays it’s everyone’s concern how to make a resume that is ATS friendly and reflects your skills and knowledge.

In this article, we’ll walk you through the essential steps to build a resume that gets noticed by hiring managers and recruiters. We’ll cover resume templates , effective resume formats , and tips for writing powerful resume bullet points. Building your resume is crucial for different job applications, how to highlight your professional experience and the best ways to list your education and certifications.

Table of Content

What is a Resume

Why a resume is important.

Before, moving on to how to write a resume even if you’re a fresher and have no experience, let us understand what is resume and why it is important.

A resume is a concise document that summarizes your skills , experiences , and achievements to showcase your qualifications for a job. Understanding resume writing how to is essential for creating a compelling resume that stands out. When learning how a resume is written, it’s important to focus on formatting, clarity, and relevance. Effective resume writing involves choosing the right structure, highlighting your most significant accomplishments , and tailoring the content to the job you’re applying for. By mastering how to write a resume, you can create a powerful tool that captures the attention of potential employers and helps you advance in your career.

If you want paychecks, you’ve to sell yourself first and a resume is that one tool or document that lists out your features and USPs that will help you to sell yourself in the job market. Within one or two pages, a resume convinces recruiters if they want to call you for a job interview or not. (That much power your resume holds)

So, if you want to bag your first interview or want to interview at your dream company or for a dream job role , it’s very important for you to write a strong and power-packed resume with correct keywords and relevant skills that will persuade recruiters to hit “I want to interview you” button. 

How to Make a Resume (Full Guide)

Choose your desired resume format.

• Reverse chronological resume format
• Functional or Skilled Focused resume format
• Hybrid Format
• Dos and Don’ts of Resume Layout 
• What resume format is best for ATS

Most people have two options when it comes to getting an interview call – A++ top-tier level resume or an “I know someone here” referral. No matter which group you belong to, it’s important to up your resume game and understands the strategies that are used to land an interview from your dream company within a week, if not days. Before you dive into the resume-building process, you have to decide on the right resume format that will take you up the ladder. If you’ve already decided to write your resume on a text editor like MS Word, it’s highly recommended you should keep your HANDS OFF from them. 

Formatting your resume on a basic text editor will not waste your time but also your effort. We recommend that you should use a resume builder tool like GeeksforGeeks Online Resume Builde r – Free. Our resume builder is fast, simple, and free to use. Moving onto resume formats that you can use to format your resume. 

There are three types of resume formats: reverse chronological, functional or skills-based, and hybrid. You should choose the format that suits the type of job you are applying for and your level of experience.

Types of Resume Formats

1) Reverse chronological Resume Format – This highlights your career advancement and emphasizes the relevant job experience. It’s an absolute fan favorite of recruiters. However, it doesn’t show your skills much so if you’re someone with highly relevant job experience, you can opt for this resume format.

Reverse chronological Resume Format

2) Functional/skills-based Resume Format – Are you a fresher with no job experience? Opt for a functional or skill-based resume format if you have skills to brag about but no relevant work experience. 

Functional/skills-based Resume Format

3) Hybrid Resume Format – Now, this resume format is preferred by most recruiters and loved by job seekers with diverse skillsets and job experience. It combines the best elements of both reverse chronological and functional resume format and provides space for the right keyword. 

If you’re wondering which resume format is best for ATS, go for the reverse chronological resume format. When it comes to resume layout, you need to mind these tips while formatting your resumes:

• Page Count: Keep your resume to one page. Max 2 if you’ve 7+ of experience and it’s relevant to your job role. Recruiters get 1000+ resumes every day and it gets tough to go through resumes with more than 2 pages. 
• Heading Tag: If you’re choosing an H1 tag or an H2 tag to write your headlines in your resume, then ensure that all headlines have the same tag.
• White space: Keep enough white space in your resume. Negative space is needed to make your resume look professional.
• PDF or Word: Download your resume as a PDF document as it can be read by most ATS. If the job description mentions that you need to send the doc file as a .doc, then send your resume like that as old ATS can’t read PDF files.

 Add your contact information

The most important and overlooked section of your resume is the contact information section which is right under your name. Even if you write everything correctly but haven’t provided your contact details, HRs can’t reach out to you even if they want to contact you. Ensure that everything on your contact information is up to date and triple-check the details if needed. 

