Resume Appearance Checklist

• Make sure that the resume is concise and easy to read.
• Use a consistent font throughout the resume.  Fonts such as Times, Optima, Helvetica, Courier, and Arial are professional in appearance and easy to read.  The text in the body of the resume should be 10-11 point.  Headings can be 12 point, with your name between 14 and 16 point.
• Use bold print to highlight each section or heading.  However, avoid excessive use of underline, italics, and bold. This adds unneeded emphasis and may make the information difficult to read. Margins should be set at 1" on all sides.  If you need additional space, reduce the top and bottom margins first.  All margins should never be smaller than .7 or .8".
• Always use high quality paper for resumes - at least 25% cotton.  
• Select a subdued color paper such as white, ivory, beige, or light gray. 
• Print the resume in black ink only and use a high quality text printer.
• Limit resume to one page, if an undergraduate. Often a second page is essential for extensive work and relevant details for the Master or PhD level student.  Be sure to place the most relevant experience on the first page. 
• Have someone else proofread for spelling and grammar for you.  Do not rely on spell-check to correct errors!