best resume writing software

• Services & Software

Article updated on May 10, 2024 at 5:00 PM PDT

Best Resume Writing Services for 2024

Whether you need to build a new resume from scratch or want some professional advice, we’ve curated the best websites, apps and services to make you stand out.

Our Experts

• She received the Renau Writing Scholarship in 2016 from the University of Louisville's communication department.

• Apple software beta tester, "Helps make our computers and phones work!" - Zach's grandparents

CNET’s expert staff reviews and rates dozens of new products and services each month, building on more than a quarter century of expertise.

Even you've written a resume before, the job market is always changing and it can be hard to keep up with. Having a fresh resume ready when you aren't searching can make a huge difference if you need it in a pinch. New formats, new terms and making sure your experience is not only up to date but relevant to the job you're applying for can be stressful. Take the pressure off with the best resume writing services.

Some of what you'll need to include in your resume will depend on the industry you want to work in. While it can vary, employers will likely look at your education, work history and skills. We’ve combed through dozens of resume services looking at the most helpful features across a variety of needs. We looked especially closely at the number of custom templates, the amount of guidance the service offered, the ease of navigation and the robustness of the service's privacy policy. Each of these templates and professional writing services will help you create a complete resume that best reflects your skills and experience at an affordable price.

What’s the best resume builder website?

The best resume template and builder should give you a variety of options to customize your resume. Resume.com has many options and customization features that make it a useful tool for almost any candidate applying to any job. You can upload and edit an existing resume, customize an available template from its collection or let the service guide you through creating one from scratch. Resume.com also offers helpful guidance throughout your resume creation process, making sure you include and optimize all your content. Once you’re happy with your resume, you can download it for free in multiple formats.

Depending on where you’re at in the job application process, you might need more guidance than a template. These professional writing services will pair you with experienced writers and coaches to help you craft and perfect resumes, LinkedIn profiles, cover letters and more. These services include more personalized coaching and features, but they tend to be more expensive. We’ve collected a range of options for your budget and needs. Because your resume likely includes your contact information and some personal information, we've also included information about each service's privacy policy.

Best resume templates and builders of 2024

A well-constructed resume can help you stand out during a job search.

• Can create new resume or customize templates
• Many free features, guidance while writing
• Integrated with Indeed job search site
• Difficulty unsubscribing from paid services

Best free resume builder

Resume.com is a free resume writer offering dozens of templates for creating your resume or cover letter, as well as job boards and career advice. You have the option to upload and edit an existing resume, create a new one, or customize one of the sample resumes offered on the site. It's intuitive and easy to use, and it creates a professional-looking final product.

When starting from scratch, you'll go section by section, entering your education, employment history, hobbies and interests, professional skills, languages and references. Resume.com provides question prompts and tips for guidance, as well as career-specific examples you can add if you're struggling to find the right words. You can also choose to forgo any of these sections, rearrange sections and add custom ones depending on what you need. As you update and save each section, you can see how it will appear on the page on your resume preview to the right. You can also change the template, font style and size, or spacing at any time and see it update in real-time in the preview. 

Once you're done, you can download your new resume (in PDF, DocX, RTF or TXT format), create a custom URL or print it out. You also have the option to upload it to Indeed, a job search site that partners with Resume.com . The account you make will work with both Indeed and Resume.com . On the privacy side, the site does collect user information. If you want to delete your account, simply click your profile icon and then Account . Clicking Close My Account deletes your account and your data. If you didn't make an account, you can still choose Delete Guest Data . You can also request your data, and the company will send you an email with what it has collected. 

On the review site Trustpilot , Resume.com only has 38 reviews, but of those, 53% of them awarded the site four or five stars. Some negative reviews speak of difficulty unsubscribing from paid services, so read carefully as you use the free aspects of this service . 

• Guided help writing work experience descriptions
• Cover letter and CV help
• Easy to change layout and color styles
• Must pay to download resume

Best option for your first resume

Resume genius.

The website Resume Genius says you can "make a professional resume in 12 minutes." We tested it out and indeed had a solid first draft of an easy resume completed in about 10 minutes. Resume Genius takes you step-by-step through the process, prompting you with questions about your education and work experience to help you fill out the applicable sections. Resume Genius is particularly helpful because you can search for a job and see prewritten text for the description that you can add or edit. When finished, you can easily toggle between different templates to see what looks best for the final product. You also have the option to directly share your resume with Indeed or Resume Library. 

The site can also help you build cover letters and curriculum vitae. After you input all your information, you can choose different layout styles and colors. It's easy to move through, but you have to do it in order and fill in all the information before continuing. Resume Genius also offers examples of resumes, CVs and cover letters for specific jobs, as well as recommended jobs near you. You can download the resume you create for $3 (which starts a 14-day trial for Resume Genius Pro), or $8 (which kicks off a monthly subscription plan). If you fail to cancel your trial before the 14 days are up, you'll be billed $24 every four weeks, according to the site. 

On Trustpilot at the time of this publication, the site has 4.6 out of 5 stars based on more than 38,000 reviews. Note that if you register on the site, Resume Genius does collect personally identifiable information and may share it with third parties for advertising and other purposes, according to its privacy policy. The account deletion process is buried in the Terms of Service . According to Resume Genius, complete data erasure can take up to 30 days, but they may retain "certain information in accordance with privacy laws."

• Easy to customize
• Free downloads
• Optional paid extra assistance with Indeed professionals
• Unclear how to delete personal information

Easiest resume builder to use

Indeed resume builder.

It's free to create a resume or post your current resume on Indeed. If you're building a new one, you can choose between eight templates. The resume sections are highlighted and when you click, each section expands specific text fields. You can swap templates at any time without losing your work, as well. There are also options for toggling sections on and off, in addition to rearranging them. When you're finished, you can download a free PDF of your work history.

Indeed Resume Builder also offers optional professional advice for your new resume. After you download the resume you created, you'll get a prompt and can click Get Resume Help From a Real Person. Fill out a short questionnaire about what type of help you want and upload your resume (it's OK if you haven't built one). This service usually costs $89 unless you've applied to at least 10 jobs using your Indeed resume. According to Indeed, if you haven't received an interview request within 60 days of receiving your new resume, you can request a one-time rewrite. 

For $19, you can take a quiz and get feedback from a professional to get you started. You can also use Indeed's automated instant report system for free. The system returns quick tips to improve your resume. 

Indeed's privacy policy says that it does collect and share user data with third-party providers to connect job seekers with employers and improve services. According to Indeed's privacy policy, you can request an account or personal data deletion and request that your data not be shared while your account is active. CNET reached out to Indeed for more information and we'll update when we hear back.

• Guides resume creation
• Free resume downloads
• Paid tier offers interview advice and cover letter builder
• Have to pay for additional downloads

Most affordable paid resume builder

Cv engineer.

CV Engineer is an easy-to-use smartphone app that creates a professional-looking resume. With 16 templates to choose from, you can tap to enter information into all of the usual sections and add custom ones. When you tap on each section, you can tap through the bottom toolbar to get advice on what type of information to add, as well as view resume examples to show you how the section could look. 

CV Engineer lets you send or download your first completed resume for free, but upgrading to CV Engineer Pro for a one-time payment of $6 gives you access to unlimited downloads. A Scan My CV feature is also included, which can detect common mistakes and suggest improvements, such as places where you can add more information. The Pro version also offers interview advice and a cover letter builder. 

You can download CV Engineer from the Apple App Store and Google Play Store . CV Engineer does collect personal information and can share it with Google Play Services and Firebase Analytics, according to its privacy policy. The app is free to download and ad-free.

• Strong privacy policy
• Example resumes available
• Only one layout available
• Little guidance during creation

Best free iOS resume builder

Resume star 2: pro cv designer.

Resume Star 2 isn't the most visually stunning resume design app for iOS, but it gets the job done. To use, tap each section of the resume, fill in your information and it will fill in a traditional template (you only get one layout). The app offers some example resumes you can start with and edit as needed, including job-specific ones for a: cashier, dental hygienist, receptionist, waitress, mechanic and senior manager.

You can add or delete any sections you like without needing to hit save every time you add information, and you can see your resume update as you go. The autosave feature makes it easy to toggle quickly between the different sections as well. At the end, you'll have a basic resume ready to go. The app's interface doesn't offer as much guidance about how to write your resume or what types of information to include. If you need extra help, tap the information icon in the bottom left and choose the Resume Writing Guide. This will open up a crash course on resume writing in your mobile browser. It also includes a job search feature. 

The app collects payment via donations after you use the service -- you don’t have to pay if you don’t want to. The app connects to iCloud, and you can export your resume as a PDF to any location on your device(s). If you are happy with the service, you can choose the $6 "helped a bit" tier, a standard donation of $10, or the "really helped me" tier for $25. 

Resume Star 2 has a 4.8 out of 5 rating, and more than 1,800 ratings in the App Store . The first version, Resume Star: Pro CV Maker, which is the same except for the iCloud connection, had a 4.9-star rating and more than 16,000 reviews. The site does not collect personally identifiable information without user consent, which seems to make it one of the more secure options available.

• 42 templates to choose from
• Easily customizable
• Little to no guidance during creation

Best free Android resume writing service

Intelligentcv resume builder app.

Intelligent CV's Resume Builder App offers 42 resume templates and allows you to change font colors. Each resume section appears on a list, and you can move through sections in whichever order you choose, save and go on to another. You also have the option to add, delete or rearrange sections such as education, experience and skills. There’s a Help icon in each section for a little bit of extra guidance. Once you're finished, you can download your document for free as a PDF, which you can then save on your device or send via email or text. 

On the downside, the app is ad-supported and ads for other resume creators do pop up, which can get confusing. The app also offers less guidance than some of the other services, which means it's not a great option if you're new to resumes.

Resume Builder App has one of the strongest privacy policies of the bunch. The app does not collect personally identifiable information , though third-party services (including Google Play services and analytics firms) may collect information. The app has 4.6 out of 5 stars and more than 424,000 Google Play Store ratings and is free to download.

• Easy-to-use interface
• Inclusive premium package

Best range of professional tools

VisualCV has an easy-to-use interface that lets you build your resume in the way that works best for you. After signing up, you can upload an existing resume, begin with a prewritten sample or start entirely from scratch. You can use the basic editor to input information in a list form, the visual editor to edit directly on the resume and preview mode to see changes made on either version in real time. Revision history is also available. 

The free basic edition allows you to select from over a dozen professional templates to create, edit and download one resume as a PDF. You can also create one free cover letter and apply to jobs through its job search feature.

To download or share additional resumes, you’ll need to buy VisualCV Pro for $15 a month quarterly or $24 a month monthly. Upgrading unlocks more templates, unlimited creations, downloading, career tracking and the ability to build a personal resume website. The website URL goes through VisualCV but can be shared online. 

In terms of privacy, VisualCV's policy says that it does not sell, trade, rent or license personal information to third parties. As of publication, VisualCV has 4 out of 5 stars on Trustpilot but only 131 reviews.

Best professional resume writing services of 2024

Depending on where you’re at in the job application process, you might need more guidance than a template. These professional writing services will pair you with experienced writers and coaches to help you craft and perfect resumes, LinkedIn profiles, cover letters and more. 

As these services include more personalized coaching and features, they tend to be more expensive. We’ve collected a range of options depending on your budget and needs. Best professional resume writing services of 2024.

• Resume writing and career coaching
• Builds your resume from the ground up
• Quick turnaround
• More expensive options

A premium option for a tailored resume

Resumespice.

Suppose you're totally lost and are willing to invest several hundred dollars into your job search. In that case, ResumeSpice is a resume writing and career coach service created by recruiters that connects you with a "resume expert" to build your CV from scratch. 

Once you choose, you'll fill out a short questionnaire and schedule a phone consultation with a resume expert to discuss your experience, job search and career goals. The expert will take that information and turn around a personalized resume draft within two business days. You can review the draft and request any changes, and you'll get the final version in PDF and Word formats. 

An entry-level resume costs $479, a professional resume costs $589 and an executive resume costs $699. In addition to these packages, you can also add a cover letter, LinkedIn profile, interview coaching or other services to help you be more competitive in the job market.

• 60 day interview guarantee
• Industry-specific advice
• Variety of packages
• Limited non-resume add-ons

A 60-day interview guarantee

Resumewriters.com.

ResumeWriters.com offers a guarantee: If you don't get a job interview with a potential employer within two months of getting your new resume, they'll rewrite it for free. The service claims that in the 20 years and tens of thousands of resumes completed under this guarantee, it averages fewer than five requests for rewrites per year. 

To use the resume writing service, submit your current resume or career information on the site, and an experienced resume writer will contact you to assess your materials and plan out what you need. You'll get a first draft back within 72 hours and can work with the writer on revisions until you're satisfied with the result. 

ResumeWriters offers student, professional, executive and career-change resume services, as well as CV services for those conducting their job search in fields specific to the military, IT and research. The resume services cost $170 for students and $200 for the professional level, with a cover letter, one-on-one consultation and LinkedIn profile. The career change level ($250) is a comprehensive package that includes everything plus a post-interview follow-up letter, and the highest tier is the executive package that guarantees applicants its most experienced writers for $300.

• ATS screening
• Unlimited revisions
• Longer turnaround time (3-7 business days)

A fast pass through HR screening software

Zipjob’s professional resume writers optimize your resume to get through the applicant tracking system (ATS) software used by the majority of employers to automatically scan and sort resumes. An expert writes your resume and scans it through the ATS to ensure it will make it through to the hiring manager's desk. 

To use the service, upload your resume or fill out a form to start from scratch. You'll be matched with a professional resume writer who will work with you to improve it and will then scan the final product to make sure it passes through the screening algorithms. Depending on which package you choose, your resume will be ready in three to seven days. 

You can choose from three packages: Launch (resume writing and unlimited revisions for $139), Fast Track (adds a cover letter and a 60-day interview guarantee for $189) or Premium (adds a top resume writer, LinkedIn profile optimization, future resume updates and expedited delivery for $299).

• Career coaching
• Industry-specific feedback
• Ability to customize packages
• Longer turnaround time (3-5 business days)

An executive resume solution

Find my profession.

Find My Profession offers professional resume writing services as well as career coaching. Every resume gets reviewed by two different consultants. 

You'll find packages that include entry-level, professional, C-level and executive resume writer services, as well as federal. In each, you can choose a base, premium or VIP package depending on your needs. For example, the professional resume package starts at $595 for a resume compatible with automated systems. You can also add help with a cover letter for an additional $119 or a LinkedIn profile for $399. 

You'll get the first draft of your resume within three to five business days after you consult with a writer. Or, upgrade to a priority service for another $149 to get it within 48 hours.

How we tested resume sites and services

When we evaluated the different resume templates and builders, we looked at how each site or app allowed you to create new resumes, browse templates or upload and edit existing resumes. We also looked at how easy or hard it would be to customize different templates and sections, how much guidance was available, how user-friendly it was to navigate, plus reading and understanding each company’s privacy policies.

Some of our picks are free, some enlist the help of professional writers and some require a subscription or one-time payment. When it comes to premium or paid services, we evaluated how inclusive its packages were compared to basic or free versions. In many cases for the professional writing services, these paid tiers included more guidance and additional job search support like a cover letter and LinkedIn editing, suggested jobs to apply to and interview coaching.

Factors to consider when choosing a resume writing service

This was a key factor when compiling this list. Whether you’re looking for a free service to boost your current resume or interested in professional editing services, there’s something for everyone’s price range.

Ease of use

When looking at each website, we looked at how easy it was to navigate, browse templates and add, edit or remove different sections. We also considered whether you can download and share your resume for free and in what format.

Customization options

Customization options were essential, as everyone’s resume is going to look different. Having easy user control over your resume helps you create a resume that meets your industry’s standards and showcases your professional experiences.

Privacy policies

Privacy policies were the final important factor to consider, as many of these are websites and apps that can collect and store your personal information. All of the services and websites included on this list have decent privacy settings, and we noted which ones have exceptionally clear use cases and account deletion policies.

Resume writing FAQs

What is a resume builder.

A resume builder is a company that has a website or app that helps you create and customize your resume. You can use pre-existing templates or create your own from scratch.

What is a resume writing service?

A resume writing service is a company that pairs you with a coach or writer to work with you to create, perfect and tailor your resume, cover letters and other job application materials. These tend to be more inclusive packages and therefore more expensive than simple resume template websites.

What is the best resume format to use?

The best format for your resume is going to depend on the job you are applying to, along with your work experience. Resume templates can help you format and include all the necessary information like your education, work experience, skills and contact information.

Services and Software Guides

• Best iPhone VPN
• Best Free VPN
• Best Android VPN
• Best Mac VPN
• Best Mobile VPN
• Best VPN for Firestick
• Best VPN for Windows
• Fastest VPN
• Best Cheap VPN
• Best Password Manager
• Best Antivirus
• Best Identity Theft Protection
• Best LastPass Alternative
• Best Live TV Streaming Service
• Best Streaming Service
• Best Free TV Streaming Service
• Best Music Streaming Services
• Best Web Hosting
• Best Minecraft Server Hosting
• Best Website Builder
• Best Dating Sites
• Best Language Learning Apps
• Best Weather App
• Best Stargazing Apps
• Best Cloud Storage
• Best Resume Writing Services
• New Coverage on Operating Systems

Best Resume Writing Apps 2022

We find the best resume writing apps to get you applying for jobs fast.

There’s one app that sits at the top of our listings of the best resume writing apps, and that’s LiveCareer. As a web app, there are few compatibility concerns, and it’s full of useful features. There’s more to it than resume creation too - the app is well connected, and is capable of publishing your resume directly to job sites and social media. It’s hard to beat.

