Free Resume Templates: The Ultimate Collection for 2024
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Want to choose the best resume format? First, you must understand the differences between the three main types. See examples of various resume formats and make an informed choice.
Recruiters don’t read resumes carefully. They skim them for the most relevant information. So, how do you make them love your resume in mere seconds? Through elegant and professional resume formatting!
Let me show you an easy way to choose the best resume format for you.
In this guide, you’ll get:
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The three main resume formats to choose from are:
Most of the time, you’ll want to use the reverse-chronological resume format. It’s regarded as the best format for a resume and is preferred by most recruiters and HR experts.
But “most of the time” doesn’t mean “always,” and choosing the appropriate resume format is yours to make. We made a handy decision tree to help you with this process:
You can also approach choosing a resume format from a slightly different perspective. Since the reverse-chronological style is the best one, let’s start from it and work backward to determine if it's the best choice. If you answer “Yes” to all the following questions, you should use the reverse chronological format.
If you answered “Yes” to all of these questions, you’re clear to use the best resume format. We recommend you also use the reverse-chronological resume if you have no work experience at all. In that case, focus on your academic and extracurricular achievements rather than work experience.
If there were any “No” answers, see the next set of questions:
A functional resume format might be your best choice if you answered “Yes” to the above questions. If there were any “No” answers, consider using a combination format instead.
Now, I’ll show you all the details about all of these resume formats:
The reverse-chronological resume format is the most common and widely accepted resume style. In this format, you present your work experience in reverse chronological order, which means your most recent job is listed first, and you work backwards through your employment history.
This format is like telling your professional story in a timeline that starts with the present and goes back in time. The main advantage is its familiarity to employers and hiring managers. Recruiters encounter it most frequently, so they know exactly where to find the information they need. This format excels at highlighting your career progression and growth over time.
Here’s what a reverse-chronological resume format looks like:
The structure of a reverse chronological resume is as follows:
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And here are some great tips to make your reverse-chronological resume stand out:
Christopher Panattoni
Bartender
281-951-6550
christopher.panattoni@contact.com
linkedin.com/in/panattonichris
Summary
Dedicated bartender with over 5 years of experience creating memorable experiences for patrons in high-paced establishments. Managed busy bars with an average nightly volume of 200 customers, consistently exceeding sales targets. Adept at fostering a positive and energetic atmosphere, contributing to a 25% increase in repeat business. Seeking to bring proven mixology skills and a commitment to excellence to a dynamic team at Spirited Haven.
Experience
Bartender
Cheers & Chill Lounge
Houston, TX
August 2019–Present
Bartender
Sip & Savor Bar
Houston, TX
May 2017–August 2019
Education
Willowridge High School, Houston, TX
Graduated in 2014
Skills
Languages
Sophia Rodriguez
Junior Data Analyst
Phone: (555) 123-4567
Email: sophia.rodriguez@email.com
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/sophiarodriguez
Objective
Analytical and detail-oriented Junior Data Analyst with a solid statistical analysis and data interpretation foundation. Proficient in extracting, cleaning, and transforming data to provide valuable insights for informed decision-making. Possesses strong skills in data visualization and a commitment to accuracy. Eager to contribute to forecasting and analysis projects at Just Data.
Education
Bachelor of Science in Data Science
University of Maine, Orono, ME
September 2019–May 2023
Experience
Data Analyst Intern
ABC Tech Solutions, Orono, ME
January 2023–Current
Research Assistant
Department of Statistics, University of Maine, Orono, ME
September 2020 – May 2022
Skills
Certifications
Expert Hint: If you’re looking for a job outside the USA or one in a scholarly field, you might have to apply using different documents. If that’s the case, check out our guides on how to write a CV and how to create a biodata format.
The functional resume format focuses on your transferrable skills rather than your work history. Also known as a skill-based resume format, it's handy when you have employment gaps, are changing careers, or have a diverse set of skills that may not be evident in a chronological list.
In this type of resume, your work history is mentioned but in a condensed way. It emphasizes the skills used or acquired in each position rather than the timeline itself. The functional format can be particularly beneficial for people with non-linear career paths or those who have taken career breaks, such as parents returning to the workforce.
Here’s what a functional resume format looks like:
The structure of a functional resume is formatted this way:
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If you’re considering using the functional resume format, use these amazing tips to enhance your resume:
John Anderson
Accountant
(123) 456-7890
john.anderson@email.com
linkedin.com/in/johnanderson
Resume Summary
Results-driven accountant with extensive experience in financial management and compliance. Proven track record of optimizing accounting processes for efficiency and accuracy. Seeking to contribute expertise to Financial Dynamics Inc. Reduced financial discrepancies by 15% through meticulous auditing at XYZ Corporation. Managed end-to-end financial reporting for 10+ projects, ensuring compliance with regulatory standards.