Things that you should include are: 

• First Name / Last Name – Mention the name that is provided on your social security card or if you’re in India, it should match the name that’s provided on your PAN card or Aadhaar card.
• Phone Number – Only provide the phone number that is reachable.
• Email Address – Don’t provide an unprotected email address. Your email address should be like this: “[email protected]”. Avoid providing email addresses like [email protected], [email protected]
• Location – Your residential address should be the same as the one where you stay or relocated.
• Social Media URLs – If you’re a software developer, mention your Github profile. If you’re a designer, then Behance profile and if you’re a writer, provide your personal blog that showcases your abilities. Don’t forget to include your LinkedIn account as most recruiters go through LinkedIn to see your online presence. 

Write a Resume Headline that Can Stand You Out From the Crowd

A resume headline is a short, one-line statement that conveys who you are as a candidate. It is important to write a headline that grabs the recruiter’s attention and encourages them to read your qualifications in more depth. Your resume headline is often the first thing recruiters read so impress them within seconds by writing a short and concise headline. Keep it relevant to your job skills and make sure that you put the right keywords that are relevant to the job posting .

Some resume headlines examples for you to check out:

• Goal-Oriented Senior Accountant with 6+ Years of Accounting Experience in XYZ Company.
• Successful Manager of Dozens of Online Marketing Campaigns
• Award-Winning Video Editor Skilled in Web Design and Video Editing
• Detail-Oriented History Student with Curatorial Experience

Include a professional summary

The first impression is your last impression. This phrase stands true to date. An effective resume introduction can make or break you no matter what type of job you’re applying for. Your summary or objective can give the opportunity to impress the recruiter so carefully write your resume summary/objective. Don’t know where to write a resume summary or objective? We got you covered.

A resume summary is a 2-3 sentence summary of your working experience. Unless you’re a recent college grad or changing careers, you should use a resume summary in almost any scenario.

On the other hand, a resume objective implies the goal of your resume. It conveys why you want to work in that particular field and the motivation behind it. When writing a resume summary, include an objective of 2-3 lines. If you’re changing your career or have no significant work experience, make sure to write a resume objective.

Add your work experience

• If you’re a fresher, keep the education section at the top, and if you’re an experienced person or did work in FAANG companies or big coming, then put work experience at the top.
• If you’re a backend intern, make sure you’re writing the designation as a software engineering intern. 
• Make sure you’re covering up your tasks in 2-3 points.

Now we’re down to the most important part of the resume – work experience . If an add sells a product with just a few words, your resume does the same with you by selling you on the basis of your past work experience and achievements. Learning to write this section is a bit tough but once you master writing the perfect work experience section, 80% work is done here and after this you will know how to write and resume. So, let’s see how to list your work experience: Your work experience should be written in reverse chronological order as ATS can scan reverse chronological resume format easily.

It should be something like this:

Job title | Company Name | Date of employment 

Accomplishments & Achievements

• Job title: Keep it on top of your resume so that recruiters can easily see what position you’re applying for.
• Company name: Mention the company you are working in or working for.
• Date of employment: Mention the timeframe of your employment in all the companies you worked for. Ensure that format is like this – dd/mm/yyyy. It is important to mention as ATS parses it only then.
• Accomplishments and achievements: This is where you mention your core achievements that will in turn bag you – your dream job. List your achievements or responsibilities according to your job role.
• If you’re a fresher, keep the education section at the top and if you’re an intern or worked in FAANG companies or big companies, then make sure to put the work experience section at the top.
• If you’re a backend intern, instead of writing your job title as “Backend Intern”, write it as a “Software Engineering Intern”. You should always write the job title mentioned in the job description.
• Don’t write 10-15 points covering your job responsibilities. Recruiters don’t have the time to go through all of the responsibilities. Keep it to 2-3 points max.
• Mention achievements in terms of how exactly you helped the company grow, reach quarterly quotas, and so on. Numbers play a big role when it comes to convincing your future employers what exactly you achieved.

Mention your Soft and Hard Skills

Now that you mastered writing your work experience section, it’s time to dive into your skills section. There’re 2 types of skills:

• Soft Skills: These are your personal skills like social skills, communication skills, personal traits, career attributes, leadership, critical thinking, and management.
• Hard/Technical Skills: Hard Skills are measurable skills that you can measure like how proficient you’re in that particular skill. The use of technical skills frequently requires specialized tools and the technologies needed to use them.