The web app is a huge trend in software at the moment, and resume writers have capitalised on it. Every single one of the best resume writing software packages we tested was a web app, with downloadable applications now looking rather out of date in comparison. It helps that resume writing software has a defined end, and therefore can limit the amount of tools and options it throws at the user rather than a general-purpose app such as a word processor or desktop publishing program. In this way, having the application run entirely in the browser makes a lot of sense, as it speeds up the process, and means you’ll be downloading completed files and applying for employment in no time. 

If you need more advice we have guides to the best online grammar checkers , and the best typing software to help you get faster.

1. LiveCareer: Best resume writing app overall

Why you can trust Top Ten Reviews Our expert reviewers spend hours testing and comparing products and services so you can choose the best for you. Find out more about how we test .

LiveCareer: My Perfect Resume

Our expert review:

Reasons to buy

Reasons to avoid.

More than just a resume-building site, LiveCareer is a fully featured web app that combines templates, connectivity with other sites, and cover letter creation to form one of the very best pieces of resume software available today.

The whole process of creating your resume is automated using a wizard and a limited number of templates. Answer its questions, inputting information where necessary, and you’ll receive tips as you work, pointing the way to a better resume.

If you’ve already got a resume, you can import it into LiveCareer and use the information already on it to speed along the creation of a new one. This is an uncommon feature among resume creation services, and certainly makes building a new, better, resume much faster. Also helping to speed things up are the helpful pre-written phrases the app can suggest if you’re stumped by how to describe some aspect of your career.

The interface is clean, and intuitive to use, and while we’ve seen larger numbers of templates elsewhere, the whole thing comes together to make LiveCareer the best we’ve found for making a striking resume.

2. Resume Genius: Best value resume app

Resume Genius

If you subscribe, you can download your resume in more useful formats, such as a Word document or PDF, or send it by fax from the site. You can also store unlimited resumes on the site, so you can tailor them for specific jobs, and you can get help to create a cover letter to accompany your resume. There’s even job search functionality, and a resume critique from an experienced career consultant.

A web app with a minimalist aesthetic, you pick a template, answer questions on your education and experience, and it generates your resume. It’s a very quick process, although it’s wise to get your thoughts in order before you begin, lining up in your mind the answers to questions about exactly when you left your last few jobs, and exactly what kind of college degree you have.

The finished result can be downloaded as a text file, but you’ll need to register with the site to do so. If you choose to register, and pay the subscription, however, a few more options open up, though you’ll need to pay for them. The $2.95 14-day trial is the best value of many we’ve seen, but it’s very difficult to get off the payment plan page and on to the dashboard page where the resume you’ve created is stored.

3. CakeResume: Best for social connectivity

A web app with a free version and an intuitive drag and drop interface, CakeResume makes the creation of your resume a straightforward process, and even hosts its own LinkedIn-like network for employers seeking new talent.

It’s a good-looking app that’s easy to navigate, and can link to your social media. If you already have a resume, you can upload it to the site and it will use it to populate the fields of your profile. When the profile is completed to the site’s liking, you can turn this into a new resume, editing the information as you go. Of course, you can always create a brand new resume from scratch, and there is a good selection of templates to choose from to get you started.

There’s a choice of two web apps to use, and we’d recommend the newer one, even though it’s still in beta. It removes a lot of the limitations placed by the original editing app. There’s no help with cover letters though, and it lacks the pre-written phrases that are a highlight of other services. There’s support in the form of a blog, however.

A further useful feature is the creation of a link, which you can use to give people access to your online resume - it’s really handy for pasting into an email, but recruiters may still prefer an attachment.

4. Visual CV: Best for templates

Another web app, but one that does things in a slightly different way. It has some bold, unusual template choices too, making it a good option for someone who wants to stand out from the crowd.

Visual CV sets your resume up as a kind of web page, with a unique link you can share with potential employers. You’ll need to subscribe to unlock this ability, but if you’re applying for jobs with the kind of employer who prefers to look at a screen rather then drown in paper, it might be worth it.

You can download your resume as a PDF too, and as long as you use one of the (rather dull, but still professional-looking) free templates, you’ll not be charged for doing so. If you want a little more flair, however, it’s well worth registering for the Pro service, as this also unlocks the ability to download your resume as a Word document, so you can continue editing it on your computer.

There are twice as many templates as LiveCareer’s offering, but it loses ground in terms of the options and control over layout that it offers. Overall, though, this is a strong entrant in the resume app market.

5. Pongo: Best for online help

Not one of the most fully featured resume builders we’ve seen, but one that we can still recommend thanks to the amount of support it offers while you compose your resume.

There’s a lot happening on the Pongo website, and it can be easy to feel lost, but in among all the videos offering advice on everything from cover letters to interview techniques, and success stories from those who got hired using the site, there’s a resume builder you can use for free. Subscribe, however, and the options keep growing. There are templates (although not as many as we’d like to see), sample phrases, matching cover letters and more, though there aren’t as many ways to customize your resume away from the template as we’ve seen elsewhere.

Download options include text, Word and PDF, while the ability to turn your resume into a website is a nice addition. For anyone new to the jobs market, or perhaps returning after a long time away, this is an excellent choice to create your resume.

How much do resume writing apps cost?

Resume writing programs have largely segued into web apps rather than downloadable ones, with subscription charges that range anywhere from a $3 one-off charge for a few days’ access up to about $20 a month. Pay attention when you subscribe, though, because most services offer several different plans – and some plans limit the features or number of resumes you can create. Make sure to find a selection that works for your job search. Also, several of the programs we tested come with a free trial, but frequently the company won’t remove their watermark from free templates. It’s best to pay a little extra and remove the companies’ branding. Being able to download your resume as a Word document is also important, as unlike a PDF you can continue to edit this in Word or one of its compatible free competitors as your skills and experience grow.

How we tested resume apps

We read dozens of articles and researched the current industry standard in resume writing software before we selected which programs to test. Then we downloaded or subscribed to the ones we selected. Most of the current software is web-based, but there are few downloadable programs that have enough features and support to be worth mentioning.

In each program we created a resume and then tested the available features. We evaluated how intuitive the input options and wizard (the tool that you use to input your data) were in each program. We also looked for programs that offer additional support beyond simple resume creation. Resume software that connect with popular job search engines or give tips about acing your interview ranked higher in our comparison.

We looked for import and export options that allow you to easily transfer your completed work to new systems and give you flexibility to use the information from older resumes to create new ones. We also graded the software on customization tools, like margin spacing and font choices, as well as text size and watermarks to make sure you can create a resume that’ll stand out.  We learned there’s often a balance between having plenty of options and having so many that they become overwhelming, so we looked for a number of templates and features that was just right.

Are resume apps actually worth it?

In a word, yes. Based on our experience with the sites and services we tested, it's helpful to have the task of creating a resume broken up into more manageable chunks. Many of the programs that we used have wizards that provide helpful tips or guidance on each section. It's also convenient to be able to save personal information, like your address and home phone number, to be used over and over again as you customize resumes for different job applications. Overall, because resume writing is such a common experience, we think its hard to go wrong with these programs. They are also inexpensive enough that it’s worth a try.

Resume and job hunting trends for 2021

Economists are predicting an uneven recovery from the spike in unemployment caused by the pandemic, and the US rate might stay above 6% until the end of the year.

Keep It Short, but Not Too Short: A recent study by ResumeGo shows that recruiters are twice as likely to prefer a two-page resume than a single-page resume. The common wisdom used to be that anything beyond a single page is a strike against you, but if you have the work experience and qualifications, don’t skimp on including them. Be as thorough as possible.

Start Strong: The top third of your resume is the most important real estate. Use it to make an impression and to give the hiring manager the most important information. Include contact information, your LinkedIn account info, your most recent job and a summary statement. The summary isn’t an objective – instead, it should be a statement that catches the recruiter’s eyes. In the summary, talk about your successes and what you can add to the company you’re applying at.

Optimize Your Resume: Many companies use applicant tracking systems to monitor and update you on your application’s progress. Some of these systems can be overzealous about filtering resumes, so you may need to include some keywords used in the job posting. In some cases, you can benefit from using the particular jargon preferred by the company you’re applying at.

Customize & Cut: Make sure each resume is tailored to the specific job you’re applying for. One-size-fits-all resumes don’t really work any more. Trim your resume to the last 10 to 15 years of your job history – anything further back could date you or may be irrelevant. If you’re applying for a job as a software developer, the company hiring you isn’t interested in your high school dishwashing job.

Get the Top Ten Reviews Newsletter

Sign up to receive the latest news, reviews, buying guides and deals direct to your inbox

Ian has been a journalist for 20 years. He's written for magazines and websites on subjects such as video games, technology, PC hardware, popular (and unpopular) science, gardening and astronomy. In his spare time he has a pet tortoise and grows his own vegetables. He also has a passion for cameras and photography, and has written for TTR on these subjects.

10 plants not to prune during Spring— according to an expert

Memorial Day is almost here, but you don't have to wait to save over $600 on this GE washer dryer

Best grills 2024: the top ten grills, tried and tested

Most Popular

When you use links on our website, we may earn a fee.

Best Resume Writing Services of 2024

In an increasingly competitive job market, seeking the best resume writing services is vital. While individuals and businesses still offer those services, some job seekers use AI resources as a shortcut. In fact, according to a recent study by MIT’s Sloan School of Management, using AI to help with overall help with resumes increased hiring odds by up to 8%.

Resources like ChatGPT are growing in popularity to help generate resumes and cover letters outright. However, many job searchers know that while they can use AI to formulate a generic resume for free, it is a tool that cannot fully replace a specialized, personal touch from a long-time professional. In this round-up, we review our choices for the best resume writing services to recommend the option that can best aid you in your job search.

Table of Contents

• Best Resume Writing Services
• Things To Consider When Looking
• How We Chose

TopResume  »

Offers free resume reviews

60-day interview guarantee

Able to customize resumes by industry

2x more interviews or will rewrite resume for free

Limit of two revisions

Results might be disappointing if not willing to buy highest-priced package

TopResume is a popular service providing free critiques of existing resumes and a relatively low starting cost for a new and customized resume. The process works by first having you answer a detailed questionnaire and then matching you with an experienced professional knowledgeable of your industry who assists with customizing your resume accordingly. TopResume employs a network of 1,200 writers.

Your document gets carefully written to pass through applicant tracking systems, or ATS, to provide the best chance of getting your documents in front of a hiring manager and increasing your interview odds. In addition to resumes, TopResume also writes cover letters and LinkedIn biographies. You should expect your first draft back within a week. TopResume offers a maximum of two rewrites.

While TopResume aims to get things right the first time, the service provides up to two rewrites if you aren’t satisfied with the result; while this is a good start, those in highly specialized or less common fields may not have access to as wide a pool of experts as others. If you are willing to pay top dollar for the most expensive plan, your access to writers with specialist knowledge will likely expand.

TopResume’s pricing plans work for professionals at all levels, making it the ideal service for the broadest range of job searchers.

Free resume templates and samples

Coaching is available for as low as $56

Options for all career levels

Job board with positions across various industries

Not a straightforward resume writing service

Slightly longer turnaround window than alternatives

No refunds for final resume or cover letter

TheMuse may primarily be known for sharing available jobs across multiple industries, but it is also a coaching and mentorship resource for job seekers. You not only have the chance to get your existing resume rewritten, but you can chat with a coaching professional by phone or Skype for 30 minutes; if unsatisfied, you get at least one round of edits.

In addition to tailored resumes, TheMuse provides coaching sessions, updated LinkedIn bios, and more. The service offers a combination of services meant to fit every budget and level of need. It’s easy to select only the features you need and avoid overpaying.

Although TheMuse provides valuable resume writing services, it does emphasize its coaching services over its resume and cover letter resources. TheMuse also works to update your existing documents instead of aiming to provide a resume built from scratch. If you already have a good foundation to work from, these services can be very useful for polish, but you may want to consider another service on this list if you are looking to start from the ground up.

Also be aware that you must be mindful of any errors in the draft as, aside from correcting spelling and grammar, no refunds get issued for final resumes or cover letters. You may be entitled to a single rewrite or unlimited rewrites depending on the service package you select. However, if you are simply displeased with the final version of the product for non-grammatical reasons, then it’s unlikely a refund will get issued.

Craft Resumes  »

Free resume review

Writes resumes and CVs.

Affiliated with the NRWA and PARWCC

Relatively fast turnaround

Packages available for professionals range from entry to executive-level

Price listings could be more precise

Possible grammar issues due to language barrier

Craft Resumes is an internationally-based resume writing service with a team dedicated to assisting jobseekers worldwide. In addition to resumes and CVs, you can receive a custom cover letter, thank you note, and LinkedIn page. Additionally, you can order career coaching and receive round-the-clock support from team members. Its pricing ranges from about $139 to $630, making it suitable for job hunters of all economic backgrounds.

Craft Resumes offers one of the fastest turnaround windows we could find when researching resume writing services. You should receive your first draft within a day of requesting service, and the process takes about five days on average. If you need a new resume fast, this resume writing service could be your best bet.

One major caveat for native English speakers is that Craft Resumes often employs resume writers who are not; this means there is a potential for language barriers and miscommunications. Some customers have complained of this previously. Even so, most customers tend to be satisfied with the work provided by this company. Craft Resumes works with people worldwide, so they are ideal for people seeking employment outside of North America.

Let’s Eat, Grandma  »

30-minute consultations

Completely customized resume

Free resume critique

Special executive-level concierge service

Very expensive compared to alternate services

Limit of rewrites unless you buy most expensive package

Let’s Eat, Grandma, sometimes called LEG, is one of the leading resume writing services available, though best suited for jobseekers with a more generous budget. Though it might be more expensive than some alternatives, its Executive Concierge Package is formulated and streamlined toward supporting the most senior-level members of the workforce who are looking to navigate from one role to the next.

If you want an executive-level resume writing service and experience, then Let’s Eat, Grandma is perhaps the most suitable option. That said, this company may not be the best fit if you are closer to entry-level or have a restricted budget. Let’s Eat Grandma’s main selling point is that it is not a budget resume writing service and is best suited for those seeking a premium, expert-level experience. If quality and expertise are your main concerns, and budget is not a primary consideration, then there’s a good chance Let’s Eat, Grandma represents good value for the money.

Federal Resume USA  »

Plans are specifically available for those seeking government jobs

Also provides resume services for military spouses

Plan options for veterans

Range of affordable plan options

Website is a bit dated

Payment plans and pricing a little confusing

Federal Resume USA is a resume writing service that is specifically tailored towards supporting those seeking government and military positions. It differs from practically every other resume writing business reviewed in that it is primarily government-focused. Federal Resume USA works with customers trying to obtain a government job or who are transferring away from federal and military roles and need a civilian or private sector-friendly resume. The pricing varies from around $100 for a critique to $300 for resumes tailored toward GS-14, GS-15, and SES PO positions, putting the pricing plans within the budget of most potential customers.

Though Federal Resume USA may be a service that is ideal for government job seekers, it is hard to ignore how dated the website is. It can be hard to distinguish one pricing plan from the next, raising the risk of customers accidentally opting for the wrong plan. Though the pages lack a modern charm, the service is well-suited to customers who want writers specifically familiar with creating resumes for federal government and military jobs.

ResumeSpice  »

Creates resumes for a broad range of industries

Offers outplacement services to companies

DISC assessment to assist in navigating career path

Expensive resume service plans

No option to just get a resume written up

No clear refund policy

If you are looking to make a career change or need outplacement assistance, ResumeSpice is a leading resource for job hunters either making a change or preparing to move on from a current position. The process varies depending on the exact services you choose. For resumes, you select your preferred package; you can also choose to add other items, such as a cover letter.

After making your purchase, you should get an email from ResumeSpice and complete a quick questionnaire; the email also includes a link to schedule a consultation. Following a phone call with your resume writer, where you further explain your career goals and further expand on your questionnaire, the writer will get to work on your resume. ResumeSpice shares that first drafts are usually completed within two business days.

If you aren’t satisfied with the final product, ResumeSpice will rewrite your resume at no additional cost. The brand will also rework your resume if you fail to get a single interview within 60 days of working with them. While this may be agreeable to some customers, getting a refund appears difficult if you aren’t completely happy with the service.

Affordable plans

ATS optimization

No clear indication of turnaround time

Not necessarily transparent about refunds

ZipJob is a resume writing service that provides a series of resume writing plans that work for entry-level job seekers as well as specialized package for executive-level customers. The service works by asking that you send a copy of your most recent resume and answer a few questions. You are paired with a writer who collaborates directly with you to create a brand-new resume. Once the draft is complete, ZipJob runs your resume through an ATS scanner.

ZipJob is so confident in its process and the quality of the resume that it promotes a 60-day guarantee for its Fast Track and Premium tiers; if you don’t get twice as many interviews as before using their service, ZipJob will rewrite your resume for free. The terms of service indicate that all sales are final aSpcend there are no refunds.

Aside from questions about turnaround and refunds for dissatisfied customers, ZipJob is a comprehensive service provider that works to ensure you are provided the best quality ATS-friendly resume that it can.

The Bottom Line

Resume writing services remain a valuable resource for job hunting, whether you are unemployed or presently employed and seeking a move elsewhere. For those lacking resume writing experience, these services can help you connect with someone able to take your work experience or accomplishments and present them in a streamlined manner while representing your best qualities.

Unlike utilizing AI alone, working with a person or team of people allows you to prep for interviews, acknowledge and work on any professional setbacks, and get used to comfortably collaborating with other people. The best resumes go beyond SEO and keywords – they empower you to self-advocate. The best resume writing services empower and coach you in ways only possible when humans are involved.

Things To Consider When Looking for Resume Writing Services

Hiring the best possible resume writing service comes down to a core group of considerations, each contributing to the increased odds of landing your ideal job. Here’s what to look for in a great service.

Experience level and writer certifications: You should aim to work with a writer with at least a few years of resume writing experience. Be sure to look for a resume writing service that is open about its writer’s qualifications and willing to showcase its team members.