Skills Summary
Financial Management
Audit and Compliance
Project Accounting
Work History
Senior Accountant
XYZ Corporation, Belforest, AL
March 2018–Present
Staff Accountant
ABC Ltd., Mobile, AL
June 2015–February 2017
Education
Bachelor of Science in Accounting
University of South Alabama, Mobile, AL
September 2011–June 2015
GPA: 3.7
Skills
Certification
Interests
Emily Carter
Creative Event Planner
(123) 456-7890
emily.carter@email.com
linkedin.com/in/emilycarterevents
Resume Summary
Dynamic event planner with a passion for creating memorable experiences. Proven success in managing events from concept to execution. Seeking a challenging role at Dream Events Inc. Orchestrated 15+ successful events, exceeding client expectations. Implemented efficient vendor management strategies, reducing event costs by 10%.
Skills Summary
Event Coordination
Client Relations
Budget Management
Work History
Senior Event Planner
Elite Events Management, Lafayette, LA
March 2020–Present
Event Coordinator
Perfect Occasions, Lakeshore, LA
June 2015–February 2018
Education
Bachelor of Arts in Event Management
University of Louisiana, Monroe, LA
Graduated June 2020
GPA: 3.8
Publications
Skills
Expert Hint: While writing, keep an eye out for these common resume mistakes. Don’t let them mess up the content and formatting of your resume.
The combination resume format is often called the hybrid or chrono-functional resume. It blends elements of both previously mentioned resume formats. This format allows candidates to highlight their skills and qualifications from the start while showcasing a detailed work history.
The combination format benefits candidates with diverse skills and experience who want to emphasize their qualifications for a specific job, are changing career paths, or have gaps in employment.
A finished combination resume will look like this:
The layout of a hybrid resume is as follows:
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If you’re set on using this resume format, here are some tips to make it work:
Randy A. Mitchell
Senior Software Engineer
randy.mitchell@email.com
555-789-1234
linkedin.com/in/randymitchell
Professional Profile
Results-driven Senior Software Engineer with over 8 years of experience in full-stack software development. Proficient in designing, implementing, testing, and maintaining complex systems. Led a cross-functional team in the development of a scalable e-commerce platform at TechSolutions, resulting in a 30% increase in sales and improved user experience. Excited to contribute technical expertise and leadership skills to elevate software engineering initiatives at TechnoGen.
Skills Summary
Software Development
Technical Leadership
Full-Stack Proficiency
Additional Skills
Work Experience
Senior Software Engineer
TechSolutions, Sacramento, CA
July 2018–Present
Software Engineer
CodeCrafters, Eugene, OR
January 2014–July 2018
Education
Bachelor of Science in Computer Science
University of Oregon, Eugene, OR
September 2010–June 2014
Certifications
Linda Reynolds
Construction Project Manager
linda.reynolds@email.com
555-987-6543
linkedin.com/in/lindareynolds
Professional Profile
Dedicated Construction Project Manager with over 10 years of experience overseeing complex construction projects. Adept at managing project timelines, budgets, and resources while ensuring high-quality workmanship. Led to the successful completion of a major commercial development project, resulting in a 15% increase in client satisfaction. Eager to bring strong leadership and project management skills to advance construction initiatives at Dynamic Builders.
Skills Summary
Project Management
Team Leadership
Quality Assurance
Construction Expertise
Additional Skills
Work Experience
Construction Project Manager
Dynamic Builders, Boulder City, NV
July 2016–Present
Project Manager
Solid Structures, Reno, NV
January 2013–June 2016
Education
Bachelor of Science in Construction Management
University of Nevada, Reno, NV
September 2006–June 2010
Expert Hint: A summary of qualifications pairs well with a resume headline. Try it out to instantly draw attention to your application.
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The reverse-chronological resume format is the best choice for most candidates. This resume format puts your most recent work experiences first. Recruiters also prefer it because it's easy to read. This format shows how your career has moved forward, highlighting your skills and experience.
Also, the recruiters’ perceptions of the applicant’s academic qualifications, work experience, and extracurricular activities were critical in determining their decisions. And all of these resume sections can be found in a reverse-chronological resume.
Expert Hint: The perfect resume needs to be accompanied by an equally perfect cover letter. Since cover letters are necessary for most jobs, learn how to write a cover letter and unlock your job application’s full potential.