A good resume should cover both. However, it’s highly advisable that you should mention those skills in which you’re fluent and not just at a beginner level. To know more about how to list your key technical skills, read our article 7 Key Technical Skills to List on Your Resume in 2022 .

Once you list your hard skills with your experience level, double-check your skills section and remove any skill you feel you’re not confident in and don’t LIE even if your life depends on it. Lying about skills can get you in serious trouble later on and can get you blacklisted too.

Include your education

The next section is all about your educational background, achievements, and projects. We’ll keep it short and concise for you. List your educational background in this way:

• Program Name. E.g.: “MBA in Marketing”
• University Name. E.g.: “Mumbai University”
• Years Attended. E.g.: “06/2019-05/2021”
• (Optional) CGPA. E.g.: “CGPA: 8”
• (Optional) Academic achievements. If you have written any interesting papers or excelled in any courses, do describe them.

Let’s move on to some tips that will help you perfect your educational background, achievement, and project section:

• Only keep the last 2 educational qualifications or examinations you’ve given.
• Only add those projects which are relevant to your job opening – projects which have more number of features.
• Projects to list- API-based projects, Portfolio-based projects, and Full-stack projects.
• Add as many numbers as you can while listing achievements – add your highest ranking in CP or the highest number of problems you solved on GeeksforGeeks or XYZ. 
• Don’t add intra-college achievements as it put forth a negative impression on recruiters.
• Don’t add “President of the xxx club” if you’re applying for tech roles. 

Mention Other Sections (Optional)

All the sections we’ve covered are must-haves but there are a few more sections that are optional and don’t hold much significance. These are like booster sections that can give you an extra wow effect.

The following sections can be added to your resume:

• Languages – If you’re multilingual and can be handy with different languages, do mention that in your resume. However, avoid mentioning language that you’re not proficient in as it can get you in trouble later on if you’re not able to help your colleagues when they require your help with the said language.
• Hobbies and Interests – Have extra space in your resume? Add up your hobbies and interests. It shows how you’re as an individual.
• Volunteering Experiences – Some studies show that volunteering has a greater impact on hiring. It shows that you’re an empathetic person by nature and can be loyal to the company. 
• Courses, Certifications, and Awards – Do you have any certifications or awards that can show you off and is relevant to the job position you applied for? Note them down in the resume as it shows your expertise in the said field.

Customize Your Resume According to the Job Posting

We’re almost at the end of the article. It’s time to format your resume in such a way that ATS can scan your resume smoothly. To understand the term ATS better , you should know ATS stands for Applicant Tracking System . It is software used to manage the entire application process for employers. This system compiles, scans, and ranks all of the applications.

According to a survey done, 98% of Fortune companies are using ATS to scan their resumes. ATS segments resume into various sections: Work Experience , Education, Skills , etc. Next, it looks for precise keywords and qualifications to see if you fit the job description. So it’s important to tailor your resume as per the job description and for how to resume writing. Resumes that don’t comply with the basic requirements are automatically discarded. A job candidate’s resume is ranked based on its relevance (the best resume appears at the top of the recruiter’s pipeline).

Proofread Your Resume With Correct Formatting

Now that you’re done with your resume writing task, it’s time to do the most important task – Proofread your resume. Here’s the checklist we’ve for you:

• Resume fonts – Stick to Ubuntu, Roboto, Overpass, or traditional fonts like Helvetica, Garamond, or Georgia. Your font should be 10-11 and don’t ever go with Comic Sans (only if you want to look like a joker)
• Check tenses – Describe the current work you are doing in the present tense, and use the past tense to describe jobs from the past.
• Resume action words – Use resume action words like “Chaired”, “Controlled”, “Executed”

Also Read: Free Online Resume Builder By GeeksforGeeks – Create Your Resume Now! 10 steps to write an Effective Resume Resume Building – Resources and Tips

In conclusion, learning how to write a resume resume is a crucial step in advancing your career and landing your desired job. Start by selecting a clean and professional format , then focus on highlighting your key skills, experiences, and accomplishments. Tailor each section to the job you’re applying for, ensuring that your qualifications align with the employer’s needs. Building your resume is very beneficial for you so remember to use clear and concise language, and proofread your resume to eliminate any errors. By following these steps, you can create a resume that effectively showcases your strengths and sets you apart from other candidates, increasing your chances of success in the job market.

