Best Resume Font Size and Format

A resume font should make the document easier to read. It should not call attention to itself.

Small text, cramped spacing, and decorative fonts can make a good resume harder to scan. Choose a clean font, use consistent spacing, and let the content do the work.

Keep the Layout Easy to Read

CareerOneStop's resume formatting guide recommends basic fonts such as Calibri, Arial, Georgia, Garamond, or Times New Roman, with body text around 10 to 12 points. Its formatting page also recommends standard headings and consistent spacing.

Use that as your baseline before you add any style.

Safe and Standard Fonts

Pick a font most readers and systems can handle. Avoid novelty fonts, script fonts, and anything that looks good only at a large size.

One font family is usually enough. Use bold, size, and spacing to create structure.

Set a Clear Size Hierarchy

Font size should guide the eye without making the page feel crowded.

• Body text: Use 10 to 12 point size.
• Section headings: Use a slightly larger size or bold style.
• Your name: Make it larger than the rest of the text, but keep it professional.

Do not shrink text until it becomes hard to read. Cut weaker content before you make the page uncomfortable.

Format in a Simple Order

Format after the content is mostly done. That helps you avoid uneven spacing and random font changes.

1. Draft the content: Write your summary, experience, education, and skills first.
2. Apply one font: Select the full document and set the main font.
3. Set body size: Use a readable size for the main text.
4. Style headings: Use the same heading style for every section.
5. Check spacing: Make sure bullets, dates, and headings line up consistently.

Clean formatting makes the resume feel easier to trust. Keep the design quiet, readable, and consistent.

For a related Working Nomads article, read references on your remote resume and when to share them practical advice before you decide your next step.

What to Read Next

Read what is a summary of qualifications on a resume if you want a related next step on resume writing.
Use why a one-page remote resume usually works best practical advice when you need more context before your next decision.