Outside the specific characteristics of each of the mentioned resume formats, there are general formatting rules that are pretty much universal:
Seems like a lot of points to remember. Fortunately, you can help yourself by using pre-formatted resume templates.
Here are a few resume format examples. Our online resume builder formats the templates for you, so you can focus on writing great descriptions of your experience.
Cubic is a modern resume format designed for confident professionals who aren’t afraid to showcase their achievements. It’s neat, organized, and can hold a ton of information without looking crowded or overwhelming.
Modern uses subtle color accents to guide the reader’s eye straight to the key sections. This is what a great resume looks like. It's perfect for creative and professional, office based fields. No wonder this professional resume format is so popular among our users!
You just can’t go wrong with Nanica! This simple resume format is like a Zen garden: it creates a minimalist, lightweight look with lots of white space. This is one of the best resume formats for professionals who prefer sleek, distraction-free resumes.
If you want a simple resume template that oozes confidence and authority, try Squares. It’s the ideal resume format for business jobs because it gives your resume a calm yet assertive look. As a nice bonus, you also get a personal logo with your initials.
Some things never go out of style. The Vintage resume template is one of them—this professional resume format is as timeless as a power suit. It relies on subtle accents to create structure and highlight what’s important.
Double your impact with a matching resume and cover letter combo. Use our cover letter generator and make your application documents pop out.
Want to try a different look? There's 21 more. A single click will give your document a total makeover. Pick a cover letter template here.
Here’s a recap of what is the best resume format:
At ResumeLab, quality is at the crux of our values, supporting our commitment to delivering top-notch career resources. The editorial team of career experts carefully reviews every article in accordance with editorial guidelines, ensuring the high quality and reliability of our content. We actively conduct original research, shedding light on the job market's intricacies and earning recognition from numerous influential news outlets. Our dedication to delivering expert career advice attracts millions of readers to our blog each year.
An ATS-friendly resume format is compatible with Applicant Tracking Systems software. This resume layout ensures that your application can be easily parsed by ATS. Things like images and infographics drastically reduce ATS compliance, while using resume keywords increases your chances.
The reverse-chronological resume format is the most ATS-friendly. Its clear structure, focusing on work history and experience, aligns well with ATS systems. Make sure to use standard resume fonts, section headings, and bullet points for optimal ATS compatibility.
A reverse-chronological resume is the best choice when writing a resume without experience. It highlights your relevant experience, even if it's limited. This can include internships, part-time jobs, and volunteer work. And if you have zero experience, you can allow your education section and bonus resume sections to be your selling point.
Employers typically prefer the reverse-chronological resume format. It's the most common and familiar format, making it easy for recruiters to find the information they need. It also allows them to see your career progression, the relevance of your experience, and how up-to-date your skills are.
Although tempting, many creative resume formats are overdesigned. This makes a lot of them confusing for both ATS scans and human recruiters. But if you’re applying for a job in the creative field, you may opt for an unorthodox resume design, such as an infographic resume.
Yes, a simple resume format is often the best choice. It offers a clean and easy-to-read layout, which can make a positive impression. This format is particularly suitable for those in traditional industries or roles, where a straightforward and professional appearance is preferred.
A resume template and a resume format are related but not the same. A resume format refers to the overall structure and organization of your resume. Meanwhile, a blank resume template is a pre-designed document to help you create a resume in a specific format more easily.
The reverse-chronological format is best for a student's resume. Just put the education section of your resume above the work experience section. But if you’re applying for an academic position or writing a grad school resume, forget what you’ve just read. Instead, go with an academic CV rather than a job resume.
If you want to make a resume from scratch without relying on resume templates for Word or resume templates for Google Docs, these are the resume formatting rules to follow:
The best resume format for freshers is the reverse-chronological resume format, but with a few changes. Instead of using a resume summary, start with a resume objective. On top of that, put your education section above your work history section (if you have any work experience at all.)
The best resume format for remote workers is still the reverse-chronological format. To enhance it, consider emphasizing your remote work skills like self-motivation and communication skills. Remember to tailor your resume's content to showcase your ability to excel in a remote work environment.
The best things in life are free. That applies to free resume templates, too—browse our hand-picked free resume template collection and download your favorites straight away!
Your resume layout needs to be clean and scannable. Otherwise, recruiters will reject your resume in 7 seconds. Luckily, this guide will show you how to do it right.
You’ve just come across a modern resume template treasure trove. Now, take your time, look around, pick the modern resume you like most, and make a job-winning resume.