How to Make a Resume in 2026: Step-by-Step Guide with Examples

Making a resume in 2026 is easier than ever — but making a resume that gets results still requires knowing the right approach. With the right tools and methods, you can create a professional, ATS-optimized resume in under 30 minutes, even if you've never made one before.

This step-by-step guide covers everything from choosing your format to finalizing your document, with practical examples and tool recommendations for every stage of the process.

Before you start adding content, decide on the format that best showcases your experience. The format you choose depends on your career level and the story you want to tell.

The Three Main Resume Formats

For most job seekers, the chronological format is the safest choice — it's what recruiters expect and what ATS systems parse most accurately.

Before you start building, collect all the information you'll need. Having everything ready makes the process much faster and ensures you don't forget important details.

If you're targeting a specific role, review the job description and highlight:

• Required skills — These must appear on your resume
• Preferred qualifications — Include if you have them
• Action verbs — Mirror their language when describing your experience
• Key responsibilities — Emphasize similar accomplishments

This analysis ensures your resume speaks directly to what the employer wants.

You have several options for actually creating your resume. Each has pros and cons:

Option A: AI-Powered Resume Builders (Recommended)

Modern AI resume builders like GetQuickResume offer significant advantages:

• ATS-optimized templates — Tested to pass applicant tracking systems
• Content suggestions — AI helps phrase your experience professionally
• Formatting handled automatically — No design skills needed
• Real-time feedback — Know immediately if something's missing
• Multiple formats — Download as PDF, Word, or plain text

Option B: Word Processors (Google Docs, Microsoft Word)

Traditional but requires more effort:

• Pros: Full control over every detail, widely accessible
• Cons: Formatting can break, harder to ensure ATS compatibility, time-consuming

Option C: Professional Resume Writers

Best for executives or complex career situations:

• Pros: Expert writing, strategic positioning, saves your time
• Cons: Expensive ($200-$1,000+), requires multiple revisions

Now it's time to actually create your content. Follow this order for the best workflow:

Keep it simple and professional:

• Name in a larger font (18-24pt)
• Phone and professional email on one line
• Location (city, state) — full address not necessary
• LinkedIn URL if it's current and professional

Write 3-4 sentences that capture who you are and what you offer. This should be specific and achievement-oriented, not generic.

See our detailed guide on how to write effective resume content for professional summary formulas and examples.

For each position, include:

• Job title, Company, Location — Clear and prominent
• Dates — Month/Year to Month/Year format
• 3-5 achievement bullets — Results-focused, quantified where possible

If you're using GetQuickResume, the AI can help transform basic job descriptions into compelling achievement statements automatically.

List 8-12 relevant skills, prioritizing those mentioned in the job description. Categorize as technical vs. soft skills for clarity.

Include degree, institution, location, and graduation year. Add GPA only if it's impressive (3.5+) and you're within 3 years of graduation.

Read more about when to include your GPA on a resume for detailed guidance.

Once your content is complete, ensure proper formatting and save in the right formats.

Formatting Best Practices

• Font: Clean, professional fonts like Arial, Calibri, or Georgia at 10-12pt
• Margins: 0.5 to 1 inch on all sides
• Length: 1 page for under 10 years experience, 2 pages max for senior professionals
• White space: Don't overcrowd — breathing room improves readability
• Consistency: Same formatting for dates, bullet points, and spacing throughout

File Formats to Save

Before sending your resume anywhere, complete this final checklist:

Use our free ATS resume checker to verify your resume will pass automated screening before you apply.

Making a professional resume doesn't have to be complicated or expensive. With the right approach and tools, you can create a compelling document that opens doors to new opportunities.

Ready to make your resume? GetQuickResume's AI-powered platform guides you through every step, from choosing your format to writing compelling content. No design skills required — just answer a few questions and get a professional, ATS-optimized resume in minutes. Start building your resume free.