Be wary of businesses that make lofty, general claims without any verifiable output or customer testimonials. As Sarah Johnston, expert resume writer and owner of Briefcase Coach, notes, “Reviews can be faked, and follower count is not a direct correlation of quality of service.” Popularity alone is not always enough to indicate future satisfaction. Johnston recommends a closer look at the process and an eye toward “how the company is extracting your career narrative.”

In addition to considering resume writing experience, opting for certified resume writers is also best for increasing your odds of getting a good result. Certifications through the National Resume Writer’s Association (NRWA) or the Professional Association of Resume Writers and Career Coaches (PARWCC) are the most widely sought and respected. If you are seeking a verified resume writing professional or service, check to see if they are certified through these or similarly reputable organizations.

Pricing and value for the money: Consider everything that’s provided as part of the service when comparing plans or getting a quote. Are you only getting a resume written, or will you also receive a cover letter? Will you be speaking to someone over the phone or via video conferencing? The more features that come with the service, the more you can expect the price to rise. That said, receiving a valuable series of services that will strongly assist you in finding a new job should be considered good value for the money.

Entry-level jobseekers with a small budget may be more concerned with affordability, sticking to plans that provide just the necessities. However, a senior employee seeking an executive-level role will more likely seek higher-tier premium packages that offer far more than a well-written resume. Good value for money here will include high-caliber coaching, extensive interview preparation, and ensuring their resume, cover letter, and LinkedIn profile are all flawless.

It is a good idea to aim for the best quality service you can afford, instead of prioritizing services strictly by which ones cost the least.

Combines AI with human expertise: While some services think of AI as something that could usurp their customer base, it has the strong potential to be a reliable resume-writing tool when combined with an organization’s pre-existing expertise and skill. Says Johnston, “AI can shorten the writing time, which, as a result, should decrease the cost of service.” As such, she says it makes sense for more price-conscious consumers to opt for a company that leverages AI.

Still, when it comes to AI, there should be a balance. For instance, some websites rely entirely on artificial intelligence or automation to construct a resume. You would input all the relevant information and generate a document. While that may be fast and convenient, there’s always the risk that you get left with something generic that doesn’t highlight your unique qualities as an employee or contractor. By working with a resume writing service, you are more likely to be paired with an expert who will showcase your best qualities.

Turnaround time: The turnaround period refers to how long it typically takes a service to receive your questionnaire, existing resume, or instructions and then return a first draft. The average time among top-tier resume writing services is typically 7 to 10 business days; some brands will skew slightly faster or slower depending on their experience, the type of resume work requested, or their workload. In some cases, especially if you only need a critique or a single-page resume, you might come across a service offering a window of one or two days.

Please note that turnaround time isn’t strictly about how fast you can get a draft back; it also demonstrates how thorough a service is with your case. When considering a resume writing business, you should know how long it should take to get back a first draft and how long it should take to complete any necessary revisions. If you are in a hurry, check to see if the resume writing service will expedite the process, but be prepared to pay an extra fee in exchange for getting your documents back within a notably shorter window.

Customization and personal approach: There are resume writing services that use the same formatting and font for virtually every resume they create, which could be an issue if your goal is to stand out. Having a resume that is visually forgettable and features the same jargon and keywords as everyone else’s will ultimately work against your chances of getting selected for a role.

To avoid falling behind, you should seek out a resume writing service that provides custom resumes and takes a personal yet professional approach to formulating your documents. For example, Johnston shared that she and her team spend an average of 15 hours on each executive resume. “The whole goal of a resume is to demonstrate to the reader that you, as the candidate, are the solution to their pain points.” Johnston notes that jobseekers have a habit of trying to tell a “kitchen sink” story with their resumes, throwing in everything without much regard to how naturally items fit. As Johnston puts it, “[Resume writers] help refine their messaging, so it resonates with their target audience.”

How We Chose the Best Resume Writing Services

At U.S. News 360 Reviews, our writers and editors combined consultations with industry experts, including a former recruiter and executive-level resume writer, with in-depth research to curate a list of high-quality resume writing services. We formulated a methodology based on the most relevant features that jobseekers often look to when deciding on a reliable resume writing service.

We considered affordability and value for the money, turnaround time, customization, and even what services are best according to where one finds oneself in their career path. With these features in mind, we narrowed our list down according to the resume writing services we felt best fit each category and so are most suited to your specific needs.

WHY SHOULD YOU TRUST US?

Our contributors and editors each have years of experience with product research and testing and are often directly knowledgeable of the topics they write for us. For instance, Toni Matthews-El, the writer of this article, has years of experience drafting resumes and cover letters. She not only wrote and critiqued resumes for numerous clients, but she also earned a professional branding certification through Randstad RiseSmart.

Even if writing your own resume or using an AI-based generator saves money, there’s a good chance there are crucial qualities you may fail to include because you don’t think of them as essential or feel awkward promoting your achievements. As Johnston notes, “The majority of people are quite terrible at tooting their own horn. It truly helps to have an external party unearth your story. “

A high-quality resume writing service is staffed by professionals who’ve spent years polishing professional careers to achieve the highest luster so your resume shines when placed in front of a hiring manager. And as competition for roles tightens, it will take more than the right keywords to impress. Many top resume writing services also provide interview preparation and one-on-one coaching.

Finding an affordable resume writing service that provides a low-cost first draft and at least one rewrite is very easy. While it is tempting to go the free route to save money whenever possible, premium resumes and cover letters help you put your best foot forward in the job market.

If you are worried about not getting the best value for the money, check confirmed reviews of past customers. You should also ensure the service has a money-back guarantee, draft rewrites, and is willing to provide refunds to unhappy customers.

Whether resume writing services help with cover letters usually depends on your purchase package. In researching this article, the author found that some services had plans that only created or updated resumes and other upgraded packages that handled both. Some services bundled resumes and cover letters, while others offered the items separately. Because many companies often request a cover letter with a resume, it is generally a good idea to combine both items when possible.

If you opt for freeware or a resume generator, then there is a good chance your resume is the result of automation or AI rather than an actual person’s work. If you work with a reputable writing service, then there is almost always at least one confirmed human behind the process, especially if the writer or coach emails you directly to begin putting the resume together.

It is important to note that top-tier resume services are increasingly using AI as part of the writing process, which isn’t something to automatically be afraid of. “If you are a price-conscious consumer,” says Johnston. “It might make sense for you to use a company that leverages AI. AI can shorten the writing time, which as a result, should decrease the cost of service.”

Johnston recommends seeking resume writing services that are transparent regarding how much AI figures into the overall process. “My company does not use AI for our document creation. I have concerns over data privacy and limited control over content. “

If you don’t like the resume the service writes for you, make a note of everything you have an issue with. Are there numerous spelling and grammatical errors? Highlight them and ask that they be corrected.

If it is a matter of incomplete or incorrect professional information, or dissatisfaction with the formatting, make detailed notes and ask if the writer can make changes so that the final product will be in line with your preferences. It is important to be aware of how many rewrites you are entitled to and to ensure that you make every desired change with the allotted drafts; a final version may not be entitled to the rewrites you desire.

If the problems involve poor spelling and grammar, you might be entitled to a refund or extra rewrite for an otherwise final draft. It is best to check the resume writing service’s FAQs or terms of service to know exactly what you are entitled to. If it is a matter of preference, there is a chance that refunds aren’t available. If that’s the case, your best recourse is to note everything you didn’t like in the first draft and work carefully with the writer to get it to align with your preferred version.

About Our Team

Toni Matthews-El

Contributor

Lauren Swift

U.S. News 360 Reviews takes an unbiased approach to our recommendations. When you use our links to buy products, we may earn a commission but that in no way affects our editorial independence.

Best resume builder of 2024

Use the best resume builders to enhance visibility on job search engines and employee finder services

Best overall

Best for features, best for ease-of-use, best job finder, best ai-powered, best affordable, best for speed, best for style, best for versatility, best for phrases, best for recruiters, how we test.

The best resume builders make it simple and easy to write up and manage a CV.

1. Best overall 2. Best for features 3. Best for ease-of-use 4. Best job finder 5. Best AI-powered 6. Best affordable 7. Best for speed 8. Best for style 9. Best for versatility 10. Best for phrases 11. Best for recruiters 12. Best free 13. FAQs 14. How we test

If you’re on the hunt for a new career, you simply can't skip making an effort with every part of the application process, and that means getting your resume right. And to truly stand out, you need to create one with an eye-catching design alongside the relevant information.

The best resume builders transform your resume to create a bold, eye-catching document, and you might not even have to spend any money. Some of the best use free templates with a proven success rate – templates that have helped people land their dream positions.

There are loads of options if you do want to spend some cash, too. Loads of the best resume builders will go above and beyond the best free alternatives if you hand over a bit of money.

Whether you need a free resume builder or a paid option, we’ve got you covered – we’ve compared various resume builders to arrive at the best ones for you. We looked at the variety of templates they offered, the quality of design, the website/app interface, and the pricing plans. We also assessed how swift and hassle-free the entire resume-building process was.

We've also rounded up the best online learning platforms .

Post Your First Job in Minutes with ZipRecruiter Find qualified candidates and get distribution on at least 100 job sites with one click. Start your 4-day free trial today and then pay as low as $16/day after that. 

The best resume builders of 2024 in full:

Why you can trust TechRadar We spend hours testing every product or service we review, so you can be sure you’re buying the best. Find out more about how we test.

1. Resume.com

Reasons to buy, reasons to avoid.

 It’s no surprise that Resume.com is where many people start looking when they want to buy a new resume – after all, that name is a pretty good sign of this site’s key strength.

True to form, the site has loads of fantastic templates that you can use, and the huge popularity of this site means that they’re proven to work – as vast numbers of people have already used these templates to secure interviews and new positions. Resume.com has also spoken to thousands of employees and employers to find out what people are looking for in a candidate, and its templates are based on that evidence.

The company behind Resume.com also owns Indeed.com , which is one of the web’s biggest recruitment websites. That means Resume.com has loads of data available for creating its resume builder and CV templates. That also means it’s easy to share your CV to Indeed.com when it’s finished, so you’ll be able to apply for jobs in no time.

Resume.com is free to use, and its templates cater to dozens of different jobs and industries, so it’s easy to start. Once it’s finished, you can easily download it to your PC or laptop . This may not be the only resume builder on the market, but you shouldn’t ignore Resume.com.

• ^ Back to the top

2. ResumeGenius

A site with a name like ResumeGenius must step up if it’s going to live up to its moniker, and this resume builder does the job in terms of quality and features.

ResumeGenius starts the process by deploying dozens of different CV templates. There are plenty of good-looking resumes available here, although they do veer towards the conventional – you’ll find plenty of traditional resumes but few graphics-heavy modern options.

You can fill out your resume with more than 50,000 pre-written bullet points. They cover all industries and mean you can sound as professional as possible. You can download your resume as a Word document or PDF, and the site also has a cover letter builder and tools that can help you with resignation letters, thank-you notes, and letters of recommendation.

This site doesn’t have the in-depth options of many others, but it’s a free tool that can quickly produce a professional resume – and that makes it worth using.

3. CakeResume

CakeResume uses an intuitive and straightforward drag-and-drop interface to make resume creation easier, even for users who may not be particularly savvy when using technology.

The interface allows you to customize your layout, elements, and information quickly, and CakeResume pairs this intelligent user experience with a range of attractive and impressive templates. You can download your resume at any point in the creation process, which is handy for checking your progress or getting feedback from others.

You can download your finished resume as a PDF for free, but you’re only allowed to create one basic resume using the free service. With the Advanced plan, you can use more than twenty premium resume designs as often as you want, and you can remove the CakeResume branding from your finished CV. The Pro option allows you to track your resume using Google Analytics and share the finished product using a custom domain name.

CakeResume is fast, easy to use, and has loads of attractive and straightforward resume templates. Still, it’s only worth considering if you’re willing to buy one of the paid options – the free tier is minimal.

4. Reed.co.uk

Reed.co.uk is a UK-focused site that offers a resume creation tool as part of its wider set of employment features, like job listings, skills modules, and career advice articles.

You start to create a resume when you register your account, and the site takes you through a simple four-step process to create a basic resume. You add your personal information, work experience, and qualifications alongside a personal statement, and then your basic resume will be available for download as a Word document. You can also make it visible on Reed.co.uk’s wider website so it’s easy for employers to view.

You can download Reed’s Word template to do it all yourself if you’d prefer, and your resume and profile are linked – so you can add more experience, qualifications, and information alongside information about your skills and job hunting journey. It’s a free service, and it’s a welcome addition to this popular job site, but be aware that you don’t get to use sophisticated templates or advanced design elements here.

5. Novoresume

Novoresume deploys dozens of different resume templates to help you find the perfect job. They’re all created in conjunction with experienced recruiters, and they’re applicable to loads of different career paths and industries.

You can choose to start with a traditional template, a professional design that includes a photograph or a creative template, and you’ll find other templates that offer a simple, modern, and professional range of designs.

Those templates are a suitable place to start, and Novoresume aims to go further with its extra features. You can use cover letter templates alongside the resume templates. This site has an AI -powered analysis service that suggests resume improvements as you tweak the layout and enter your information.

It’s an intuitive and effective site with straightforward features, and you can use the Basic tier to create a free resume.

The Premium option allows you to use a broader range of fonts and colors, add special sections and graphics to your resume, create more resumes and deploy distinctive styles and templates. That’s all welcome, but this is one of the better sites if you want to create a free resume – it’s not particularly restrictive.

6. ResumeHelp

ResumeHelp is the perfect resume builder to use if you’re not particularly confident with written English, or if it’s not your first language.

This site allows you to create a resume with confidence by inserting pre-written bullet points that emphasize your strengths without focusing on potentially tricky linguistic errors. There are thousands of points that can work in all sorts of resumes, so you won’t be short of things to say, and you’ll also receive help from extra tips as you build your resume.

The site has fifteen different templates available. The designs focus on more traditional, conventional layouts, so this site is ideal if you want to put together a classic, familiar resume. You can customize all the information as you go through the process, upload an old resume to kickstart your new document, and it’s free to download the document after you’re finished.

The upgrade plans are cheap, too: you can buy two weeks of access or a month of access and that plan means you can create more resumes, use more templates, and build cover letters too.

CVmaker is one of the easiest resume builders to use, so it’s an ideal choice if you want to put together a resume quickly and without any fuss.

Creating a resume on CVmaker is simple. The site uses a step-by-step process to gather information about your work experience, education, interests, and references. When that’s done you can switch the design between a selection of different styles and download the document for your use in job applications. You can also add your own sections to the resume, which is a feature that isn’t available on some other sites.

CVmaker is a simple tool, though, especially in its free guise – at this point it’s fine for building a basic resume, but that’s it. If you upgrade to the site’s premium tier you can add more custom sections, use better templates and take advantage of an advanced text editor. It only requires a one-off payment, so it’s one of the cheapest paid resume builder options available.

8. VisualCV

VisualCV is one of the most powerful and versatile resume-building websites around. The process begins with loads of attractive and modern templates that offer more color and visual pop than most other resume building tools, and once you’ve chosen the right look, you’re able to customize each resume to properly suit your needs.

This site goes far beyond resume building. You can use advanced resume tracking to see when your document has been viewed or downloaded, and you can access free guides, blog posts, and articles if you need some extra help. You can import data from LinkedIn to make CV building easier and consult cover letter templates too.

VisualCV allows you to easily share your resume with family and friends for quick feedback, and it has more privacy options than most resume builders, so your information is more secure.

This site’s free package allows you to create one resume using a single template and then download it, but it will have VisualCV branding that can’t be removed. The Pro option gives you more templates and the ability to create an unlimited number of resumes.

9. Resume.io

Resume.io is one of the broadest resume sites on the internet, with a massive range of features that offer impressive quality in every department.

As with any other resume builder, you can quickly use an attractive template to produce a rock-solid CV using Resume.io. This site also benefits from thousands of pre-written phrases alongside automatic spell checking and the ability to export your file in any format you choose.

Elsewhere, this site deploys cover letter templates too. You can also generate automatic summaries for your documents, access recruitment tips, and track any applications that have used the documents you create on the site.

If you use Resume.io for free, you can create a resume and cover letter and share links to those files with prospective employers, but you can only download the resume as a basic text file. If you buy its professional plan, you can create an unlimited number of resumes and cover letters using the site’s full library of tools. That’s the option we’d recommend.

10. KickResume

KickResume places a big emphasis on easy resume creation, and it includes loads of different tools that will simplify the process and help you avoid common pitfalls.

This site serves up more than fifty professional templates that cover traditional and modern design alongside many key jobs and industries. The site has more than 20,000 pre-written phrases that can be slotted into your resume – perfect if you want to include professional language in a quick and straightforward fashion.

You can view resumes that have helped candidates land jobs at companies like Facebook, NASA, and Google . KickResume has in-built proofreading alongside a cover letter builder.

It’s free to create four resumes using KickResume, and you can have a basic website and get access to the full library of pre-written phrases too – this is one of the more generous options for free resume creation. But if you upgrade to the Pro plan, you’ll get more templates, full customization options and AI resume review alongside priority support.  

Zety prides itself on its speed and ease of use, and there's certainly lots to like here: users can build a comprehensive and attractive resume with more than 20 templates, and you can upload your existing CV or add new information to get a document produced within minutes.

The site's resume generation tool delivers context-sensitive tips from professional recruiters as you create your document, and once it's done you can tweak the file with extensive editing options.

Zety has a cover letter builder alongside its resume tools, and users can also access resume and cover letter templates. The site also explains which resume formats are best-suited to different industries and employment situations, and Zety's extensive blog has in-depth articles about resumes, cover letters, and loads of other employment topics.

