Tailor before you tighten
Start from the job post. Mirror the role's real skills, tools, and outcomes, then remove anything that does not help that specific reader say yes.
Compact resume guide
Use this quick page before you download or edit a template. The goal is simple: show the right proof, in the right order, with no extra noise.
Start from the job post. Mirror the role's real skills, tools, and outcomes, then remove anything that does not help that specific reader say yes.
Use bullets that pair an action with a result: built, improved, reduced, launched, trained, supported, analyzed, or coordinated. Add numbers when they clarify scale.
Use clear section headings, consistent dates, short bullets, and generous spacing. One page is ideal for many early-career resumes, but two pages can work when the experience earns the space.
Use standard headings, job-matched keywords, and a clean DOCX or accepted file type. Avoid keyword stuffing, tables, graphics, and claims you cannot defend in an interview.
Give the most room to recent and relevant work. Older roles can be summarized with fewer bullets unless they prove a skill the target job needs.
Check spelling, links, phone number, email, tense, punctuation, and alignment. Ask another person to review it after your final edit.
These tips summarize guidance from career-writing resources that emphasize relevance, concise bullets, readable formatting, honest ATS keywords, and careful proofing.