Issued July 2022/ Updated March 2026

Resume Checklist

Understanding more about what goes on a resume and what should be left out:

  • If you're a student or entry-level applicant, it is recommended that you use a one-page resume. For individuals who have an extensive work history of over 10-15 years, a resume that extends to two pages may be more suitable, especially if applying to an executive role.

    Anytime you consider extending your resume over one page, you want to ensure that the remaining pages contain relevant information that can help you improve your employability.

  • A resume outlines your relevant skills and experience, which can help you demonstrate why you are a good fit for an open role, which directly helps employers make hiring decisions and help you get your first interview.

    Overall, your resume communicates your qualifications and brand—an understanding of who you are and what makes you different—to employers and recruiters.

  • The best resume format in 2024 is the reverse-chronological resume format. This format involves listing your resume information (i.e., your work experience and education), starting with the most recent one and going backward through relevant jobs, degrees, or qualifications.

  • If you aren't comfortable with writing and need additional assistance with understanding which achievements in your career to highlight and which skills and qualifications to focus on for a position to which you are applying, hiring a professional resume writer to write and edit your resume will give you a professional polish and put you one step ahead of most resumes a hiring manager will look at on a given day.

  • The CV presents a full history of your academic credentials, so the length of the document is variable. In contrast, a resume presents a concise picture of your skills, qualifications, and educational background for a specific position, so length tends to be shorter and dictated by years of experience (generally 1-2 pages)

    Resume

    - Typically tailored to a specific job listing

    -Showcases competencies: work history, professional and personal accomplishments, etc

    - Typically concise (1-2 pages)

    CV

    - Typically used for academic, federal, scientific, and medical jobs

    - Showcases credentials: certifications, research, affiliations, etc.

    - Typically detailed (several pages long)

What does a standard resume look like?

A resume with annotations providing tips on how to write a professional resume, including advice on experience, keywords, work history, and additional tips for different sections.

First page of a standard resume:

Sample resume with annotations and tips for creating a professional document, including sections for education, certifications, memberships, and contact information.

Second page of a standard resume:

Promotional graphic with black starry background, advertising free customizable resume templates. Features a laptop with a resume document, hand pointing, and highlighted text that says 'CLICK HERE FOR ADOBE TEMPLATES'.
A man in a blue suit holding a briefcase stands alone in the center, surrounded by a large diverse crowd forming a shape resembling a question mark.

Looking to create a standout resume?

With Adobe’s array of options, you can cater to your specific needs and grab attention. Start building your winning resume now using Adobe’s customizable templates.

Click here to explore Adobe’s free resume templates.

Graphic advertisement encouraging resume help with a clipboard labeled 'Resume' and a speech bubble with 'Help.' Text says 'Need help with your resume? Click here.'