How to Build a Resume – FAQs

How can i write resume.

You can write your resume by following the methods given above or you can also use any resume templates that will help you a lot.

How to Resume Writing?

Resume writing can be done by some of the points given below: Choose the Right Format Start with a Strong Header Craft a Compelling Summary or Objective Detail Your Work Experience

How can I write a simple resume?

To write a simple resume, use a clean format with clear headings. Include your contact information, a brief summary, your work experience, education, and relevant skills. Keep it concise and focused on your most important qualifications.

How to write a resume for a job?

To write a resume for a job, tailor it to the specific position by highlighting relevant experience and skills. Start with your contact details, followed by a strong summary, detailed work history, education, and a skills section. Use action verbs and quantify your achievements where possible.

What are the 7 basic steps to writing a resume?

Here are the basic steps: Choose the Right Format Start with a Strong Header Write a Compelling Summary Detail Your Work Experience Highlight Your Skills Include Your Education Proofread and Edit

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How to Install and Set Up Windows 11 Without an Internet Connection

This new browser is a productivity miracle, your smart tv can beautify the room by displaying artwork.

Making Windows 10 or 11 perform faster is easy. You just need a few simple tips and tricks. This article covers several methods to make Windows 10 and 11 faster and improve its performance.

The Main Focus Areas to Make Windows Run Faster

There are three umbrella categories for optimizing Windows' performance:

• Operating system tweaks
• Software enhancements
• App replacement or removal

While hardware upgrades also work, like buying more RAM or investing in an SSD (see the differences between SD vs HDD for more info), those cost money, so we're going to skip them. Let's start with the most effective, and free, ways to speed up Windows 10 and 11.

Windows 10 and 11 Operating System Speed Tweaks

Here's how to get your PC running faster, regardless of if you're using Windows 10 or 11.

1. Turn On Game Mode

Windows 10's Creator's Update added a feature called Game Mode . You can improve the performance of any app using Windows' Game Mode . Unfortunately, there's no way to perpetually run in Game Mode. But you can activate it by pressing Windows Key + G . If it doesn't work, you must first enable Game Mode.

To enable Game Mode (in Windows 10: Creator's Update or Windows 11) open Settings > Gaming and choose Game Mode . Tap the toggle switch below Game Mode.

While it's only supposed to be used for games, you can activate it whenever you need to get a little burst of speed. It's particularly useful if you have a lot of background apps that are dragging down a resource-intensive program.

Unfortunately, Game Mode only improves gaming performance by a few percentage points.

Even so, some of you will experience a greater performance boost than others. A reduced number of background apps may improve your performance where no other tricks would help. In theory, Game Mode can function within any application that uses graphics acceleration. If you want to try it out in Adobe Premiere, give it a try.

2. Turn Off Visual Effects

Windows offers an easy way to shut off all visual enhancements.

• Navigate to System > Advanced system settings .
• Choose Advanced from the tabs above.
• Under Performance , choose Settings .
• Left-click on the radio button for Adjust for best performance to shut off all visual effects.

Disabling visual effects disabled on a few systems seems to make a big impact, particularly on older computers. On the downside, things won't look as nice. We advise leaving Smooth edges of screen fonts enabled as it helps when reading text.

3. Speed Up Your Processor

Windows has three default settings for how your processor scales up performance to match workloads. The three defaults are Balanced , High performance , and Power saver . Sometimes manufacturers also include custom plans here, which we advise using if they're available.

For laptop users, you are better off using the Balanced or Power saver plans, but High performance can make Windows faster by trading battery endurance for performance. Because it consumes the most amount of power it's also more appropriate for desktops.

You can alter your settings by navigating to Power Options in the Control Panel.

4. Turn Off Auto-Starting Programs

When you install a program, it sometimes tries to run silently in the background. That's fine for just a handful of programs, but the impact on performance adds up. With enough auto-starting programs running, the entire system gets bogged down.

