Best Resume Format for 2025
Free downloadable templates and complete guides to help you choose the right resume format and land your dream job.
The 3 Main Resume Formats
Understanding the difference between resume formats is crucial for creating an effective resume that gets you noticed.
Chronological Format
Lists your work experience in reverse chronological order (most recent first). Best for candidates with consistent work history.
- ✓ Best for career progression
- ✓ Shows work history clearly
- ✓ Most common format
Functional Format
Emphasizes skills and abilities over work history. Ideal for career changers, recent graduates, or those with employment gaps.
- ✓ Highlights skills
- ✓ Good for career changes
- ✓ De-emphasizes gaps
Combination Format
Combines chronological work history with a skills section. Perfect for experienced professionals with strong skills.
- ✓ Best of both formats
- ✓ Shows skills + experience
- ✓ Versatile format
Expert Resume Formatting Tips
Landing your next role requires more than just listing your experience. It requires a strategic layout that passes through modern Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) and catches the eye of hiring managers.
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Use standard fonts and clean margins for maximum readability.
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Include industry-specific keywords to rank higher in ATS searches.
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Keep your resume to 1-2 pages depending on your career level.
Which Resume Format Is Right For You?
Use this guide to choose the best resume format for your situation.
Are you changing careers or have employment gaps?
Yes → Use Functional Format
No → Continue to next question
Do you have strong skills AND solid work experience?
Yes → Use Combination Format
Free Resume Templates
Download professional resume templates in Word, PDF, and Google Docs formats. All templates are ATS-friendly and ready to customize.
View All Templates →
Compare Resume Formats
Choose the right resume format for your situation
Chronological
Lists work history in reverse chronological order
Best for:
Consistent work history, career progression
Functional
Emphasizes skills over work history
Best for:
Career changers, recent graduates, employment gaps
Combination
Combines skills section with chronological work history
Best for:
Experienced professionals, technical roles