It's free to build a resume on Zety, but you'll have to pay if you want to download that file in different formats and access the site's full range of features. Happily, it's affordable.

Indeed is one of the largest and most reliable job boards on the web. It offers job listings, great options for employers, and impressive salary data and career advice – and, alongside all of that, it’s got a great resume builder.

Once you’ve registered and verified your account you’ll be ready to get started, and Indeed’s resume builder is pleasingly straightforward. There are eight clean, modern templates to use, and users can deploy a small selection of different accent colors and fonts to personalize the document. It’s easy to type in your personal details, education history and previous employment, and Indeed suggests relevant skills that you can add to the document with a single click.

Once you’ve added those and any extra professional certifications, the basic resume is finished, and you’re given a preview of the document alongside the option to add sections for languages, website links, awards, community achievements and more.

You can make the document public or private – if you choose the former, it can help you apply for jobs on Indeed.com – and you can also download the resume as a PDF file if you’d like to use it for applications elsewhere. And, if you don’t want to use Indeed’s full resume builder, you can use a wizard to create a basic document with a step-by-step process.

It’s extremely easy to edit your resume and add information after you’ve been through the initial creation process, and a personalized link is also available if you want to share the document with other people online. And, if you pay extra, Indeed.com also offers resume reviews.

Indeed.com’s resume builder is basic compared to many of the others mentioned here – you don’t get as many editing and layout options as other sites. That’s not necessarily a bad thing, though, because it means that Indeed.com can quickly and easily create an effective resume that contains all the information that recruiters need – and, as an added bonus, it’s completely free.

Also check out the best freelancer websites .

What is a resume builder?

Resume builders are online apps that offer interactive templates and forms for swiftly building a seamless resume. While some resume builders need you to fill out all the information manually, some provide relevant pre-written phrases and allow you to import data. 

You'll find various free and paid resume builders online. 

How to choose the best resume builders for you?

To determine the best resume builder for yourself, start with considering whether you want a free or paid option and all the areas you need support with — design, content, or review. If you have your content ready and just need a tool to set up a cohesive and attractive resume, go with a resume builder that offers lovely templates and allows you to import data. 

If you need help with the content, check out builders that offer context-relevant insights and pre-written phrases. For those who want further assistance in reviewing the quality of their resume, you’ll want to opt for a builder that has a review or consultation service.

We tested many resume builders to select the best resume builders. We looked at their pricing plans — whether they were free, subscription-based, or if they had one-time payment options. We evaluated the variety of templates they had, the quality of their designs, the level of customizability they offered, and if there were data-importing options.

We considered whether they offered pre-written phrases and context-relevant tips, if there was a review service, and how straightforward the interface and resume-building process was. We also analyzed their customer service to check how prompt, helpful, and customer-oriented they were.

Read more on how we test, rate, and review products on TechRadar .

Get in touch

• Want to find out about commercial or marketing opportunities? Click here
• Out of date info, errors, complaints or broken links? Give us a nudge
• Got a suggestion for a product or service provider? Message us directly
• You've reached the end of the page. Jump back up to the top ^

Are you a pro? Subscribe to our newsletter

Sign up to the TechRadar Pro newsletter to get all the top news, opinion, features and guidance your business needs to succeed!

Désiré has been musing and writing about technology during a career spanning four decades. He dabbled in website builders and web hosting when DHTML and frames were in vogue and started narrating about the impact of technology on society just before the start of the Y2K hysteria at the turn of the last millennium.

• Mike Jennings

Adobe Fresco (2024) review

Adobe Illustrator (2024) review

I've been walking 10,000 steps a day for a year – here are five unexpected benefits I've experienced

Most Popular

• 2 Microsoft’s controversial Recall feature for Windows 11 could already be in legal hot water
• 3 Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra get steep $1,000 discount — but only if you follow these steps
• 4 Netflix movie of the day: Denzel Washington and Spike Lee surprisingly subvert the heist movie formula with Inside Man
• 5 Who needs Memorial Day? The Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra just hit a record-low price
• 2 Huawei's new 128TB SSD reportedly uses a mix of TLC and QLC flash
• 3 Build or buy? How smart TV OEMs choose an OS in a market that’s getting ever smarter
• 4 I tried “Strava sniping” and I ended up trying to topple Usain Bolt’s world record
• 5 Forget Intel and AMD - Nvidia's next big competitor might be a company you've never heard of

15 Best Online Resume Builders in 2024

Crafting a well-structured and detailed resume piece-by-piece can be hard.

If you’re using Microsoft Word, it takes time to get everything right and then editing a single section of the resume usually messes everything up.

That’s no good.

Luckily, you can just use a resume builder.

With a solid resume builder, you don’t have to invest your sweat , blood , and tears into crafting your resume. All you have to do is sign up, and the software does all the resume formatting for you.

And on top of that, you’ll be using a tried-and-tested resume template. This guarantees that you’ll present yourself in the best way possible.

But there are a ton of online resume builders out there - so, which one do you use?

In this guide, we’re going to be covering 15 of the best online resume builders on the market and give our thoughts on each.

15 Online Resume Builders Reviewed

Most resume builders have something unique to offer.

It’s hard to pick the perfect one , because well, perfection doesn’t really exist.

That’s right.

The resume builder you choose will most likely depend on what you’re looking for.

This is why we’re going to be covering some of the online resume builders by the following criteria:

• Premium features
• # of resume templates available
• Cover letter builder availability
• Pros and cons

Now, let’s dive into the huge world of online resume builders, starting with:

Yes, that’s us.

Are we biased?

Maybe a little.

But hear us out - Novorésumé is awesome.

Creating a professional resume and cover letter has never been so easy. 

Our templates were designed to represent your skills and work experience in the best way possible. 

Using one of Novorésumé’s flexible resume templates , you can adjust , edit , and customize your resume based on the position or company you’re applying to.

Applying for a job in the creative industry?

Maybe you want to be a marketer or work in advertising.

Pick one of the more creative templates and stand out from the rest of the candidates!

Or, on the other hand, maybe you’re applying for a job in finance .

In that case, you can try one of our more traditional resume templates.

Whatever type of job you’re applying for, Novorésumé has the right template for you.

And speaking of resume templates, our templates are ATS-friendly (resume screening software that HR managers love to use). Meaning, if you have the right experience listed, you’re sure to get past the automatic software screening process.

Don't trust us? Check out what people have to say on Trustpilot :

Not sure how to build a resume?

To put the icing on the cake, our resume builder also comes with a smart content optimizer that will analyze your progress and give you quality suggestions on how to improve each section.

That’s a lot of features.

So, how much does it cost? 

Let’s take a look:

Unlike other online resume builders, Novorésumé is very transparent about which of its services are included in the free version. When editing your resume, the premium features are marked with a star. If you choose one of these, a box will pop up to inform you that you’ll have to upgrade to premium in order to download your resume. This is extremely useful and helps you easily decide if upgrading is worth the cost.

• Freemium : available
• 1 Month Premium: $ 19.99
• 3 Months Premium: $39.99
• 12 Months Premium: $99.99

Unlike other similar companies, Novorésumé’s pricing isn’t subscription based. That means that after the month you paid for is over, you won’t be auto-charged for another month.

Premium Features

• Up to 3 pages of a resume/CV
• Cover letter builder
• Custom layout
• Multiple resume versions
• Specialized sections, and more

# Of Resume Templates Available

• Free Templates Available: 8
• Paid Templates Available: 0

Cover Letter Builder

Available only for the premium version

• A lot of professional templates to get you started
• Creative resume templates that are guaranteed to stand out
• Plenty of features and choices with the free version (that you’d have to pay for with other resume builders)
• ATS-friendly resume templates that won’t get lost in the software screening process
• Live smart feedback to improve your resume in case you missed something
• A lot of free resources and guides on how to polish your resume
• Transparent pricing model and no automatic renewal
• Going over one page of your resume and some other premium options cost extra

CVMaker is a barebones approach to resume making and allows you to create resumes effortlessly with a super simple interface.

Though most of their templates are minimalistic by nature, you can still customize the sections and the design on your own.

CVMaker includes up to 37 languages and you can create a printable resume in a matter of minutes.

The customization of the tool doesn’t have a lot going for it, but you can always add a custom section on your own.

Once done, you can then import your resume into a PDF, HTML, and TXT documents.

• Freemium: available
• Premium: $16/year
• Premium themes
• Special sections
• Rich text editing

# of Resume Templates Available

Unavailable.

• Simple to use and get into
• Easy to upload/edit resumes
• Minimalistic approach to an online text-based resume maker
• Not a lot of customization with the templates within the sections and design
• No resources or tips on how to make your resume better

Enhancv gives you a total of 4 different resume builder templates you can choose from based on your field and job experience.

The tool is fairly simple to use.

You pick from a number of templates and then customize the design based on sections , fonts , colors , layout , and more.

There is little to no learning curve with the tool as you can start creating a resume immediately once you log in.

Once you have a draft resume, you can get instant feedback on your resume through the app’s content analyzer tool.

The final result is that you end up with a professional, yet personal resume with a memorable design.

• 7 days free trial
• Pro Semi-Annual: $ 10.99/m
• Pro Quarterly: $14.99/m
• Pro Monthly: $19.99/m
• Up to 10 resumes and cover letters
• Remove branding on your resume
• Instant tips to fix mistakes
• Pro sections, colors, and backgrounds
• Free Templates Available: 2
• Paid Templates Available: 2

Available only for the premium version.

• Easy to start
• Solid resume design and layout regardless of the profession
• Memorable design and a lot of room for adding and arranging sections
• Feels limited with the freemium options
• Some important resume sections require premium

VisualCV is an online resume builder that you can use to create PDFs resumes for just about any industry.

They have the option to upload your current resume to improve it, and a resources section with all the tips and tricks you’ll need on using VisualCV.

The site has plenty of resume templates depending on your background. Whether you’re a recent graduate , CEO , a freelancer , or anything in between, each of their template has something unique about them.

Whether it be the design, layout, or the structure, you can find one that speaks to you and also manage multiple resumes - depending on where you’re applying.

The website also has all the usual features like exporting and importing your CV, but what really helps them stand out is their resume analytics option.

What this means is that you can share your resume through their website, and keep track of who views or downloads your resume, to avoid getting lost in the hiring process.

• Premium: $12 per month
• Extra resume templates
• Free templates available: 3
• Paid templates available: 15
• Analytics to track your resume performance is a fresh and welcome tool
• Allows you to manage multiple resume versions
• Can get feedback from VisualCV partners or share with friends
• Can edit most resume sections with the free plan
• Only 3 free templates available
• Need the premium option to hide website resume branding
• Freemium resume templates look very similar to each other

CakeResume is an extremely easy-to-use resume builder that starts you off with a generic template that you can then customize by using the site’s drag-and-drop feature.

How does that work?

Essentially, you choose a number of sections you’d like to add to your resume from the sidebar and add them as you please.

This way, you’re in charge of your resume and can build your own layout , based on how you want it to look like.

There are no unnecessary fluff sections and the UI is intuitive so everyone can start building out their layout in a matter of seconds.

If there’s a perfect resume structure that you have in your head and want to get it down on paper, this drag-and-drop approach can help you do that and differentiate yourself from other candidates.

Other than that, the website also has a number of different user-made resume samples, which you can use to discover what good resumes in your field look like.

• Advanced: $7.95/m
• Pro: $15.95/m
• 20+ resume snippets (call-to-action, quotes, video slides, and more)
• Resume tracking via Google Analytics
• Free templates available: 1
• Paid templates available: 0 
• Can edit and customize your resume the way you want to through the drag-and-drop feature
• Can browse through user-made resume templates for inspiration
• A lot of options to edit your resume and make it unique
• Some of the user-made resume samples can be unreliable as a reference. After all, you can never really know how skilled the person is at crafting a resume.
• Can be hard to construct your resume with the drag-and-drop if you don’t know what you’re doing

ResumUP is another interesting take on the online resume builder as it focuses heavily on the visual side of resumes.

More specifically, the website focuses on turning your resume into an infographic .

They have a number of different types of templates and designs, but for the most part, they’re all on the heavy design side .

So, depending on where you’re applying this might be the way to go for you.

For example, if you’re applying to a social media and graphic design job where you’d be making a lot of visual content - turning your resume into an actual infographic can be a quick and easy way to stand out.

The site doesn’t offer a lot of different templates, but from the ones that they do, they’re guaranteed to attract attention.

• Pro profile: $20/m
• Lifetime access: $ 149
• Certain sections (e.g. skills and achievements) require premium
• Extra templates
• Free templates available: 2
• Premium templates available: 11
• Stunning design choices and fancy templates
• Templates available for different industries
• Easy to create and modify despite all the visuals
• Most templates are design-heavy and might be better only for certain jobs
• Can be expensive compared to other resume builders

SlashCV is a really fast way to start creating a resume online as it doesn’t even require you to log in.

To get started, you can simply jump into the builder and already get a sense of what your overall resume will look like.

You can start off by picking one of the available templates.

Or if you’re feeling creative, you can create your own layout using the drag and drop builder.

Unfortunately, the website doesn’t offer a whole lot of customization beyond that. You can’t change the font, background, colors, etc.

As far as basic resume builder sites go - SlashCV is easy to set up and get it going.

• Premium (to host your own resume online on their site): $4.99/year
• Host your resume online
• Paid PDF templates
• Remove watermark
• Free templates available: over 50
• Premium templates available: 0

Unavailable

• Fast, doesn’t require to log in and offers most sections you’ll need in a resume
• Also has the option to add custom sections 
• Can host your resume online as a PDF
• Not a lot of features beyond basic ones
• A lot of the templates look the same and there is little option to change the color schemes or make any other major edits

MyPerfectResume 

MyPerfectResume starts onboarding you by first asking your field , title , level of expertise , and then allows you to pick from a template based on your answers.

After that, you can either create a new resume or upload your current one to edit on their website.

When it comes to filling in your resume sections , the website holds your hand every step of the way, giving you tips on what to mention. So, it can be very useful for someone that’s a beginner creating their first resume.

They even offer a professional service of having a certified resume writer create a personalized resume and cover letter for you in just 3 days.

• 14 day trial: $ 1.95, then $24.95/m
• Annual: $5.95/m, $71.40/year
• Resume writing and cover letter services cost extra
• Download and save your resume in multiple formats
• Scan your resume for common mistakes
• Free templates available: 12
• Premium templates available: 30+
• Easy to follow and set up as it includes tips and guides each step of the way
• Noticeable color schemes and design layouts that make a difference
• Simple, yet powerful templates to get you started - great for beginners
• Forced to fill in your resume sections step-by-step, without the ability to see how the end-result looks until you’re done with it
• Need to sign up for a subscription to download or print your resume
• A lot of templates but you can’t change the layout

Resume.com is an easy to use and straightforward online resume builder.

Starting from the dashboard, you get the option to select a resume or a cover letter template and start filling in the blanks.

The step-by-step process is fairly simple to follow as the website onboarding you asks for all the traditional information like your name, contact information, and so on.

Alternatively, you can upload your current resume to edit on their website or choose a sample resume to start with.

If you select to create one, the site walks you through the process of creating a resume by asking you questions on each section. Once you’re down, it creates a resume based on your answers.

From there, you can edit and rearrange sections as you wish, and also change the following styling options:

With the cover letter , you also get a lot of options, based on your industry and career expertise .

• Not Available
• Free templates available : 24
• Completely free to use
• The resume builder is functional and extremely easy to follow
• 200+ cover letter examples and samples, depending on the industry
• Though there’s a lot of resume templates to choose from, a lot of them look very similar and common. Meaning, it’s going to be very unlikely for your resume to stand out

KickResume helps you get noticed and hired faster.

They offer all the usual stuff - resume templates, cover letters, different designs and layouts , and also the ability to turn your resume into a living, breathing, website .

Through KickResume, you can turn your resume into a personalized, one-click website.

This way, you can take your resume online, include more sections about you and let your future employers learn more about you by simply Googling your name.

• Premium: $8/m
• Grammar Correction: $29 per resume
• Unlimited number of resumes and cover letters
• 20,000+ pre-written phrases you can use in your resume
• Real resume examples
• Email and live chat support
• Free templates available: 4
• 2 templates available for the free version
• 20+ templates for the premium option
• A lot of strong features, resume and cover letter templates available for the freemium version
• Pre-written phrases to help you out in case you’re not sure how to phrase your achievements
• Grammar correction proofreading services available, if needed
• Most templates are creative and sometimes too vibrant - can be a bad thing depending on where you’re applying
• Can be hard to turn your resume into a website, if you don’t know what you’re doing

Vizualize is another heavy visuals-based approach at an online resume builder.

You have two ways to create a resume with Vizualize:

• Export your LinkedIn profile and creative a Vizualize resume automatically
• Sign-up with your email and input your information manually

Then, the software automatically turns your resume into a timeline spaced over a certain timeframe. 

It’s important to note that you should only ever take this approach if you’re sure it’s relevant to your job.

For example, if you’re applying for any company with ATS, you probably won’t pass with this.

Instead, you should only ever use this if you know for a fact that the HR will read your resume manually.

And even then, you should really be sure that they’ll appreciate an infographic resume.

For now, Visualize is still in beta, so here’s what that includes:

• Templates available: 6
• Easy to set up and convert your LinkedIn profile into an infographic
• A lot of options to change the resume styles (colors, font background, etc.)
• Still in beta
• Using an infographic resume might really backfire on your (it’s not standard)

Resumonk is a very straightforward approach to creating beautiful and professional resumes online.

The website has a number of different templates, depending on the occasion, that help you stand out from other candidates to get the call back for the interview.

You can move the sections around as you see fit and modify quite a bit, even with the free plan .

Resumonk doesn’t require you to sign up, and you can start messing with the layout to get a feel of the tool within seconds.