Getting rid of non-essential startup software is absolutely essential for performance. Fortunately, Windows makes it easy to remove most auto-starters.

To remove auto-starting apps, take the following actions:

• Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to enter the Windows Task Manager.
• Select the Startup tab from the top of the screen.
• From the Startup tab, you can eliminate most auto-starting applications.

The majority of apps out there don't need to run in the background unless they come preinstalled with your computer (and even these are oftentimes bloatware). Unfortunately, some programs hide in other locations, but you can find and eliminate stealth auto-starters as well.

5. Check Your Internet Connection

One of the biggest causes of slow internet speeds isn't your provider. It's your Wi-Fi connection. Thanks to issues like channel congestion and overlapping Wi-Fi signals, it can be difficult getting a stable signal if you live in an apartment complex as different wireless signals overlap over one another, leading to degraded wireless performance.

Fortunately, most routers offer two features that can improve your connection's speed and stability. You can either use a wired connection or change your router's channel. A channel is a segment of a wireless band. Most routers have at least two or three bands and each band is split into distinct channels. The trick is to find a channel that few people are using, which reduces interference.

Configuring a wired connection is simple: just buy an Ethernet cable and plug it in. Configuring a wireless router, on the other hand, is more complicated. Proper wireless setup requires a longer tutorial. We've covered the details on how to fix an unstable Wi-Fi connection on Windows . However, a quick summary is as follows:

• Use Microsoft's Wi-Fi analyzer tool to determine which channels work best for your computer.
• Second, go into your router's settings to change the channel to an unimpeded channel.

In many situations, no unimpeded channel will exist, in which case you might want to consider Wi-Fi 6E , which is almost immune to wireless congestion while offering lightning-fast data transfer speeds.

6. Manage Windows Update for Performance

Windows Update hogs resources when it runs in the background. You can configure it to run only at specific times. For example, when the device isn't in operation. That means no more restarts while you're in the middle of an important task.

Change Active Hours

To configure Windows Update to run only at specific hours:

• Type Windows Update settings into the Windows Search Bar and run the configuration utility.
• Under the heading Update settings , choose Change active hours .
• You can change the active hours on this menu by clicking on Change Active Hours . We advise changing it to a time period when the computer is on but unused.

This setting only limits the times during which Windows will install updates automatically. Windows Update will still download updates during those hours.

Set Your Internet Connection to Metered

If you have a limited bandwidth Wi-Fi connection, Windows Update can significantly impact your internet performance by downloading updates in the background.

You can prevent this by setting your connection to metered. This is just but one of many ways to disable Windows Update , though some security patches may still download.

• Open Windows Settings using Windows Key + I .
• Go to Network & Internet > Wi-Fi .
• Select the network you're currently connected to and under Metered connection > Set as metered connection turn the switch On .

This only works with Wi-Fi networks, though a hack to apply this setting to Ethernet connections does exist.

7. Turn Off Windows 10 or 11's Search Indexing Feature

When you search for a file, Windows doesn't scan every directory on your computer if you have indexing enabled. Indexing creates a text manifest of the files stored on your computer. It dramatically improves file-search speed.

On newer computers, it's best not to turn indexing off. There's little benefit unless an indexing bug causes the service to consume too many resources. However, in that event, I'd advise updating Windows before turning off indexing. Because even on a modern computer, turning off Windows's indexing feature will significantly slow down searches of your storage drive for very little performance gain.

On the other hand, if you own a very old computer, turning off Search Indexing will help your system's performance.

To turn off Windows 10 and 11's Search Index tool:

• Type Index into the Windows Search Tool and left-click Indexing Options .
• Left-click Modify at the bottom of the menu and uncheck the boxes for all of the options listed here.

8. Speed Up Windows with Storage Analyzers and Disk-Cleaning Tools

Both Solid State Drives (SSDs) and Hard Disk Drives (HDDs) slow down when overloaded with data. Both drive technologies like to sit around 50% capacity for optimal performance but anything around 25% free capacity is fine.

One of the best apps for cleaning up an overloaded disk is WinDirStat. WinDirStat is both completely free, open-source, and available in both installed and portable versions.

Download: WinDirStat for Windows (Free)

Windows 10 Software Enhancements

If you're using Windows 10 specifically, give these tricks a try.

