When it comes to creating a professional resume, one of the most important decisions you’ll make is choosing the right font size.
Your resume is your chance to make a first impression on a potential employer, and the font size you choose can play a big role in how you’re perceived.
In this guide , I’ll discuss why font size matters, what the standard font sizes for resumes are, and how to choose the right font size for your resume.
Table of Contents
What Font Size Should a Resume Be?
The font size for your resume should be between 10 and 12 points. This is a readable size that won’t strain the eyes of the reader.
Also, using a font size that is too small (below 10 points) can make your resume appear cluttered while using a font size that is too large (above 12 points) can make it difficult to fit all of your information onto one page.
Stick with a font size between 10 and 12 points to ensure that your resume looks professional and is easy to read.
Why is Font Size Important on a Resume?
When it comes to resumes, font size matters for a few reasons.
First, it can impact readability. If your font size is too small, it can be difficult for a potential employer to read your resume.
Second, font size can affect the impression you make on a potential employer.
If your font is too small, it can make it look like you’re trying to cram too much information onto your resume.
On the other hand, if your font size is too large, it can make it look like you’re trying to fill space.
Finally, font size can affect the length of your resume. If you’re trying to keep your resume to one page, you may need to adjust your font size to fit everything in.
What is the Standard Font Size for a Resume?
The most common font sizes for resumes are 10-12 point.
While there’s no hard and fast rule about which size is best, 10-12 point fonts tend to be the most readable.
If you’re unsure which size to use, the 11-point font is a good middle ground.
That being said, there are advantages and disadvantages to different font sizes.
Here are some things to consider when choosing a font size:
Small Fonts (9-10 Points)
Small fonts can help you fit more information into your resume.
However, they can also make your resume hard to read, especially if the potential employer has poor eyesight.
Use small fonts with caution, and only if you’re confident that your resume is still readable.
Medium Fonts (11-12 Points)
Medium fonts are the most common font sizes used on resumes.
They strike a good balance between readability and space efficiency.
If you’re unsure which font size to use, 11-point font is a good default.
Large Fonts (14-16 Points)
Large fonts can be helpful if you’re trying to fill space on your resume.
However, they can also make your resume look unprofessional.
Use large fonts sparingly, and only if you’re confident that they’ll add to your resume’s overall look and feel.
Factors to Consider When Choosing the Font Size for Your Resume
When choosing a font size for your resume, there are a few factors to consider:
The Amount of Information You Need to Include
If you have a lot of information to include on your resume, you may need to use a smaller font size to fit everything in.
However, keep in mind that readability is key. If your font is too small, your resume may end up being hard to read.
Your Work Experience and Skills
If you’re a recent graduate or you don’t have much work experience, you may want to use a larger font size to help fill the space.
However, if you have a lot of work experience or skills to highlight, you may want to use a smaller font size to fit everything in.
The Font Style You Choose
Different fonts have different spacing and readability characteristics.
Some fonts, like Times New Roman, tend to be more compact, while others, like Arial, tend to be more spaced out.
When choosing a font size, consider the font you’ll be using and how it will impact the overall look and feel of your resume.
QUICK TIP: Impressing an employer with your resume isn’t enough. You need a professional cover letter to make you stand out and get you hired.
Other Tips for Formatting Your Resume
In addition to font size, there are a few other formatting tips to keep in mind when creating your resume:
Use a Readable Font
Choose a font that’s easy to read, like Times New Roman, Arial, or Calibri.
Avoid using decorative or script fonts, as they can be difficult to read and can make your resume look unprofessional.
Use Bold and Italics Sparingly
Bold and italics can help draw attention to important information but use them sparingly.
Too much bold or italic text can make your resume look cluttered and hard to read.
Use Bullet Points
Bullet points can help break up large blocks of text and make your resume easier to scan.
Use bullet points to highlight your accomplishments, skills, and job duties.
Keep Your Margins Consistent
Consistent margins can help make your resume look neat and organized.
Use a one-inch margin on all sides of your resume.
Use White Space Effectively
White space, or the space around your text, can help make your resume look more visually appealing.
Use white space to separate different sections of your resume and make it easier to read.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right font size and font type for your resume is an important decision that can impact how your potential employer perceives you.
While there’s no one-size-fits-all answer to what font size you should use, there are a few general guidelines you can follow.
Use a font size that’s easy to read, keep your margins consistent, and use white space effectively.
And don’t forget to proofread your resume for spelling and grammar errors before sending it off to potential employers.
FAQs
What is the best font size for a resume?
The best font size for a resume is between 10 and 12 points. This site is easy to read and won’t take up too much space on the page.
Can I use a smaller font size to fit more information on my resume?
While it may be tempting to use a smaller font size to fit more information on your resume, it’s not recommended. A font size smaller than 10 points can make your resume appear cluttered and difficult to read.
Should I use a larger font size to make my resume stand out?
Using a larger font size to make your resume stand out can have the opposite effect. A font size larger than 12 points can make your resume look unprofessional and can make it difficult to fit all of your information onto one page.
Can I use a different font size for different sections of my resume?
While you can use a slightly larger font size for headings or section titles, it’s best to keep the body text of your resume between 10 and 12 points for consistency and readability.
What font should I use for my resume?
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer to this question, but some good options include Times New Roman, Arial, and Calibri. Avoid using decorative or script fonts, as they can be difficult to read and can make your resume look unprofessional.
Meet Emma Oluwatobi, the career advisor who knows how to level up your job search game without breaking a sweat. With years of experience in the job/career advisory niche, Emma has helped countless job seekers land their dream jobs. While he’s not writing his next helpful piece, he’s sure busy playing video games.