Though, to gain control of some of the more powerful features and options - you really need the premium plan.

• Premium plan: $29/year
• Forever plan (one-time payment): $89
• Cover letter
• Additional fonts and color options
• Custom URL to host your resume online
• Track analytics for your resume
• Freemium templates available: 4
• Premium templates available: 17
• Easy to jump into creating and modifying your resume
• Can download as PDF or host online (if premium)
• Clunky interface
• Need premium for a lot of basic features (e.g. changing colors, removing branding logo, etc.)

ResumeGenius

ResumeGenius is a clean online resume builder that wastes no time in letting you customize your resume.

You start by choosing a resume template ( Word or PDF ), then answer a few questions about your background (work experience, education, etc.). 

The builder is a bit misleading though - they make you fill in everything on your resume, and in the end, they hit you with a paywall - $1.95 for a 14 day period.

If you’re going for this option, make sure to cancel your subscription, or they’re going to start charging you $39.95 at the end of the first 14 days! 

Regardless of your work experience, the software was designed to generate a complete resume for every kind of job seeker.

Throughout the process of creating a resume, the website helps you format it in detail and gives you tips and tricks along the way..

For each section of your resume, ResumeGenius helps you think of what you should write where and how to format it accordingly.

Finally, if needed, they also have a “ask an expert” option for the pro plan, in which a professional resume expert will go over your resume, and review it for accuracy and clarity.

• 14 day access: $ 1.95, then $39.95/m
• Annual payment: $95.40/year
• Unlimited resumes, cover letters, and downloads
• Resume critique and feedback from an expert
• Track your resume analytics
• Freemium templates available: 0
• Paid templates available: 17
• Straightforward, easy to work with resume builder
• Resume templates look and feel unique, and there are a lot of options depending on where you’re applying
• No freemium option
• Expensive compared to other options (after the 14 day access)
• Can’t edit certain resume layout details (e.g.month formatting), and this can lead to inconsistency

Resume-now uses a tried-and-tested resume templates to help you land your dream job twice as fast.

You can choose between regular templates, or pick ones created for specific fields and industries.

You choose a template and fill in the information about your background manually, but beyond that - you’re on your own.

This resume builder doesn’t come with a content optimizer, so if you’re new to resumes, it might be a bit hard.

• 14 day trial: $ 1.95, then $39.90/m
• Premium plan: $39.90/m
• Access to all format downloads (PDF, MS Word, Plain text)
• Multiple versions of resume and cover letter
• Salary calculator
• Premium templates available: 15
• Can freely rearrange resume sections
• Pre-written text available for resume and cover letter, depending on the job role
• Not a lot of resources and tips as you create the resume
• Expensive compared to other options after the trial
• Assumes you already know how to structure and format resume details

GotResumeBuilder

GotResumeBuilder is a free online resume builder that has a little bit of everything for everyone.

At first, it looks like an extremely straightforward resume builder, with each resume section set up as tabs which you can modify as you move through the resume.

But once you get into the details of the resume builder, you can see where exactly it shines.

Once you start filling out your resume sections, the site starts giving you suggestions based on the keywords used.

If you’re not sure what to write, this is an extremely intuitive way to phrase your job descriptions.

Other than that, you can also manage multiple resumes , organize and rearrange your resume sections, and manage multiple formats .

With each section, you also get a real-time guide and hints on what to include and how.

For a free online resume builder, you’re getting a lot of features and options.

• Free templates available: 6
• A lot of detailed tips and how-tos for each section for a free resume builder
• Can download resume as PDF, Word, ODT, Text, or email it from site
• Extremely intuitive and simple - ideal for students and entry-level jobs
• Very basic templates
• Little customization in terms of color and design
• Not a lot of features for advanced job seekers with experience

Key Takeaways

There are a lot of online resume builders out there.

Realistically, all of them can get the job done. Whichever one you end up using, you’ll end up with a functional resume at the end of the day.

Picking the right resume builder and the right resume template, though, can have a huge impact on whether you get hired or not.

So, to help you pick, consider the following points:

• Is it affordable ? 
• Does it have a fitting design and all the features you need (e.g cover letter, template customization, etc.)?
• Does it come with a content analyzer to help you fill in your resume?
• Does the resume builder come with a range of different template options?
• Is the resume template you’re going for the right one for your field?

If you’re not sure and need further guidance on how to build your resume, be sure to check out our career blog for more practical and actionable advice 

Suggested readings:

• How to Write a Resume & Land That Job [21+ Examples]
• What to Put on a Resume [7+ Job-Winning Sections]
• How to Write a Cover Letter & Get the Job [5+ Real-Life Examples]

To provide a safer experience, the best content and great communication, we use cookies. Learn how we use them for non-authenticated users.

The 17 Best Free Resume Builders We've Ever Discovered

Published: April 25, 2024

According to GetFive, only 30% of resumes are approved by applicant tracking systems (ATS). Once the resumes are approved, a hiring manager will only spend an average of six seconds reading each resume.

If those stats stress you out, I hear you. Writing a great resume that gets you noticed is tough — that’s why I’m here to encourage you to try a resume builder.

In this post, I've compiled a list of the best free resume builders that will help you create a personalized professional resume that passes ATS, stands out to the hiring manager, and helps you land your next job interview.

Why use a resume builder?

Writing a polished resume is second nature for some job applicants. But for others (and maybe most of us), creating a strong resume can be a struggle.

If you're one of the many people who need a little extra support, here are a few ways I think a resume builder can help out.

Resume builders offer templates, clean designs, and tips that speed up resume writing. They also make the process less stressful.

Offers Writing Tips

It takes a lot of work to promote yourself. And even if you enjoy self-promotion, writing isn't a skill everyone has. A resume builder can help you use the best words and phrases to show your experience and knowledge.

Improves Design

Each industry has different expectations for what a great resume looks like. If you're not familiar with design skills or tools, resume builders offer free templates to make your resume look as good as it sounds.

Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS)

Recruiters often use ATS systems to scan resumes. And a good resume builder will help with formatting to make sure that your resume is easy for these systems to read.

Best Free Resume Builders

• Zety: Best for Expert Resume Creation Tips
• Resume Genius: Best for Easy and Fast Resume Creation
• Wepik: Best for Customizing Pre-Made Resumes
• My Perfect Resume: Best for Guided Resume Creation Help
• Standard Resume: Best for Active LinkedIn Users
• Kickresume: Best for Quick and AI-Assisted Resume Creation
• Canva: Best for Design Creativity and Expression
• Pixpa: Best for Creating Online Resume Websites
• Indeed: Best for In-Platform Job Seekers
• Resume.com: Best for Minimalist Resume Creation
• Novoresume: Best for ATS-Friendly Resume Building
• VisualCV: Best for Multimedia Resumes
• CakeResume: Best for Resumes With an Online Portfolio
• Resume Now: Best for Time-Saving Resume Creation
• ResumeNerd: Best for Resume Writing Help
• Jofibo: Best for Comprehensive Guides
• Hloom: Best for Resume Templates

We’ve discovered the best free resume builders on the market. These resume builders are great for all jobseekers, from entry-level to executive level.

Each free resume builder has a simple interface, customization options, and templates that help you create the perfect resume for your next job.

Featured Resource : HubSpot Resume Templates

12 Free Customizable Resume Templates

Fill out this form to access your free professionally-designed templates, available on:

• Microsoft Word
• Google Docs
• Microsoft PowerPoint
• Google Slides

You're all set!

Click this link to access this resource at any time.

2. Resume Genius : Best for Easy and Fast Resume Creation

8. Pixpa : Best for Creating Online Resume Websites

Don't forget to share this post!

Related articles.

40 Free Resume Templates for Microsoft Word (& How to Make Your Own)

27 of the Best Professional Bio Examples I've Ever Seen [+ Templates]

Portfolios vs. Resumes — The Complete Guide

40 Interests That Deserve a Place on Your Resume

Making the Most of Electronic Resumes (Pro Tips and Tricks)

How to Write a Simple, Effective Resume (+20 Examples)

How to Write the Perfect Project Manager Resume

How to Write the Perfect Resume for Internships

Maximize Your Impact: 205 Action Verbs to Use on Your Resume

How Far Back Should a Resume Go? Everything You Need to Know

Resume templates to create a killer resume for your job application.

Marketing software that helps you drive revenue, save time and resources, and measure and optimize your investments — all on one easy-to-use platform

There are quite a few free online resume sites, but some are MUCH better than others.

Some also appear to be free but will make you pay at the very end or you won’t be able to download your newly-created resume.

So in this article, I’m going to review the 10 best resume sites that offer completely free resume builders.

These are the websites that offer the best resume templates, best building software and user experience, and don’t charge you to download a printable resume.

Top 10 Free Online Resume Builders

1. cultivated culture.

Cultivated Culture provides free tools and information to job seekers. It’s run by Austin Belcak, who’s spent his recent career developing formulas for crafting effective resumes, writing engaging cover letters, and landing high-paying jobs at some of the world’s top companies.

His free resume builder includes eight resume templates that are ATS friendly , full design customization, and expert advice throughout the process to help you craft the perfect resume.

The tool is user-friendly and makes writing a resume simple. Here’s how it works:

• Choose your resume template.
• Select a color scheme.
• Create your resume. You’ll be able to add information to the various sections of your resume , including personal information, experience, education, and skills . You can remove and add sections as needed.
• Once you’re happy with your resume click “Finalize.” Here you’ll be able to adjust the font size, line spacing, and margins.
• Download your resume as a PDF or Word file, or save it to your Google Drive.

You can use this tool to build an unlimited number of resumes.

Cultivated Culture also offers two other free tools that will help you develop a more professional resume. They have a scanner that offers suggestions and keywords based on your desired role and also provides a feature to help you write more effective bullet points.

2. NovoResume

NovoResume is an online resume builder that offers eight free templates to choose from, a content optimizer, pre-written resume samples, a cover letter builder, and templates for your cover letter.

After you choose one of their resume template options you’re taken straight into their resume builder. You have to sign up for a free account before continuing, but this just takes a moment.

The free version of NovoResume allows you to build one single-page resume. Click on any of the resume sections to edit and customize it however you like. You can also change the font, template, design, or layout throughout the process if you’re not happy with the way it’s looking. 

If you want a little more flexibility you can upgrade to the premium resume builder, which lets you create unlimited resumes and gives you access to additional fonts, templates, and various customization options.

3. LiveCareer

LiveCareer offers a free resume builder designed by certified resume writers. They also offer example resumes, templates, a cover letter builder, cover letter templates, and everything else you need to build an eye-catching resume.

The first thing you’ll notice about their resume builder is the number of templates they offer. There are over 30 templates to choose from, which gives you the freedom to create a resume that suits you. They’ll also recommend templates for you, based on your level of experience and the job title you’re applying for.

Once you choose one of their templates you have the choice of starting from scratch or uploading your current resume for LiveCareer to reformat. 

When creating a new resume, the resume builder will walk you through each section one at a time and ask you to provide the required information. During the resume-building process, LiveCareer will suggest bullet points that are related to the job titles you list in your work experience.

They’ll even provide a pre-written summary for you based on all the information you provide (although you also have the option to write your own summary if you like).

After you’re done you can download your resume to your computer in a PDF, Word document, or plain text. 

With LiveCareer’s free resume builder, you can make multiple resumes and download them in plain text format. However, if you want unlimited downloads in Word or PDF you’ll need to upgrade to one of their premium options. While there isn’t a free 30-day trial, for just $2.95 you can try it for 14 days. However, after 14 days, the plan auto-renews at $23.95, billed every 4 weeks, unless you cancel it .

Zety offers all the tools you need to build a resume that will catch an employer’s attention. In addition to their online resume builder, they give you access to over 20 resume templates, writing tips, pre-written examples, a cover letter builder, templates for your cover letters, and more. 

Once you select one of their resume templates, you can choose to start a resume from scratch or build off of an existing document (Zety will reformat it for you).

You’ll find Zety and LiveCareer’s resume builders are virtually identical (they seem to be built on the same platform), and they have all the same features and download options. Zety also has the same payment structure, where to download multiple resumes or gain access to their more advanced tool options, you’ll need to purchase a premium subscription.

5. USA Jobs

USA Jobs provides the best resume builder software when applying for government jobs.

Their online resume builder is geared toward the exact application process and requirements of the typical government role.

(And those requirements are quite overwhelming if you haven’t applied to many government jobs in the past, so it’s fantastic that their software helps.)

You’ll need to set up an account with USA Jobs to get started, but it’s well worth it.

After joining, follow these steps to start creating a resume for government jobs:

• Sign into your account.
• Go to your Documents.
• Click “Upload” if you want to edit an existing resume or “Build Resume” if you want to create a new one.

From here, you can add text to the various sections of your resume (work experience, previous job title, education, references, etc.). There’s also a section where you can add additional information, like job training, languages, and affiliations. Once you finish your resume you’ll be able to access it in your documents list and can use it to apply to various government positions.

The big difference between USA Jobs’s resume builder and other similar tools is the amount of information it asks you to include. For example, federal government recruiters review, audit, and score a wide variety of information, and this builder ensures you don’t omit anything that the recruiters require for you to be considered.

I found out about this tool through a colleague on LinkedIn, and here’s how they explained it:

So, if you’re applying to any government jobs, this is THE resume builder to use .

6. My Perfect Resume

My Perfect Resume offers free resume builder software and over 30 proven resume templates to help you get started. They also provide a resume optimizer, cover letter builder, cover letter templates, and several different customization options to help you land your dream job.

This resume builder uses the same platform as LiveCareer and Zety. You start by indicating how long you’ve been working and based on that My Perfect Resume will recommend a few templates for you. Then they’ll walk you through each section so you can fill in the correct information. They’ll offer suggestions along the way and will even write your bullets for you if you wish.

Once you’ve completed the process you can download your resume as a PDF, Word document, or plain text file. To enjoy unlimited downloads in Word or PDF, you’ll need to upgrade to a paid account. There is no free trial, but a 14-day full access for $2.95. After two weeks, the subscription auto-renews at $23.95 billed every 4 weeks, unless you cancel it.

7. Resume.com

Resume.com is a completely free resume builder. They also offer information on how to write an effective cover letter, career advice for job seekers, and more.

Their resume builder is simple to use:

• Enter the type of job you want to apply for.
• Choose a resume template. Resume.com offers 15 different templates.
• Click on each section of the template to edit it. Tips are provided for each section to help you craft the perfect resume.
• When you’re finished, you can choose to print or download your resume as a PDF or text file.

In addition to resume building, Resume.com partnered with Indeed. You’ll use a single account for both platforms. By creating a resume, you agree to create a public resume on Indeed and to receive job opportunities from employers. However, you can change this at any point.

JobScan is known mainly for its flagship software that allows you to match your resume up to the job description before applying (also known as tailoring a resume ).

However, they recently launched a free resume builder that’s among one of the best we’ve seen. It features great resume templates and design options, and it also offers writing guides, cover letter templates, and more.

I’d certainly put this among the free best resume-making sites available right now.

Once you begin, their resume builder gives you the option of building a resume from scratch or editing an existing file. You can even download your LinkedIn profile as a PDF and parse it as an “existing resume.”

If you choose to create a new resume you’ll start by picking one of the three resume templates they have to offer. Then you’ll simply fill in the required information for each section of the resume. Additionally, unlike other resume builders, Jobscan offers 15 Google Docs resume templates, designed by their team.

JobScan provides labeled fields for all the details you need to provide for every section, and a number of these fields are required to ensure you don’t miss anything.

If you already have a resume you’re reasonably happy with you can upload it to the resume builder and JobScan will reformat it and fill in your information based on what’s provided in your resume.

Once you’re done building your professional resume you’ll have the option to scan it based on the job you’re applying for.

JobScan will give your resume a grade ( match rate score) that’s judged on several factors, including skills match, education match, ATS tips, keywords, word count, and more. Based on these results, you’ll be able to build a resume that’s perfectly suited to the job you’re applying for.

9. Kickresume

Kickresume is one of the best resume builders I was able to find while researching. You’ll have to create an account before using it, however, this process only takes a moment.

Once you’re inside the resume builder you have the option of starting a resume from scratch, importing your resume from your LinkedIn profile, using one of their example resumes, or creating a new resume with AI.

Click on the different sections and fill in the fields to make your resume. You can also add and remove sections to personalize the document.

Click “Customization” along the left-hand side to change the colors, format, font, and template. There’s also an option to have it proofread by a professional, although there is a charge for this service.

When you’re happy with your resume, click “Download” to export it as a PDF file or Word doc, email it to yourself, or save it to Dropbox.

Kickresume also has a premium option. The free option should be good enough for most, as it allows you to build unlimited resumes and gives you access to plenty of resume examples and pre-written phrases for you to use.

But if you want access to all the resume templates and tools you might want to consider the premium option. You can choose a monthly, quarterly, or yearly plan. While they don’t have a free trial they do offer a 14-day money-back guarantee.

Indeed is known mostly as a job search tool to find employment opportunities in your local area. However, the company also offers a free resume builder to help job seekers perfect their resume before applying for postings.

Once you choose one of their eight different templates you’re taken to the resume builder where you can edit the document. You can switch templates at any time, adjust the color scheme, and add or remove sections. Once you’re satisfied with what you created about can download your resume as a PDF file.

While there are better resume builders out there, if you’re looking for a quick and easy way to create a resume, this one is a good choice.

Caution: Before Using ANY Online Resume Builder

There’s one more piece of information you should know before acting on ANY of the online resume builder reviews above.

In my experience, too many job seekers focus on an eye-catching resume design when applying for jobs or emailing recruiters , but they don’t put enough focus on writing great content and information that will appeal to the reader. So no matter which of these top 10 resume builders you choose, focus mostly on the text and information you add, not the design.

In fact, I still recommend a single-column layout.