9. RAM Drive

Out of all the apps out there that claim to improve performance, no program does it better than a RAM drive . A RAM drive program creates a virtual drive using physical RAM, which is obscenely fast. Users then move parts of essential software to the RAM disk, which results in large gains in speed.

However, we advise RAM drive usage only for those who want to improve the performance of a single application. The most important examples of software that benefit from RAM disks are Photoshop, browsers, and video editing software.

Let's explore how to combine a RAM disk with the Chrome Browser. First, we recommend that you have at least 1GB of RAM free. Ideally, users should have at least 8GB of RAM for a 64-bit system and at least 4GB of RAM on a 32-bit system . But you can get away with less.

A lot of RAM-drive software exists, including first-party software from AMD . A popular favorite is not free: SoftPerfect RAM Disk .

However, if you just want to get your feet wet, give DataRAM's RamDisk a try. The free version is limited to 1GB in size. But if you own an AMD-based system, you get a 4GB maximum instead.

How to Configure a RAM drive

Setting up a RAM disk just requires downloading and installing the software. After running the software, you need to configure it with the following options:

Choose the maximum RAM disk size, which is around 1GB. You can use any size, but a smaller capacity limits its utility.

Check the box for Set Disk Label . That way, you can identify the disk in the next step. Then choose Start RAMDisk .

Configure your browser to read and write cache files to and from the RAM disk.

Right-click on your browser shortcut and choose Properties from the context menu. Windows 10 makes it easier than ever to access a browser shortcut. You can do it directly from the Taskbar.

From Properties , choose the Shortcut tab. Then within the Target: text input field, append the following code to the end of the text, where "R" is your own RAM disk drive letter:

The complete line of code should look something like this:

Your own code may differ, depending on Chrome's configuration.

Finally, choose OK and restart your browser. From now on, Chrome will read and write cache files to the RAM disk.

Not everyone thinks RAM drives work as advertised. To be fair, the critics make good points. One of the biggest shortcomings is that RAM drives can make your computer shut down slower. And because the software runs in the background, older computers might feel more sluggish. Furthermore, sudden power loses can corrupt data held in your RAM drive. So while it may make certain kinds of programs run faster, it can cause other issues.

Download: DataRAM RamDisk | Windows (Free)

10. Malware Scanner

We've written to death on the subject of malware scanners for good reason: many performance problems are caused by malicious programs running wild in the background. Some of the best free malware scanners out there include Malwarebytes, SuperAntiSpyware, and ClamWin.

We have written before about the best free anti-malware clients , which is a good starting point for anyone with a slow computer.

11. Registry Cleaner

The Windows registry has all the settings for Windows and other programs. Installing software changes the registry. However, sometimes when a program is uninstalled, it fails to remove those changes.

Over time, thousands upon thousands of registry modifications slow system performance. A registry cleaner removes those changes and other leftovers from uninstalled programs.

However, registry cleaners sometimes cause more problems than they solve. While you might see a tiny amount of performance improvement, for the most part, you're likely to see glitchy OS behavior after running a registry cleaner.

The best program out there to clean your registry is CCleaner . However, Piriform, the maker of CCleaner, suffered a security breach that allowed hackers to slip malicious code into two versions of CCleaner. Current CCleaner products do not contain malware, but it's worth noting that they've had security issues in the past.

12. Speed Up Windows By Removing Bad Apps

A lot of users install horrible software, thinking that they need it. Most of the time, it's a Potentially Unwanted Program (PUP) that slows your computer down.

Some of the worst offenders include PDF readers, music and video players, browsers, and BitTorrent software. Fortunately, lots of great alternatives exist. The process is simple. First, uninstall the software and, second, install a better program. We've compiled a list of the best free open-source alternatives to paid apps .

Here are a few alternatives you can consider.

• Sumatra PDF Reader
• VLC Video Player
• Google Chrome or Mozilla Firefox
• QBittorrent

PDF Reader Replacement: Sumatra PDF

Many internet users believe that Adobe Acrobat PDF Reader is the only program capable of reading PDF files. That's a myth. Because Adobe Acrobat security vulnerabilities can spread malware, you might want an alternative.

