Resume Font Size: What Size Is Best For Your Resume?

Published on:
Whenyouwrite is reader supported. When you purchase through referral links on our site, we may earn a commission... Learn more
resume font size what size is best for your resume 266.png

Are you ready to take your resume to the next level? One key factor to consider is the font size of your document. Many job seekers overlook this detail, but the right font size can make a big difference in how your resume is perceived by potential employers.

In this article, we’ll explore the importance of font size in resumes and provide tips on how to choose the best size for your needs.

First, let’s consider why font size matters. When a hiring manager or recruiter receives a large stack of resumes, they may only have a few seconds to review each one. A font size that is too small can make your document difficult to read, while a font size that is too large can look unprofessional.

By choosing the right font size, you can ensure that your resume is easy to read and stands out from the competition. So, what is the standard font size for resumes and how can you choose the best size for your specific needs? Read on to find out.

Key Takeaways

  • The right font size is crucial for a resume’s perception by employers.
  • Serif fonts are ideal for printed materials, while sans-serif fonts are better for digital materials.
  • Use 14-16 font size for headings and subheadings and 10-12 font size for body text.
  • Other formatting techniques such as font pairing and white space improve readability and visual appeal.

Understand the Importance of Font Size in Resumes

You want to make sure that the font size on your resume is just right. Font legibility is one of the most important factors to consider in choosing the right font size for your resume.

If the font size is too small, it will be difficult for the reader to read and understand the information you’ve presented. On the other hand, if the font size is too big, it may take up too much space and make your resume look unprofessional.

Another important factor to consider is font style. Some fonts may appear smaller or larger than others, even if they’re the same size. It’s important to choose a font that’s easy to read, but also visually appealing.

Generally, Serif fonts like Times New Roman or Georgia are ideal for printed materials, while Sans-serif fonts like Arial or Verdana are better suited for digital materials.

Ultimately, choosing the right font size and style for your resume will help you stand out from the competition and make a great impression on potential employers.

Consider the Standard Font Size for Resumes

When creating your resume, it’s important to consider the standard font size for each section.

For headings and subheadings, a larger font size of 14-16 is recommended. For the body text, a font size of 10-12 is appropriate.

The right font size may vary depending on the type of resume you’re creating, so it’s essential to choose the size that best suits your needs.

Recommended Font Size for Different Sections of Your Resume

For each section of your resume, it’s important to use a font size that’s easily readable, such as a 10 or 11-point font. This ensures that recruiters can quickly scan through your resume and pick up on the most important information.

When it comes to your header font, it’s recommended to use a slightly larger font size, such as a 12-point font, to make your name stand out.

For the body font, stick to a 10 or 11-point font to ensure that your experience and qualifications are easily readable.

choosing the right font size in your resume
Choosing the font size in your resume

If you want to draw attention to certain sections of your resume, consider using bold or italics font. This can help highlight important information such as job titles, company names, or specific achievements. However, be sure to use these formatting options sparingly and strategically, as using too much bold or italics can make your resume look cluttered and difficult to read.

By following these font size guidelines, you can ensure that your resume is easy to read and visually appealing to recruiters, increasing your chances of landing the job you want.

The Right Font Size for Different Types of Resumes

Choosing the appropriate font size for different types of resumes can enhance their legibility and visual impact on potential employers. When it comes to creative resumes, using unique and creative fonts can add a touch of personality and originality to your application. However, it’s important to remember that readability shouldn’t be sacrificed for creativity.

When using creative fonts, it’s recommended to keep the font size between 10-12 points to ensure that the text is still legible.

For online applications, it’s important to consider that the font size may appear differently on different devices and screens. It’s recommended to use a font size between 10-12 points for online applications as well. This ensures that the text is clear and easy to read on a desktop computer, tablet, or mobile device. Additionally, sticking to a standard font such as Arial or Times New Roman can prevent any potential formatting issues when submitting your resume online.

Remember, the goal of your resume is to showcase your skills and experience, and the font size should enhance this, not detract from it.

Choose the Right Font Size for Your Resume

Optimal resume font size is like the perfect seasoning on a dish, just enough to enhance the flavor without overpowering it. You want your resume to be easy on the eyes and easy to read, so choosing the right font size is crucial.

When it comes to font size, there is no one-size-fits-all. You need to consider a few things, such as font style and readability, before deciding which font size is best for your resume.

To ensure your resume is easy to read, you should use a font size between 10-12 points. Anything smaller than 10 points can be hard to read, while anything larger than 12 points can make your resume look cluttered and unprofessional.

It’s also important to consider the font style you choose. Some fonts are naturally larger than others, so you may need to adjust the font size accordingly. Additionally, you should try to use a font that is easy to read, such as Times New Roman or Arial.

By choosing the right font size and style, you can ensure that your resume is visually appealing and easy to read, making it more likely to catch the eye of potential employers.

Use Other Formatting Techniques to Enhance Readability

To make your application stand out, it’s important to implement additional formatting techniques to improve the readability and visual appeal of your resume.

Font pairing is one such technique that can make your resume look more professional and polished. By selecting two complementary fonts, you can create a hierarchy of information that guides the reader’s eye through your document. For example, you could use a sans-serif font for headings and a serif font for body text.

This creates a contrast that makes it easier for the reader to distinguish between different sections of your resume.

a woman using different format in her resume
A woman using a different format in her resume

Another important technique to consider is the use of white space. This refers to the empty space around and between elements on your resume. By using white space effectively, you can create a sense of balance and clarity that makes your resume easier to read.

For example, you could add more white space around your headings to make them stand out, or use bullet points to break up dense paragraphs.

By incorporating these formatting techniques, you can make your resume more appealing to potential employers and increase your chances of getting hired.

Proofread and Edit Your Resume for Best Results

After putting in your best effort to create a standout job application, it’s crucial to thoroughly proofread and edit to ensure it’s error-free and polished.

Common mistakes can easily slip through the cracks if you’re not diligent in reviewing your resume. Make sure to read through your resume multiple times, looking for spelling and grammar errors, formatting inconsistencies, and any information that may be irrelevant or redundant.

Effective editing also involves ensuring that your resume is tailored to the specific job you’re applying for. Make sure to emphasize relevant skills and experiences that align with the job description, and remove any information that may not be applicable.

Additionally, consider having a friend or mentor review your resume to get a fresh perspective and catch any errors or areas that could be improved. Thoroughly editing and proofreading your resume can make all the difference in making a strong impression with potential employers.

Conclusion

Now that you understand the importance of font size in resumes, it’s time to choose the right one for your own document.

Remember, the standard font size for resumes is between 10 and 12 points, but you can adjust it depending on your personal preferences and the readability of your resume.

But before you submit your resume, don’t forget to proofread and edit it thoroughly. Use other formatting techniques such as bolding, bullet points, and headings to enhance readability and make your resume stand out.

As you finalize your resume, ask yourself: does it look professional and easy to read? Will it capture the attention of recruiters and hiring managers?

With the right font size and formatting, you can increase your chances of landing an interview and ultimately, your dream job.

So, what are you waiting for? Go ahead and make your resume shine!

Photo of author

AUTHOR

Jessica started off as an avid book reader. After reading one too many romance novels (really... is it ever really enough?), she decided to jump to the other side and started writing her own stories. She now shares what she has learned (the good and the not so good) here at When You Write, hoping she can inspire more up and coming wordsmiths to take the leap and share their own stories with the world.