And the truth is, if I were creating my own resume today, I’d use a regular Word template, not any online software or tool.

I discussed this with a colleague on LinkedIn here:

Microsoft Office has good templates available , and Hloom is another good site for templates.

I can understand if you don’t want to tinker with resume formatting , spacing, etc., and everything that comes with creating it in a Word doc, but that’s what I’d personally do.

Just keep this in mind when choosing any drag-and-drop software above; you should always pick a design that lets you focus on the content and info because that’s what employers want to see. Don’t choose a format that doesn’t give much space to describe your recent work, accomplishments, etc.

Because the FIRST place I look as a recruiter is your work history, under your one or two most recent roles.

I’d also never recommend a resume layout that doesn’t begin with your employment history on the top half of page 1.

Employment experience is often the first thing hiring managers look for (unless you’re an entry-level job seeker), and you should never make them scroll far down the page (or look on page 2) to find it.

Conclusion: Choosing the Best Online Resume Site for You

There isn’t one single best resume builder for all people in all industries, but the 10 choices above provide good, basic options that are user-friendly and will impress hiring managers.

I recommend visiting a few of the sites above and seeing which builder and templates look best to you. Each site offers different features/options, so you’ll want to get a sense of which one feels best to you before creating and downloading a resume.

And if you read my “Caution” statement above and decide to build your own resume in a document rather than in an online app, I have many free resources to help you here.

About the Author

Read more articles by Biron Clark

More Resume Tips & Guides

Crafting the perfect resume for teens (template & expert advice), how to beat applicant tracking systems with your resume, what do recruiters look for in a resume, what happens when you lie on your resume 10 risks, don’t say you’re a quick learner on your resume, guide to resume sections, titles, and headings, 12 resume formatting tips from a professional, how artificial intelligence (ai) is changing resume writing, 22 resume bullet point examples that get interviews, are resume writers worth it.

• Search Search Please fill out this field.
• Career Planning
• Finding a Job

Best Resume Writing Services

Let’s Eat, Grandma is our pick for the best overall resume writing service

We independently evaluate all recommended products and services. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation. Learn more .

Looking for a job can be stressful, and finding ways to stand out from other job-seekers is often difficult. Writing a quality resume is challenging, time-consuming, and requires a lot of effort. Instead of stressing out, one option is to have a professional do it for you.

To choose the best resume writing services, we evaluated nearly a dozen companies based on their pricing, customer service, certifications, and guarantees, in addition to the quality, design, and formatting of their work on a test resume. Here are our top picks.

Best Resume Writing Services of 2024

• Best Overall: Let’s Eat, Grandma
• Runner-Up: Monster.com
• Best Price: The Muse
• Best Customer Service: TopResume
• Best Guarantees: ZipJob
• Best Advanced Writers: iHire
• Our Top Picks

Let’s Eat, Grandma

• Monster.com
• See More (3)

Final Verdict

• Compare Services

Methodology

Best overall : let’s eat , grandma.

• Price: $439 and up
• Cover Letter: With $549 plan
• LinkedIn Rewrite: With $689 plan

Special Offer Take $75 off a Starter, Accelerated, or Premium Package from Let's Eat, Grandma using the code BALANCE75 at checkout.

We chose LEG as our best overall due to the high-quality resume the company produced when we tested the service. Several sections of our test resume were among the best that we received from all providers tested. Overall, LEG produced a top-quality document in a timely fashion.

Easy sign-up process

Created a great resume

Includes a cover letter

Slightly longer turnaround time

Resume summary was lengthy

Resume layout was a bit dense on one page

Let’s Eat, Grandma, (LEG) was founded by brothers Chris and Matt Villanueva in 2014. The Villanuevas realized that job searching could be one of the most stressful times of a person’s life and sought to help candidates in their search. The company provides career advice as well as resume-writing services for active job-seekers.

One of the nice things about LEG’s resume writing service is that it includes a cover letter for its Accelerated Package which runs for $549 and includes everything in the Starter Package plus a cover letter, LinkedIn profile recommendations, a cold email, and a thank-you note guide. And, if you want the Premium Package, it includes all features of lower packages, plus a second design for your resume and a LinkedIn rewrite, all for $689. They also offer a new Executive Concierge Service tailored for high level careers for $1,899.

Although the Starter Package, which costs $439, was one of the higher-priced services we reviewed, we felt the option of having a phone conversation included was beneficial.

Runner-Up : Monster.com

• Price: $149 and up
• Cover Letter: With $349 plan
• LinkedIn Rewrite: With $349 plan

Monster.com was a close second to Let’s Eat, Grandma because it produced a test resume that had many outstanding benefits. This included great skills and experience sections and lots of industry-related keywords that would get picked up by an applicant tracking system (ATS).

Great communication with writer

Relatively inexpensive at $149

Brief, easy-to-read paragraphs

One-page resume was a bit cramped

Resume had a few typos

Training and Education sections had some problems

Monster.com is a fairly typical job site, where job seekers apply for jobs and employers post jobs. It was founded by Jeff Taylor in 1994. In 2016, Monster was bought by Randstad Holding, a Netherlands-based human resources (HR) consulting giant.

In addition to its vast database of current job opportunities, Monster offers a resume-writing service with three plans. Under the Basic Plan, you’ll receive a customized resume for $149. If you want a cover letter written for you, the Deluxe plan provides one in addition to a personalized resume for $197. The third plan, Premier, includes a resume, cover letter, and a LinkedIn profile makeover for $349. And, if you’re unhappy with your resume after 60 days, Monster will rewrite it free of charge.

The biggest drawback with Monster was that our test resume included some poor formatting, although that could've been addressed in follow-up discussions.

Best Price : The Muse

• Price: $119 and up
• Cover Letter: Depends on the writer
• LinkedIn Rewrite: Depends on the writer

The Muse earned our pick for the best-priced option because its rates were extremely competitive, especially given the individualized attention that was provided in each of the packages available.

Ability to choose your own writer

Quick turnaround times

Inexpensive pricing

Design and formatting needed some work

Summary paragraph was too long

Education and Training sections were missing information

The Muse is a New York City-based online career platform founded in 2011 by Kathryn Minshew, Alexandra Cavoulacos, and Melissa McCreery. It prides itself on providing career advice to new generations of job-seekers.

The Muse offers three basic plans for cover letter assistance: Mentor, Coach, and Master Coach. The Mentor plan beats out Monster's cheapest plan. For $119 you’ll have the opportunity to chat with a resume writer via Skype or phone before having your resume updated by a professional. Coach costs $225 and includes a 45-minute chat as well as two rounds of edits. Lastly, for $479 Master Coach gives you a 60-minute chat and unlimited rounds of edits for two weeks after receiving the first draft.

We found our writers to be more lenient when it came to revisions and rated them as excellent.

Best Customer Service : TopResume

• Cover Letter: With $219 plan

When we tried the service, our resume writer was responsive to our needs and exceeded the number of revisions stated in the agreement. That's why we chose TopResume as having the best customer service.

Simple signup process

One-page resume had good design and formatting

Summary and Job Scope sections were too long

Training section didn't stand out enough

Jeff Berger founded TopResume in 2014 and has since built a team of more than 1,500 resume writers across the United States.

One nice benefit of TopResume is that you can have your resume scanned free of charge before you decide whether to have it written by a professional. If you opt to move forward, there are three plans from which to choose. Professional Growth is the entry-level package at $149. The second plan is Career Evolution, which at $219 also includes a cover letter and a 60-day guarantee that you’ll land more interviews. Executive Priority costs $349 and includes all of the above plus a LinkedIn profile makeover.

The test resume that we got back from TopResume didn’t quite meet our expectations. The quality of the document was good, but not great, as the Experience and Summary sections seemed a bit short on accomplishments.

Best Guarantees : ZipJob

• Price: $139 and up
• Cover Letter: With $189 plan
• LinkedIn Rewrite: With $299 plan

Our pick as the best for guarantees is ZipJob because it provides a 60-day guarantee that job-seekers will land more interviews within this timeframe. If that doesn't happen, the company will review and rewrite your resume for free.

Resume delivered on time

Skills section contained strong keywords

Easy signup process

Design and format made reading the resume difficult

Summary paragraph was too long and contained clichés

Education and Training sections were poorly formatted

Founded in 2016, ZipJob aims to make the resume writing process "as professional and easy as possible." The company acknowledges that resumes are boring, time-consuming, and a struggle for people to write.

The plans available through ZipJob are modestly priced, starting with Launch. This entry-level plan costs $139 and optimizes your resume for applicant tracking systems. Fast Track is the next plan, at $189, and it includes a cover letter and a 60-day guarantee that you’ll land more interviews within two months. The third plan is Premium, which includes all the features of lower-priced plans, plus expedited delivery for $299.

While the test resume that we received from ZipJob was generally lackluster, the guarantee reduces customer risk.

Best Advanced Writers : iHire

• Price: $395
• Cover Letter: $49.50 extra
• LinkedIn Rewrite: N/A

We chose iHire for best advanced writers because the resume writer we used wrote one of the best resumes we received. The company also has clients complete an extensive questionnaire that helps its writers focus on the proper parts of your resume to highlight.

Strong resume content with impactful writing

Contained brief, easy-to-read paragraphs

Prestigious resume writing credentials

Took 18 days to hear from our resume writer

Most expensive price of the services we reviewed

Required to fill out an eight-page questionnaire

iHire has been in business since 1999, and it specializes in helping both employers and job seekers find the right match. If you’re looking for assistance with your resume, iHire offers a tool to score your resume against jobs, resume critiques, and professionally written resumes.

This company offers a base price of $395, which includes writing services from iHire employees called "Certified Advanced" and "Master Resume" writers. This will ensure you'll be working with top professionals and industry leaders who know which skills and experience employers are looking for. The resume is written and designed to accentuate the client's goals and experience. Users also have the option to pay an additional $49.50 for a cover letter. The fee is a bit pricier than other services, but with iHire you know you'll be getting the most bang for your buck.

Our top resume writing service is Let's Eat, Grandma, which includes a phone conversation in its Starter Package and returned a high-quality resume more quickly than many other services. The resume was professional and impressive enough that we'd be glad to present it to a recruiter.

Monster.com produced a resume nearly as good as the one from LEG, but there is no phone call included. Other companies we reviewed excel in their own ways, and whether you're looking for something inexpensive or you just want professional help along the way, you'll find a resume-writing service that works for you.

Compare the Best Resume Writing Services

Frequently asked questions, what is a resume writing service.

Resume writing services are companies or freelancers who help job-seekers improve the quality of their resumes so they stand out from other candidates. Though they all share this common goal, no two writing services are alike. They all have their own processes designed to provide clients with effective resumes with quick turnaround times and good customer service. The services available from resume writers are also diverse and vary across plans. However, all of them are designed to help candidates land more interviews.

How Do Resume Writing Services Work?

Customers typically are required to complete a questionnaire so the company can develop an understanding of what you do and where you are in your career , and find the best writer for your situation. A good resume writer will establish contact via phone and email and take some time to review your goals and accomplishments and ask questions about your career.

The final stage is receiving your resume from the writer.

How Much Does a Resume Writing Service Cost?

The price of having a resume written from scratch or rewritten varies. The lowest price we paid was $119, and the highest price we saw was $649. You’ll find resume writing services that will charge less and some that will charge more. The resume writing service that did the best job for us charged $399, mostly because of the resume they produced but also because it provided us with a cover letter as well.

Is Hiring a Resume Writing Service Worth the Cost?

A resume writing service is worth the cost if it provides great customer service and, most importantly, delivers a great document. However, in all of our reviews, we found the number of companies that actually do this to be relatively small. Some offered great customer service but a subpar resume, while some rewrote a strong resume but lacked in customer service.

To decide whether a resume writing service is right for you, query other job seekers in your personal network or on social networks like LinkedIn . Look at the services’ sample resumes as well.

What Is the Best Executive Resume Writing Service?

This ultimately comes down to personal preference, but iHire might be the best option for executives because it offers the most experienced resume writers of the services we reviewed. It also has one of the most extensive questionnaires, so writers should have a clear idea what to accentuate. Let's Eat, Grandma also is a good choice for executives because of the personal attention provided and the quality of the resume we received.

To find the best resume writing services, we used a comprehensive methodology to review and evaluate nearly a dozen companies that are available nationwide. We then chose several to review more in-depth using a test resume. We contracted with each of these services and reviewed their offerings based on pricing, customer service, certifications, and guarantees.

After we received the final test projects, we rated the quality of each section (Summary, Skills, Experience, Training, and Education) as well as the overall design and formatting. We combined all of the scores for these factors to establish overall ratings for each provider and make our top picks.

peepo / Getty Images

Zippia. " Monster Worldwide History: Founding, Timeline, and Milestones ."

10 Best Resume Builders to Create A Great Resume – 2024 Guide

A re you exhausted from investing endless hours into creating an impeccable CV? This article introduces the top resume builders that will revolutionize your job application approach. Bid farewell to monotonous formatting and greet a remarkable resume that distinguishes itself from the rivalry. Prepare yourself to secure your dream job with self-assurance effortlessly!

>> Unlock Your Career Potential With Super Star Resume

10 Best Resume Writing Services

• Super Star Resume - Best overall
• ZipJob - Best for guarantees
• Resumeble - Best with custom bundles
• Let’s Eat, Grandma - Best for range of career service
• ResumeSpice - Best for job seekers of any level
• TopResume - Best customer service
• Resume Writing Services - Best for affordability
• Craft Resumes - Best for quick turnaround
• Resume Companion - Best value resume writing service
• Resume.com - Best free service

When creating this compilation, we considered different elements such as affordability, ease of use, accessibility, the privacy policies of the companies involved, and more. The highest-rated services offer advice, templates, and tools and allow you to consult with experts who can help you craft an impressive resume highlighting your strengths to potential employers.

Our collection comprises free services and those that make use of professional writers’ skills. Some options require a subscription or one-time payment.

>> Secure Your Dream Job With Super Star Resume

Super Star Resume - Best Resume Builder Overall

Star Rating: 4.9/5

Super Star Resume is an innovative resume builder that completely transforms creating professional resumes. By offering a user-friendly interface and a range of powerful features, Super Star Resume enables individuals to produce exceptional resumes that effectively showcase their abilities, accomplishments, and work history.

• Skilled and seasoned writers
• Customized strategy aligned with unique career objectives
• Timely delivery of resumes
• More significant expense compared to certain other resume writing services
• Restricted selection of additional services
• Availability may be restricted depending on demand and geographic location
• Intuitive resume builder: An intuitive interface that simplifies the resume creation process, offering modern templates for a professional look.
• Customization choices: Users can personalize their resumes by selecting from various font styles, colors, layouts, and sections to align with their unique style.
• Comprehensive content suggestions: Access to a collection of expertly curated bullet points, action verbs, and industry-specific phrases to craft impactful resume content.
• Real-time previews and editing: Real-time previewing and editing capabilities ensure a visually appealing and error-free final resume.
• Integration with professional networking platforms: Integration with LinkedIn allows users to maintain consistency between their online presence and resume.
• Tailored resumes for different job applications: The duplication feature facilitates the creation of multiple resume versions, each customized for specific job applications or industries.
• Resume analytics and tracking: Users can monitor the views and downloads of their resumes, gaining valuable insights to optimize their job search strategies.
• Professional Resume : $169
• Resume With Cover Letter : $199
• All-Included : $199

>> Use Super Star Resume to Secure Your Dream Job

ZipJob - Best Resume Builder for Guarantees

Star Rating: 4.7/5

ZipJob is widely regarded as an excellent option for resume creation, especially for those who value guarantees. Their impressive 60-day assurance ensures that individuals searching for employment will experience a surge in interview invitations within this period.

If this desired outcome cannot materialize, ZipJob proactively offers a complimentary review and revision of your resume. This guarantee highlights their commitment to client contentment and showcases their unwavering belief in the superior quality of their resume writing services.

• The starting package is cost-effective
• Complimentary ATS check included
• 60-day interview assurance with higher-tier packages
• The design and layout made it challenging to read the resume
• The summary section was overly lengthy and filled with clichés
• The formatting of the education and training sections was subpar
• Expert resume writers: ZipJob provides access to a team of expert resume writers with the skills and knowledge to review, evaluate, and optimize your resume for compatibility with Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) and hiring managers.
• ATS optimization: Meaning they ensure your resume is structured and formatted to navigate and succeed in ATS filters effectively. Employers commonly use these filters to assess and rank resumes during the initial screening process.
• Keyword optimization: The resume builder online offered by ZipJob assists you in identifying and integrating pertinent keywords and industry-specific terminology. This practice heightens the visibility of your resume, making it more likely to capture the attention of hiring managers.
• Job-specific content suggestions: ZipJob provides valuable advice regarding the most relevant and influential content to include in your resume for different job titles and industries. This guidance is invaluable in customizing your resume for specific roles.
• Cover letter writing assistance: ZipJob supports the creation of impactful cover letters that complement your resume, strengthening your overall job application.
• Unlimited revisions: One noteworthy feature of ZipJob is the option for unlimited revisions and updates to your resume. This ensures that your resume not only meets but continues to meet your specific requirements and mirrors your professional growth.
• Collaboration with resume writers: the platform facilitates direct collaboration with the resume writers, enabling you to share additional information, discuss specific requirements, and seek clarifications at any stage of the resume creation process.
• Launch Package: $139 (or $48/mo)
• Fast Track Package: $189 (or $65/mo)
• Premium Package: $299 (or $27/mo)

>> Use ZipJob to Secure Your Dream Job

Resumeble - Best Resume Builder With Custom Bundles

Star Rating: 4.3/5

Resumeble is a highly efficient and user-friendly resume builder that empowers individuals to create professional and compelling resumes. With Resumeble, crafting a standout resume becomes a streamlined process thanks to its intuitive interface and extensive range of customizable templates.