Sumatra PDF Reader is a securer alternative to Adobe. While it lacks a browser-plugin, I recommend Sumatra to everyone as a default PDF reader. Not only is it open-source, but it also reads comic books (CBZ or CBR files), blocks potentially malignant scripts, and runs on older systems.

All modern browsers can read PDF files. You may not even need a dedicated PDF reader.

Download: Sumatra PDF Reader for Windows (Free)

Music and Video Players: VLC Player

VLC Player is one of the three best media players ever made.

You could make the argument that better music players are out there. But for video, few can top VLC. On top of that, it is open-source, supports keyboard shortcuts, plays almost any video file, and costs nothing.

Download: VLC Player for Windows | Mac | Linux | Android | iOS (Free)

Browser Replacement: Chrome Browser

Chrome is perhaps the fastest alternative to Microsoft's Edge or Internet Explorer browsers. It comes in both the standard 32-bit and 64-bit variations . Google even makes an open-source version of Chrome, called Chromium .

Overall, Chrome offers everything that Edge doesn't: extensibility, security, and speed. If you use the internet often, Chrome ranks among the first apps you should install. However, Firefox offers the same degree of extensibility and it's 100% open source.

Also, check out the Windows-optimized browser based on Firefox called Pale Moon . Pale Moon works with many Firefox extensions and comes with 64-bit versions.

Download: Google Chrome Browser (Free)

Download: Mozilla Firefox Browser (Free)

BitTorrent Replacement: qBittorrent

For those of you using a horrible, malware-like BitTorrent client, there is hope. Check out the open-source qBittorrent . Unlike the cross-platform BitTorrent client Deluge, it receives regular updates. On top of that, qBittorrent is more fully-featured and includes all the extras of its competitors, without the crazy malware infections.

Download: QBittorrent for Windows | Linux | Mac (Free)

13. Remove Bloatware from Windows 10 or 11

The latest version of Windows comes with a ridiculous number of preinstalled apps. Not all of these programs are useful. Remove them with this excellent guide on how to debloat Windows 10 and 11.

In most cases, removing the software does nothing. Most of the apps are placeholders that install themselves upon activation. If you're not concerned about Microsoft's bloatware, though, you might want to consider an in-place repair.

In-place repair is most useful for when you want to return your computer to a like-new condition, without reinstalling all of your applications. The in-place repair merely refreshes Windows's core operating system files.

To perform an in-place repair, perform the following actions:

• Download the Windows 10 Media Creation Tool or the Windows 11 Installation Assistant and run it.
• Choose Upgrade this PC now and then click Next .

The computer then downloads a copy of Windows 10 or 11, which can take several hours. After it finishes, the Media Creation Tool reinstalls Windows on top of itself. If your system has been crippled by malware, or through some other kind of damage to the core operating system files, an in-place repair can patch Windows , restoring it to a fresher state.

For more information on the process, here's a video:

14. Remove Windows 10 or 11's Default Apps

Unfortunately, an in-place upgrade replaces or restores all of Windows's baked-in bloatware (if you remove them). Fortunately, a few apps make debloating Windows easier than ever. Our favorite is the Windows 10 Default App Remover .

Windows 10 Default App Remover can uninstall the default Windows 10 or 11 applications. On top of that, its publisher has provided the source code for the application.

To de-crap your computer, simply install the software and run it. You then just click on the app you want to remove. For example, if Solitaire gets on your nerves, just left-click on it in the user interface, and you'll receive a prompt asking whether you intend on removing the app. Confirming removes the application. The amazing thing is that 10AppsManager allows users to reinstall removed software from the same interface. It's amazing.

The app received clean reports from Norton Safeweb and VirusTotal so it is likely not a source of malware.

Download: Windows 10 Default App Remover for Windows (Free)

15. Browser Extensions for Faster Page Loads

My favorite speed hack is improving your browser's performance through extensions.

User-Agent Switcher Browser Extension

A mobile user agent lets a server know whether your computer is a fast desktop or a slow mobile device. If a server knows you're using a desktop or laptop, it typically loads more advertising code and visual effects. In other words, you get the slower version of a webpage.

By using a mobile user agent, you can tell the website to give you a faster-loading version of its page. This trick doesn't work on all websites but it generally improves performance. Unfortunately, it can sometimes cause strange behavior on some websites.

Download : User-Agent Switcher for Chrome or Edge Browsers (Free)

What's the Best Windows Speed Hack?

