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Quick answer
- Font: a clear, common font such as Arial, Calibri, Georgia or Times New Roman.
- Body size: about 11 to 12 pt. The UK National Careers Service says to use a clear font in size 11 or bigger.
- Headings: 12 to 14 pt, or bold body size.
- Your name: 14 to 20 pt.
- Margins: about 0.5 to 1 inch (1.3 to 2.5 cm).
Heading, name and margin sizes: common practice, not a rule.
Why plain fonts
Common fonts display the same on most computers and convert cleanly to PDF. Decorative fonts or icons in place of words can be hard to read for people and for software. See ATS-friendly resume.
Keep it consistent
Use one font family, the same date format, and the same bullet style throughout. Harvard's career center advises consistent spacing, bold and capitalization for emphasis.
Avoid
- Shrinking the font below 11 pt to fit one page. Cut content instead; see resume length.
- Light grey text, colored backgrounds, text inside images.
Related: Resume format · ATS-friendly resume · How to write a resume. Check your resume with the free ATS resume checker.
Sources
- National Careers Service (UK): CV sections
- Harvard Mignone Center for Career Success: Guide to creating a strong resume
Advice differs by employer and country. Follow the job ad when it asks for something specific.
FAQ
What is the best font for a resume?
A clear, common font like Arial, Calibri, Georgia or Times New Roman.
What font size should a resume be?
About 11 to 12 pt for body text. The UK National Careers Service says 11 or bigger.
Can I use two fonts?
You can, but one font family is simpler and looks consistent.
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