Whether you’re a recent graduate, a seasoned professional, or someone looking to change careers, Resumeble caters to all needs and skill sets. It offers helpful suggestions and expert advice to ensure your resume showcases your unique qualifications and achievements in the best possible light.

• A 60-day interview guarantee is included
• Budget-friendly package deals are available
• It’s more established than some other websites
• Keyword optimization: This feature helps optimize your resume by suggesting relevant keywords aligned with your target industry or job, enhancing your visibility to Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) and recruiters.
• Content import: Resumeble allows you to import your existing resume or LinkedIn profile, saving you the time and effort of manual data entry.
• Real-time editing: You have the convenience of editing and modifying your resume in real time, providing the flexibility to experiment with various formats, sections, and content.
• ATS compatibility: Resumeble ensures your resume is ATS-compatible, essential for better visibility and a higher chance of being shortlisted by employers using Applicant Tracking Systems.
• Download options: The platform offers various download formats, including PDF, Word, and plain text, ensuring compatibility with diverse application processes.
• Cover letter builder: Resumeble features an integrated cover letter builder, streamlining the creation of professional and personalized cover letters that complement your resume.
• Career Pro Package : $159.00
• Professional Package : $299.00
• Premium Package : $399.00

>> Use Resumeble to Secure Your Dream Job

Let’s Eat, Grandma - Best Resume Builder for Range of Career Service

Star Rating: 4/5

Let’s Eat, Grandma is an inventive and progressive tool for creating impressive resumes. The platform streamlines the resume-building process, making it easier for job seekers to craft exceptional resumes. With Let’s Eat, Grandma, individuals can create unique resumes that catch the eye of employers and set them apart from the competition.

This user-friendly platform offers a range of customizable templates that allow users to tailor their resumes to showcase their specific skills and experiences. Let’s Eat, Grandma also provides expert advice and recommendations to help ensure that your qualifications and achievements are effectively highlighted in your resume.

• Complimentary resume evaluation
• Choices available for individuals from entry-level to executive-level positions
• Extensive collaboration opportunities
• Not specialized in academic CVs or federal resumes
• Relatively higher pricing compared to some other services
• Potential for a longer turnaround time compared to competing services
• Expert choice: You can save your resume in multiple formats (PDF, Word, plain text) or easily share it with potential employers via email or a link, simplifying the distribution of your resume.
• Error highlighting: The builder can identify potential errors, inconsistencies, or missing information within your resume and provide suggestions or alerts for improvement.
• Section prompts: Pre-written prompts for various resume sections (e.g., work experience, education, skills) can help you structure your resume effectively and ensure you include essential details in each area.
• Customizable sections: You can add, remove, or rearrange sections to tailor your resume to emphasize your strengths and relevant experiences.
• Keyword optimization: The resume builder can recommend industry-specific keywords based on the job description, enhancing your resume’s chances of passing through Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) and grabbing the attention of hiring managers.
• Starter Package : Priced at $439, but there is an anti-inflation sale price of $389.
• Accelerated Package : $549.
• The premium Package : $689, but the anti-inflation sale price is $614.
• Executive Concierge Service : $1,899 or as low as $119/month.

>> Use Let’s Eat, Grandma to Secure Your Dream Job

ResumeSpice - Best Resume Builder for Job Seekers of Any Level

Star Rating: 3.8/5

ResumeSpice , a renowned online resume builder, streamlines crafting professional resumes. This platform provides job seekers with a user-friendly interface and a wide selection of templates, enabling them to create impressive resumes that align with their career objectives.

With ResumeSpice’s seamless experience, users are guided through each resume section effortlessly while receiving valuable tips throughout the process. From personal details and work history to skills and accomplishments, this platform ensures that all crucial aspects of a resume are comprehensively addressed.

• Additional assistance
• Timely service
• ATS optimization
• Guaranteed interviews
• Restricted revisions
• Insufficient customization options
• Restricted refund policy
• User-friendly interface: ResumeSpice boasts an intuitive and user-friendly platform, simplifying the resume creation process and offering a seamless experience to users.
• Extensive template library: The platform offers a vast selection of professionally designed templates tailored to various industries and job positions. Users can explore different styles and layouts to find the perfect match for their needs.
• Import and export options: ResumeSpice enables users to import their existing resumes in formats like PDF or Word for easy editing and updates. Users can conveniently export their finalized resumes in multiple formats, facilitating sharing with employers or uploading to job portals.
• Mobile-friendly design: ResumeSpice is optimized for mobile devices, allowing users to create and modify their resumes using smartphones or tablets.
• Cloud storage: The platform provides secure cloud storage for users’ resumes, ensuring accessibility and updates from any device with an internet connection.
• Resume tracking: ResumeSpice includes tools for tracking the performance of submitted resumes, such as monitoring views, downloads, and application outcomes. These features empower users to evaluate their progress and make data-driven enhancements to their job search strategies.
• Entry Level Resume : $479
• Professional Resume : $589
• Executive Resume : $699

>> Use ResumeSpice to Secure Your Dream Job

TopResume - Best Resume Builder for Customer Service

Star Rating: 3.6/5

TopResume is an outstanding resume builder explicitly tailored for customer service professionals. It offers a seamless and user-friendly experience, enabling users to create exceptional resumes effortlessly. The platform goes beyond just providing a basic resume template, offering valuable suggestions and tips to optimize the content.

This ensures that each resume created on TopResume is unique and attention-grabbing in the highly competitive job market.

Besides its user-friendly interface, TopResume provides expert review services. These services allow skilled professionals to provide personalized feedback on resumes, helping enhance their overall quality further. By leveraging this feedback and incorporating attention to detail, customer service professionals can create compelling resumes that effectively capture the attention of potential employers.

• Streamlined registration process
• Well-designed and formatted one-page resume
• The summary and Job Scope sections were overly extended
• The training section needed to have prominence
• Skill-based sections: The resume builder features dedicated sections highlighting essential customer service skills, including communication, problem-solving, conflict resolution, and relationship building.
• Expert review services: TopResume provides expert review services where experienced professionals offer personalized feedback and recommendations to enhance the overall quality of your resume.
• ATS compatibility: The platform ensures that the resumes created are compatible with Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS), which employers commonly use for scanning and filtering resumes.
• Download and sharing options: Users can download their resumes in various formats, such as PDF or Word, and easily share them with potential employers or upload them to job portals.
• Industry-Specific Tips: TopResume offers industry-specific tips and guidance to assist users in tailoring their resumes to the customer service field, helping them stand out among competitors.
• Cover letter builder: Besides resume building, TopResume provides a builder that empowers users to craft professional and compelling cover letters customized for customer service roles.
• Mobile accessibility: The platform is mobile-friendly, allowing users to create, edit, and update their resumes while on the go, using their smartphones or tablets.
• Entry level : Up to 200$.
• Professional level : Up to 200$-400$.
• Executive level : Up to $350-$700.

>> Use TopResume to Secure Your Dream Job

Resume Writing Services - Best Resume Builder for Affordability

Star Rating: 3.3/5

While Resumewritingservices.org may be a different size than its competitors, it stands out due to its team of talented and experienced resume writers. The website is user-friendly and provides exceptional service. However, this service’s true strength lies in its writers’ expertise.

Resumewritingservices.org sets itself apart by offering a comprehensive consultation process and goes beyond expectations by providing unlimited calls with its resume writers. This personalized approach distinguishes them from other companies and guarantees each client receives individual attention and support.

• Experienced resume writers of the highest caliber
• Unlimited phone consultations and revisions
• More expensive than rival services
• A limited range of products
• Skilled and experienced resume writers: Resumewritingservices.org takes pride in its team of highly trained and professional resume writers who possess a deep understanding of crafting effective resumes.
• Personalized service: Resumewritingservices.org offers a personal touch by providing unlimited calls with their resume writers. This unique feature allows clients to engage in direct communication and close collaboration with the writers throughout the resume creation process.
• Competitive job market expertise: The writers at Resumewritingservices.org have knowledge of current job market trends. This ensures that the resumes they create are optimized to excel in today’s fiercely competitive job market.
• Quality Assurance: The service maintains a rigorous quality assurance process to guarantee that the resumes delivered to clients meet the highest standards and align with their expectations.
• Timely delivery: Resumewritingservices.org is committed to delivering resumes within the agreed-upon timeframe, ensuring clients receive their documents promptly.
• Client satisfaction guarantee: Resumewritingservices.org offers a client satisfaction guarantee, assuring clients are fully content with the final resume. The service is ready to provide revisions if necessary.
• Affordable pricing: Resumewritingservices.org provides pricing options that are competitive and transparent, making professional resume writing accessible to a wide range of job seekers.

Resumewritingservices.org employs a pricing system that is clear and easy to understand for their resume-building services. The initial package begins at $270 , including a comprehensive consultation with a skilled resume writer and developing an individualized resume.

They offer extra options that enable customers to personalize their packages based on their unique preferences. This adaptable pricing strategy guarantees that clients can choose the services that align with their requirements and financial constraints.

>> Use Resume Writing Services to Secure Your Dream Job

Craft Resumes - Best Resume Builder for Quick-Turnaround

Star Rating: 3/5

Craft Resumes stand out as a well-established writing and editing service known for its ability to deliver effective outcomes. Our dedication to providing a 24-hour turnaround guarantees you’ll receive the initial version of your resume promptly.

Navigating our user-friendly website is effortless, making it easy to use our services. At Craft Resumes, we specialize in crafting customized resumes to match your skills, qualifications, and aspirations for your career.

• Speedy completion
• Customized CVs
• Intuitive site
• Insufficient details
• Absence of assurances
• Quick turnaround: Craft Resumes commits to delivering the initial draft of your resume within 24 hours, ensuring a speedy and efficient service.
• Expert Writers: Craft Resumes prides itself on its team of experienced writers who possess expertise across various industries and stay up-to-date with current hiring trends. They’re dedicated to making your resume stand out and catch the attention of potential employers.
• Unlimited revisions: We provide unlimited revisions to guarantee your complete satisfaction. If you have specific changes or additions in mind, our team will collaborate with you closely to implement the modifications.
• Confidentiality and Privacy: At Craft Resumes, we prioritize the confidentiality and privacy of your personal information. You can trust that your data will be handled securely and with the utmost discretion.
• Tailored resumes: We specialize in tailoring resumes to align with your career objectives, industry, and job requirements. Each resume is personalized to accentuate your unique strengths and qualifications.
• Resume Writing : $229.00
• Basic : $279.99
• Optimal : $339.99
• All-In-One : $499.99

>> Use Craft Resumes to Secure Your Dream Job

Resume Companion - Best Value Resume Builder

Star Rating: 2.8/5

Resume Companion is a virtual platform and service that specializes in aiding individuals in creating resumes that are professional and impactful. It offers an array of resources and tools to assist job seekers in crafting interesting resumes that effectively showcase their skills, experiences, and qualifications.

A prominent feature of Resume Companion is its user-friendly resume builder. This tool allows users to select from various professionally designed templates and personalize them based on their specific requirements.

Users can effortlessly incorporate their personal information, employment history, educational background, skill set, and other pertinent details to produce a customized resume tailored to their needs.

• Intuitive user interface
• High-quality templates
• Efficiency-boosting functions
• Cost-effective choice
• Restricted editing features without subscription
• Absence of extensive customization options
• Limited availability of extra services
• Cover letter builder: Resume Companion goes beyond resumes and provides users with a tool for crafting customized cover letters tailored to specific job applications. This feature guides users through the process, helping them effectively present their qualifications and make a compelling case to prospective employers.
• ATS optimization: In today’s job market, many companies use Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) to screen resumes. Resume Companion helps users ensure their resumes are ATS-friendly. The platform offers valuable tips and insights on incorporating relevant keywords, formatting the document correctly, and increasing the likelihood of passing through the ATS screening process.
• Educational resources: Resume Companion extends its services by offering an informative blog and educational materials that cover various aspects of resume writing, job search strategies, interview techniques, and career development guidance. These resources provide users with valuable insights and advice to help them create impressive resumes and enhance their job search efforts.
• Download and sharing options: Upon completing their resumes, users can conveniently download their documents in multiple formats, including PDF and Word. Resume Companion also makes it easy for users to share their resumes online or print them offline.
• Customer support: Resume Companion values user satisfaction and offers customer support to assist with users’ questions or concerns while utilizing the platform. Users can access support through email or the platform’s contact form.

Resume Companion provides a cost-effective solution for individuals seeking an all-inclusive service. It’s vital to remember subscription renewal is required to access future editing services. In summary, Resume Companion offers a wallet-friendly option for those who desire a user-friendly resume-building experience without needing advanced writing abilities.

>> Use Resume Companion to Secure Your Dream Job

Our Ranking Methodology for Best Resume Writing Services

To comprehensively and objectively rank the top resume writing services, it is essential to have a thorough methodology. The first step in this process was conducting extensive research and analysis. This involved gathering a comprehensive list of reputable resume-writing services from multiple sources such as online searches, customer reviews, industry directories, and personal recommendations.

• Feature analysis: Evaluate the functionalities provided by each resume builder, considering elements like template variety and quality, customization flexibility, user-friendly editing and formatting options, import/export capabilities, spell check and grammar tools, and integration with job search platforms and professional networks.
• Template collection: Examine the assortment and quality of templates. Look for a wide range that suits various industries, job levels, and design preferences, considering these templates’ aesthetics, readability, and contemporary design.
• Editing and customization: Scrutinize the adaptability and user-friendliness of the editing and customization tools each resume builder provides. Assess the capacity to add or modify sections, reorganize content, and tailor resumes to specific job requirements.
• User interface and experience: Analyze the user interface and the overall user experience each resume builder offers. Evaluate the ease of navigation, instruction clarity, guidance or prompts, and the platform’s responsiveness.
• Integration with job search platforms: Determine whether resume builders offer seamless integration with popular job search platforms and professional networks like LinkedIn or ATS systems. Consider how well the resumes can be transferred and their compatibility with these platforms.
• Additional resources: Evaluate if the resume builders provide extra resources such as sample resumes, tools for creating cover letters, interview tips, or career advice. Consider the breadth and practicality of these supplementary resources.
• Mobile-friendliness: Gauge the mobile-friendliness and responsiveness of the resume builders, recognizing the growing trend of mobile job searching and application processes.
• Customer support: Reflect on the accessibility and quality of customer support services, encompassing options like live chat, email support, or knowledge bases. Assess the responsiveness and helpfulness of the support team.
• Pricing and value for money: Appraise the pricing plans presented by the resume builders in terms of the value they offer based on features, usability, and overall service quality.
• Industry reputation: Consider the standing and trustworthiness of the resume builders, considering factors such as awards, recognition, partnerships, and user feedback from reputable sources.

Buyer’s Guide: Why Use a Resume Builder?

Crafting a well-crafted CV comes naturally to particular job seekers. However, even the most seasoned experts may need help in resume writing. If you find yourself in need of help with creating a compelling resume, here are several ways in which the best online resume builder can be beneficial:

Resume builders provide users with pre-designed templates and helpful tips, streamlining the process of writing a resume and alleviating stress.

Offers Writing Tips

Promoting oneself requires considerable effort. Only some people possess writing skills, even if they enjoy self-promotion. To showcase one’s experience and knowledge effectively, a resume builder can help select the most appropriate words and phrases.

Improves Design

In every field, there are unique standards for an impressive resume. If you need to gain knowledge in design or the tools, resume builders can provide free templates to enhance your resume’s visual appeal and quality.

Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS)

Recruiters often use ATS systems to scan resumes. A good resume builder will help with formatting to ensure that your resume is easy for these systems to read.

What’s the Best Resume Builder?

The ideal resume builder for each individual may differ according to their specific requirements. If you prefer a tool that offers step-by-step guidance in creating your resume, we suggest using a builder that provides helpful tips and recommendations. If you prefer a resume builder that auto-generates a summary, we recommend using a tool that extracts information from your LinkedIn profile.

For those who enjoy having creative control over their resumes, we suggest using a platform with features. By selecting the resume builder that aligns with your needs and suits your industry and personal style, you’ll significantly increase your chances of capturing the attention of hiring managers.

Resume Builder vs. Resume Writing Service: What Matters for You

When it comes to crafting a resume, there are three options available. You can opt to create it independently, use a resume builder tool, or enlist the services of a professional resume writer. Your best choice will depend on your writing abilities, available time, and financial resources.

Do-It-Yourself

You have the choice to construct a resume entirely by yourself. The benefit of this option is that it costs nothing but requires a significant amount of effort. Along with composing all the information, you must possess graphic design skills.

This approach works well if you have these abilities, but with them, your options for creating a resume are unlimited. To overcome this limitation, you can use a resume builder or enlist the help of a resume writing service.

Resume Builder

A tool for creating resumes allows you to input your details into a template, resulting in an original appearance and layout with no design work. The top resume building tools also offer suggestions on enhancing your resume and tailoring it to match the specific job you are applying for.

While you are still responsible for writing the content, once it is written, you can quickly transfer that information into any other template with just a few simple clicks. Some of these services are free and many like to promote themselves as such, but most require a small payment to download your finished resume.

Professional Resume Writing Service

Professional resume writing services are expensive, but they offer the convenience of handling all the work for you. An experienced writer will gather relevant information about your background and transform it into a unique and engaging resume.

The process typically takes a few days, and the level of originality in the outcome largely relies on your choice of company and writer. However, we will not delve into these services further in this guide.

Are Resume Builders Worth It?

Definitely, without a doubt. An effective resume creator will guarantee that your CV is formatted correctly to navigate Applicant Tracking Systems and ultimately reach the hands of recruiters.

Is It Unprofessional to Use a Microsoft Word Resume Template?

Relying on a template will not set you apart, and there is a high likelihood that your application will be dismissed because your resume is identical to those of other job seekers.

