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How Do I Write a Resume?
3. Format
You have many options in formatting your resume. Choose a design that best fits your personality and the information you want to include as well as the field to which you plan to apply (e.g. a more conservative format for business or a more creative one for arts). There are several different formats for resumes. The most common format is chronological. There are a few essential guidelines that apply to both resume types.
General Formatting Guidelines:
- The standard length of an undergraduate resume is one page. Some
special circumstances require two pages, but one page is usually the
maximum.
- Put your full name, address, and telephone number at the top of the
resume. Do not write the word "resume" at the top. If you have a permanent
and school address, include both.
- Divide your resume information into clearly labeled categories. These
categories may include some or all of the following (not necessarily in
this order): Education, Experience, Honors and Awards, Activities, Skills,
Interests.
- Selectively CAPITALIZE, bold, italicize, bullet and
indent for emphasis, but do not over-do it or use all of these methods in
one resume. Stick to a few methods to keep it clean, simple, and
consistent.
- Use a professional-looking font such as: Times, Bookman, Helvetica,
Palatino.
- Laser print your resume on quality 8.5 X 11 inch bond paper that is
white, off-white, or possibly light gray.
The Chronological Format
The most common undergraduate format lists your accomplishments in reverse chronological order. This resume usually has an "education" category and an "experience" category, then other categories (such as activities, awards, etc.) as appropriate. The order matters; you should list your strongest, most relevant category first. If you have a good deal of experience in the field to which you are applying, consider listing "experience" first. Otherwise, lead off with "education."
The Functional Format
This type of resume emphasizes the skills you have acquired through work experience, education and activities. The resume is organized by areas of expertise, talents, or skills which relate to your employment goals. This format can be useful if you are applying for a job for which you have not had any direct experience, but for which you feel qualified. With the functional format, you list the skill area first, then provide two or three examples of positions where you have displayed those skills. Finish by including the name of the employer. Be advised that some employers prefer the chronological format.
Other skill areas you might include are: analytical skills; interpersonal skills; administration or management skills; leadership skills, research skills and writing skills.
After your skills section you must then list your work experiences in reverse chronological order, giving the dates, position titles and names of the organizations for which you have worked. Your "education" category may come before or after your list of skills.
Click here for an example.
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