How to Make a Resume — The Complete 2026 Guide
Not sure how to make a resume that gets noticed? This comprehensive guide walks you through every step — from choosing the right format to writing bullet points that impress recruiters. Plus, use our AI resume builder to speed up the entire process.
How to Make a Resume in 10 Steps
Follow this proven process to create a resume that passes ATS systems and impresses hiring managers. Each step includes actionable tips and examples.
Choose the Right Resume Format
Before you write a single word, decide on your format. The chronological format (most recent job first) works for 80% of job seekers. Use a functional format if you're changing careers or have gaps. The combination format blends both for maximum flexibility.
Add Your Contact Information
Place your name, phone number, professional email, LinkedIn URL, and city/state at the top. Skip your full address for privacy. Make sure your email is professional — no "coolguy99" addresses.
Alex Johnson
San Francisco, CA • (555) 123-4567 • alex.johnson@email.com • linkedin.com/in/alexjohnson
Write a Compelling Professional Summary
This 2–4 sentence paragraph sits at the top and summarizes your value proposition. Mention your years of experience, key skills, and what you're looking for. Tailor it to each job application.
"Results-driven software engineer with 5+ years of experience building scalable web applications. Proficient in React, Node.js, and cloud architecture. Seeking to leverage technical expertise and leadership skills to drive innovation at a growth-stage startup."
List Your Work Experience
For each role, include: job title, company name, location, dates, and 3–5 bullet points. Start each bullet with an action verb and include metrics whenever possible. Focus on achievements, not just responsibilities.
Strong: "Grew Instagram following from 5K to 45K in 8 months through targeted content strategy, increasing engagement by 120%."
Add Your Education
List your highest degree first: degree name, major, school, location, and graduation year. Include GPA only if it's 3.5+ and you're a recent graduate. Add relevant coursework, honors, or thesis titles if they strengthen your application.
Bachelor of Science in Computer Science
Stanford University, Stanford, CA • Graduated May 2021
Relevant Coursework: Machine Learning, Distributed Systems, Algorithms
Include a Skills Section
List 8–12 relevant hard and soft skills. Hard skills (technical abilities) should match the job description. Soft skills (communication, leadership) should be backed up by examples in your experience section.
Hard Skills: SEO, Google Analytics, Content Strategy, A/B Testing, HubSpot, Adobe Creative Suite
Soft Skills: Cross-functional Collaboration, Data-Driven Decision Making, Project Management
Add Certifications & Awards
Include relevant certifications, licenses, and awards that demonstrate expertise. List the certification name, issuing organization, and date. Remove expired or irrelevant certifications.
• AWS Certified Solutions Architect — Amazon Web Services, 2024
• Google Analytics Certification — Google, 2023
• Employee of the Year — TechCorp, 2022
Optimize for ATS Keywords
75% of resumes are rejected by ATS before a human sees them. Study the job description and naturally incorporate key terms into your resume. Don't keyword-stuff — use them in context within your experience and skills sections.
Proofread — Then Proofread Again
A single typo can cost you an interview. Read your resume aloud, use spell-check, and ask a friend to review. Check for consistent formatting, verb tenses (past for previous jobs, present for current), and accurate dates.
• Inconsistent date formats (Jan 2023 vs 01/2023)
• Mixed verb tenses
• Typos in company names or job titles
• Missing contact information
Download as PDF
Always submit your resume as a PDF unless the employer specifically requests a Word doc. PDFs preserve your formatting across all devices and operating systems. Name your file professionally: "FirstName-LastName-Resume.pdf"
Common Resume Mistakes to Avoid
Even experienced professionals make these errors. Avoid them to keep your resume in the "yes" pile.
Using a Generic Resume
Sending the same resume to every job is the #1 mistake. Tailor your summary, skills, and bullet points to match each job description. It takes 10 minutes and doubles your interview rate.
Including Irrelevant Information
Remove hobbies, age, marital status, and photo (unless required in your country). Focus on what makes you qualified for this specific role.
Using Passive Language
"Was responsible for" is weak. "Led," "built," "increased," and "launched" are strong. Start every bullet with an action verb that conveys impact.
Making It Too Long
One page for under 10 years of experience. Two pages max for senior roles. Recruiters scan, they don't read novels. Every word must earn its place.
Continue Your Job Search Journey
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