There are a lot of tweaks to speed up Windows 10 and 11. For those who want the fastest fix, try the in-place repair. If you don't mind losing some of your installed programs, a factory reset is another great option. But that's because, for most people, third-party software causes the greatest amount of slowdown. And removing or optimizing that software generally resolves most performance issues.

• Windows Update

How to Create Shortcut on Desktop Windows 10: Step-by-Step Guide

Creating a shortcut on your Windows 10 desktop is a simple process that helps you access programs, files, or websites quickly. In a few steps, you can create a shortcut icon that will appear on your desktop, making it easier to find and use your favorite tools. Follow the steps below to streamline your workflow.

How to Create a Shortcut on Desktop Windows 10

Creating a shortcut on your Windows 10 desktop can save you time and hassle. The following steps will guide you through the process, from locating the item you want to shortcut to placing it on your desktop.

Step 1: Right-click on Desktop

Right-click on an empty space on your desktop to open a context menu.

By right-clicking, you’ll see various options pop up. This menu is the gateway to creating your shortcut.

Step 2: Select "New" and then "Shortcut"

From the context menu, hover over "New" and then click "Shortcut."

The "New" option will reveal several choices, but we’re interested in creating a new shortcut, so go ahead and click on "Shortcut."

Step 3: Browse or Type the Location

In the Create Shortcut window, type the location of the item or click "Browse" to find it.

You can directly type the path if you know it, or use the "Browse" button to navigate to the file, application, or folder you want to shortcut.

Step 4: Click "Next"

After entering the location, click the "Next" button.

Clicking "Next" confirms the location and brings you to the next step, where you can name your shortcut.

Step 5: Name Your Shortcut

Type a name for your shortcut in the box provided.

Choose something descriptive, so you can easily recognize the shortcut. It could be the program’s name or the file’s title.

Step 6: Click "Finish"

Click the "Finish" button to complete the process.

Once you click "Finish," your new shortcut will appear on the desktop, ready for use.

After completing these steps, the shortcut will appear on your desktop. You can double-click it to open the associated program, file, or folder instantly.

Tips for Creating Shortcuts on Desktop Windows 10

• Use Descriptive Names : Always name your shortcuts clearly to avoid confusion.
• Organize Your Desktop : Keep your shortcuts in a tidy arrangement to find them quickly.
• Use Icons : Customize your shortcut icons for quick visual identification.
• Delete Unused Shortcuts : Regularly remove shortcuts you no longer need to keep your desktop clutter-free.
• Create Folder Shortcuts : You can also create shortcuts for folders you frequently access.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can i create a shortcut for a website.

Yes, you can. Right-click on your desktop, follow the steps, and paste the website’s URL in the location field.

How do I delete a shortcut?

Right-click the shortcut icon and select "Delete." It will not remove the original file or program.

Can I change the icon of a shortcut?

Yes, right-click the shortcut, select "Properties," go to the "Shortcut" tab, and click "Change Icon."

Is there a limit to the number of shortcuts I can create?

There is no specific limit, but having too many can clutter your desktop and make it less efficient.

Can I create shortcuts for system settings?

Yes, you can create shortcuts for various system settings by entering specific commands in the location field.

Summary of Steps

• Right-click on Desktop
• Select "New" and then "Shortcut"
• Browse or Type the Location
• Click "Next"
• Name Your Shortcut
• Click "Finish"

Creating a shortcut on your Windows 10 desktop is an easy and efficient way to streamline your daily tasks. By following the steps outlined, you can have quick access to your most-used programs, files, or websites with just a double-click. Remember, keeping your shortcuts organized and using descriptive names will make your desktop a more effective workspace.

If you’re interested in maximizing your productivity further, consider exploring other Windows 10 features such as pinned taskbar items or virtual desktops. Taking the time to set up these shortcuts can save you valuable minutes every day, making your computer usage smoother and more enjoyable. So, why wait? Go ahead and start creating those shortcuts now!

Kermit Matthews is a freelance writer based in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania with more than a decade of experience writing technology guides. He has a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Computer Science and has spent much of his professional career in IT management.

He specializes in writing content about iPhones, Android devices, Microsoft Office, and many other popular applications and devices.

Read his full bio here .

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