Final Thoughts

Choosing the right resume builder is crucial in today’s competitive job market. Creating a professional and impactful resume that stands out from the crowd can significantly impact your job search. With the right tool, you can save time, improve your chances of landing an interview, and ultimately secure your dream job.

When selecting a resume builder, consider your specific needs and priorities. Look for features like customizable templates, industry-specific examples, and the ability to export your resume in different formats. Consider user reviews and ratings to ensure you choose a reputable and reliable platform.

Remember, an exceptional tool for crafting resumes should give you the power to present your skills, experience, and accomplishments effectively. It should simplify and expedite creating a resume without hassle. Investing in a reliable resume builder is investing in your professional future.

Therefore, explore the different options available for resume builders. Test out their free trials or demos and choose the best fit for your objectives. Our top recommendation is Super Star Resume . This meticulously designed resume can open doors to exciting career prospects and be a dependable companion on your journey toward success.

Ahad Waseem is a business, blockchain, and cybersecurity writer who often takes on art, politics, and economics too. As a linguistic engineer who writes to solve problems, he’s written for various tech and business publications. When he’s not writing, he’s probably on horseback, caring for his houseplants, or training Bonsai trees. He can be reached at [email protected] . McClatchy’s newsrooms were not involved in the creation of this content. We may earn a commission if you make a purchase through one of our links.

©2023 Miami Herald. Visit miamiherald.com. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

Explore Jobs

• Jobs Near Me
• Remote Jobs
• Full Time Jobs
• Part Time Jobs
• Entry Level Jobs
• Work From Home Jobs

Find Specific Jobs

• $15 Per Hour Jobs
• $20 Per Hour Jobs
• Hiring Immediately Jobs
• High School Jobs
• H1b Visa Jobs

Explore Careers

• Business And Financial
• Architecture And Engineering
• Computer And Mathematical

Explore Professions

• What They Do
• Certifications
• Demographics

Best Companies

• Health Care
• Fortune 500

Explore Companies

• CEO And Executies
• Resume Builder
• Career Advice
• Explore Majors
• Questions And Answers
• Interview Questions

How To Write A Resume In 7 Steps (With Examples)

• How To Write A Resume
• Resume Skills Section
• Resume Objective Section
• Career Objective Section
• Resume Reference Section
• Resume Summary Section
• Resume Summary Example
• Resume Interests Section
• Address On Resume
• Relevant Work Experience
• Anticipated Graduation Date On Resume
• Education Section On Resume
• Contact Information On Resume
• Statement Of Qualifications
• How To List Publications On Resume
• Accomplishments On Resumes
• Awards On Resume
• Dean's List On Resume
• Study Abroad On Resume

Resumes are still the most important document in your job search . Generating a professional and interesting resume isn’t easy, but there is a standard set of guidelines that you can follow. As hiring managers usually only spend a short time looking over each resume, you want to make sure that yours has a reason for them to keep reading.

If you’re looking to write a resume, rewrite a resume you already have, or are just curious about resume format, then you’ve come to the right place. This article will go through the steps to writing an excellent resume, as well as offering examples for what sections of the resume should look like.

Key Takeaways:

A resume is a short document that details your professional history in a way that tailors your experience and skill set for the particular job you’re applying for.

Resumes follow a few standard formatting practices, which hiring managers and recruiters expect to see.

Highlighting your work experience, skills, and educational background with relevant keywords can help you get past applicant tracking systems and into more interviews.

How to write a resume

Writing a resume involves using the proper formatting, writing an introduction, and adding your work experience and education. Stuffing your entire professional life into a single page resume can feel overwhelming, but remember that you’re distilling the relevant parts of your professional experience in order to catch the eye of the recruiter .

Formatting your resume. To start, use a word processor such as Microsoft Word or Google docs. Standard resume formatting calls for:

1 inch margins

10-12 point font

A professional, commonly-used font

Additionally, there are three resume formats that are commonly used. Most people should stick with a chronological resume format , but the combination resume format and functional resume format can be effective for more advanced workers or those who have significant gaps in their resume.

Write a resume header . It doesn’t matter if you have the best resume in the world if the hiring manager can’t contact you. Every single resume should include the following contact information:

Your full name. First and last.

Your phone number. Use a personal phone number, and make sure your voicemail is set up properly.

Your email address. Nothing inappropriate — [email protected] is a safe choice.

Location. City, State, Zip Code is fine, but you can include your full mailing address if you think it’s appropriate.

Your social media (optional). LinkedIn is the obvious one you’d want to include, but make sure your profile looks good. If you have an online portfolio , either on a personal blog/website or on a site like Journo Portfolio , feel free to include that here as well.

Your job title. Also optional, but can be useful for applicant tracking systems.

Resume introduction. You have four options for your resume introduction: a resume objective, summary statement, resume profile, or qualifications summary. For most job-seekers, a resume summary statement is the best choice. Regardless of which resume introduction you choose, avoid first-person pronouns (I/me/my).

Resume objective. A resume objective is the goal of your resume. Since the objective of every resume is to land a job, this is not the most original or impressive opener you can have.

On the other hand, it’s a good choice for an entry-level applicant or someone who is changing career paths . This should be a 1-3 sentence summary of why you’re motivated to get the position you’re applying for.

Who should use a resume objective: Entry-level applicants, career-changers, and recent college graduates.

Resume summary. This is the best opener for most job-seekers. As the name suggests, a resume summary highlights the most salient aspects of your resume.

It should include your current position, how many years of experience you have, some of your biggest achievements, and possibly your career goals. This should be a 1-3 sentence spiel and should include some quantifiable experiences.

Who should use a resume summary: Most job seekers; anyone with quantifiable accomplishments to emphasize and a broad range of skills.

Qualifications summary. A bullet point list (4-6 points is the sweet spot) of your qualifications for the position. It’s best used by applicants going for jobs that require a fixed skill set. It’s not a great choice for entry-level applicants who lack quantifiable achievements.

You’ll notice that a qualifications summary takes up more space than a resume objective or summary, but it can actually save the hiring manager time if you provide a bunch of valuable information right off the top.

Who should use a qualifications summary: Those applying to a job with requirements for certain skills and job-seekers who have a lot of experience in their industry and/or field.

Resume profile. A resume profile is similar to a resume summary, but goes into more detail about your accomplishments at your current or former job, while also telling the reader about your career goals. Think of a resume profile as a section that pulls all the best parts of your work experience section into one place.

Who should use a resume profile: Anyone with significant accomplishments under their belt, expertise in a niche field, or applying to a job in the same industry that they have lots of experience in.

Resume headline. Resume headlines aren’t necessary, but you can include one alongside any of the four types of resume introduction listed above. A resume headline comes between your contact information and the resume introduction of your choice.

Headlines can be used by entry-level applicants and experienced job-seekers alike. The important point is that your headline should be short and to the point. Additionally, you should use title case when writing your resume headline (capitalize words as you would for a book title).

Who should use a resume headline: Any job-seeker who wants to showcase their experience or unique value right off the bat.

Work experience. Your work experience section is the place to let hiring managers know that you have relevant experience that would allow you to handle the job you’re applying for.

If you’re using the chronological resume format, your work experience section would come after your resume summary/objective. In a funcitonal reumse, it would follow your skills section. Either way, work experience should be listed in reverse-chronological order (most recent experience at the top).

When listing your work experience, you should include all of the following information:

Job title. Start by stating the position you held at the company. These are easy cue for the hiring manager to look at and determine whether your past positions would help you succeed at their company.

Company Info. Include the name of the employer, the location where you worked, and perhaps a brief description of the company, if it isn’t a well-known name.

Dates Employed: Use the mm/yyyy format if you want to be sure that most applicant tracking systems (ATS) will pick it up. Whatever format you use for dates, be consistent, or your resume will look sloppy.

Job Description. Don’t just list your job’s responsibilities; hiring managers and recruiters already have an idea of your duties based on the job title. Instead, list your most important and impressive responsibilities/achievements at the job with bullet points. Determine which of these are most relevant for your new role based on the job description.

Ideally, each bullet should be no longer than a single line. However, two lines is acceptable, if used sparingly.

Always start with a strong action verb, followed by a quantifiable achievement and a specific duty. For example: “Developed ad campaigns for clients, increasing sales by an average of 27%.” Each job title should include 3-5 bullet points.

The order that you include this information can be changed around, as long as you are consistent throughout your resume. However, the bullet points detailing your job’s achievements should always be the last item for each entry.

It’s important that you tailor your resume’s work experience section to the job you’re applying for. We recommend reading the job description carefully and highlighting the action verbs in one color and the skills, adjectives, and job-specific nouns in a different color.

Educational background. In almost all cases, your education section should come after your professional history. If you’re a recent college graduate with limited work experience, you may choose to put your educational achievements first.

Like the section on your professional history, educational experiences should come in reverse-chronological order, with your highest level of education at the top. If you have a college degree, you don’t need to add any information about your high school experience. If you didn’t finish college, it’s okay to give a list of what credits you did complete.

Each educational experience can be listed in the following format:

Degree/Program Name College/University Name Dates attended

You don’t need to add anything else, especially if your resume is already impressive enough. But if you’re struggling to fill up the page, or you feel that aspects of your educational experience will help make you a standout, you may consider also including:

Minor. If you think it rounds out your not-exactly-relevant-to-the-job major nicely.

GPA. Only if it was 3.5 or higher. Otherwise, it’s not going to do you any favors to include this.

Honors. Dean’s List, Cum Laude, etc.

Achievements. If you wrote a killer thesis/dissertation that showcases intimate knowledge relevant to the job to which you’re applying, you can include its title and a very brief description.

Extracurricular activities. Only include if they’re relevant. For example, if you’re applying for a management position and you were president of your student government.

Certifications/Licenses. If the job you’re applying for requires/likes to see certain certifications or licenses that you have, you may include them in this section as well.

Skills section. Your impressive skills should be scattered logistically throughout your professional history section, but you should also include a section solely dedicated to highlighting your skill set . Skills can be broken down into two categories:

Hard skills are skills you learn through training and indicate expertise with a technical ability or job-specific responsibility.

Soft skills are your personality traits, interpersonal abilities, and intangible qualities that make you more effective at your job.

Your resume should have a healthy mix of hard and soft skills, as both are essential to job performance. However, since soft skills are harder to prove in the context of a resume, we recommend leaning more toward hard skills. Additionally, whenever you list a soft skill, make sure that it has a correlating item in your work experience section.

For example, if you say you are skilled in collaboration, you should mention a time when a team project was a major success somewhere in your work experience section.

Optional sections. If you still have space left or there’s more you want to show off that doesn’t quite fit in any of the above sections, you may consider adding an additional section covering one or more of the below categories:

Language . Being bilingual is always impressive, and can be included on a resume for any company. Highlight this more if your position involves liaising with international distributors and/or clients. Don’t lie about your proficiency level.

It may be best to not mention it if you’re not particularly proficient speaker . Such as if you took courses in school, or haven’t really managed to gain fluency. It can end up looking like an attempt to inflate your credentials, which you want to avoid.

Volunteer experience . Always a good thing to include. It shows you’re a team player who behaves in a way that promotes the greater good, without thought of personal gain. Especially good for entry-level candidates and those applying for jobs at a non-profit. If you have gaps in your work history, you can also consider including volunteer experiences in your work history section instead.

Personal projects. A personal blog, published works, or a portfolio of your past projects are all good things to include. They show you take initiative, enjoy and take pride in your work, and that you can handle the responsibilities of the job, if relevant.

Certifications/licenses. If you didn’t include these in your education section, this is another good place to list relevant certifications or licenses that you have.

Interests . This is largely just a space filler if your resume is light in other areas. However, if your hobbies are directly related to the job that you’re applying for, it’s not a bad idea to include them. And it might draw a recruiter’s attention if you end up sharing some of the same interests as they do.

If you have several seemingly random items that are valuable, but don’t warrant creating a whole separate section for, you can also make a section called “Additional Experience.” Here you can include all of the above categories in one place. Just make sure that each item is clear and easy for readers to understand.

Resume samples

Now that we have a good idea of how to write a resume, let’s take a look at some example resumes:

Jack Pilgrim Washington , DC 14015 – (555) 444-3333 – [email protected] – www.linkedin.com/jpilgrim Resume Summary Graphic designer with 3+ years of experience creating and implementing promotional materials and social media graphics. Worked with sales and marketing teams to increase inbound calls by 23% YoY through compelling digital media. Adept at planning, managing, and prioritizing multiple deadlines at once, and thrives in fast-paced work environment. Work Experience Creative Designs | Washington, DC Lead Graphic Designer | June 2018-Present Worked with sales and marketing teams to create landing pages, sales proposals, and supporting media elements to drive sales by over $250,000 per quarter Trained, managed, and mentored team of 4 junior designers to fulfill 40+ project orders on a weekly basis Conducted UX research through surveys, usability testing, and data analysis to plan content marketing strategy, driving organic search traffic by 12% Presented proposals, results, and status updates to set of 4-7 clients, ensuring customer satisfaction at or above 95% for 3 years straight Happy Place | Alexandria, VA Junior Graphic Designer | July 2016-May 2018 Translated client needs and branding strategies into design and content strategy, increasing client retention by 22% Reduced project turnaround time by 8% by Utilizing web-based ticket system for completing and archiving finalized pieces Posted digital artwork to network IPTV using web interface to produce high-end info-graphics and other materials Happy Place | Alexandria, VA Marketing Intern | September 2015-July 2016 Assisted marketing team with data collection, analysis, and presentation using Google Analytics Drew up storyboards for new marketing campaigns alongside sales team, increasing brand awareness through social media Wrote 500-1000 word articles to pair with graphical elements on page, leading to a 40% boost in engagement on company website Education Savannah College of Art and Design | Savannah, Georgia May 2016 Bachelor of Fine Arts in Graphic Design Skills Adobe Creative Suite Typography HTML/CSS WordPress Collaboration Organization

Allison Neederly Chicago, Illinois , 60007 | (333) 222-1111 | [email protected] | www.linkedin.com/allison.neederly Resume Summary Dedicated customer service representative with 4+ years experience resolving customers’ needs in-person, online, and over the phone. Top achiever at XYZ Inc. with a 100% customer satisfaction rate for Q1 of 2020. Friendly personable, and knowledgable about company’s products and services. Relevant Skills Customer Service Responded to upwards of 200 customer queries daily with XYZ Inc., reducing the average wait time by 56% and increasing customer satisfaction rates by 13% Ability to resolve conflict and create a positive atmosphere for shopping for both new and existing customers through technical proficiency Expert product knowledge and communication skills, and experience training and mentoring new customer service staff Web Chat and Phone Skilled in 3 web chat platforms for helping online customers resolve their queries quickly and accurately Achieved fastest call resolution rate at XYZ Inc., with an average resolution time of under 5 minutes per customer Performed outbound calls for customer satisfaction surveys, as well as writing web-based surveys for 10,000+ customers Troubleshooting Detailed product knowledge allowed for customer technical issues to be resolved at rate within top 5% of all customer service associates at XYZ Inc. Created manual for step-by-step directions for troubleshooting that was implemented for team of 100+ customer service reps Positive attitude took average tech-related negative response from 1/5 stars to 4/5 stars, increasing trust in brands and services Work Experience XYZ Inc. | Philadelphia, PA Customer Service Associate New Look Global | Burlington, VT Junior Customer Service Representative L.L. Bean | Burlington, VT Sales Associate Education University of Vermont | Burlington, VT May 2012 Bachelor of Arts in Humanities

Priya Laghari New York, NY | (222) 111-0000 | [email protected] | www.priyabizdev.com Resume Profile Strategy Development: Grew John Deere’s international sales by 13% by tapping into undeserved countries in Southeast Asia Management: Oversaw a team of managers representing marketing, sales, and product teams. Streamlined collaborative, cross-functional communications through agile and scrum management system CRM: Developed, customized, and implemented new customer relationship management database for accounts totaling over $10M in value Work Experience Business Development Manager 01/2015-Present Microsoft | Redmond, WA Developed product strategies and roadmap for Google AdWords, increasing inbound traffic by 26% YoY Reduced time training on new software by 50% for new and existing employees by implement e-learning programs Spearheaded digital marketing campaign worth $1M that saw a return of 200% in first year by qualifying leads earlier in the sales funnel Regional Sales Manager 11/2012-01/2015 Big Things Inc. | St. Louis, MO Managed territory encompassing 29 regional locations with an annual revenue of approx. $55M Worked with C-level executives to plan business strategies, resulting in 20% reduction in overhead costs Increased client retention by 12% in first year by implementing a CRM approach based on account profiling and elevating levels of relationship selling Account Manager 02/2009-11/2012 Solutions Corp. | Chicago, IL Implemented and developed CRM strategic plans, increasing retention of long-term clients by 22% Maintained 50+ accounts totaling over $35M in value Generated leads through one-on-one consultation via phone inquiries, online check-ins, and meeting office walk-ins Relevant Skills CRM: Proficient with Salesforce, Zoho, and HubSpot; some experience with Keap. Used various CRM software over a decade to successfully manage customer relations and quick to adapt to new software and tools that aid in quality of customer experience. Salesmanship: Negotiated and closed over several deals worth $1M+ and skilled in upselling and cross-selling. Adept at working closely with marketing and product teams to maximize the efficiency of the sales funnel for both inbound and outbound traffic. Presentation: Represented Microsoft Northwest Region at quarterly board meetings, ensuring all stakeholders were kept abreast of new developments and opportunities. Also deliver monthly presentations to big clients and vendors to maintain positive relationship. Data analytics. Expert at integrating data from various analytics platforms, including Google, Microsoft Power BI, and SAP BusinessObjects Education Colgate University | May 2008 MBA Fordham University | May 2006 Bachelor’s Degree in Business

For more resume examples and templates:

Resume examples by job

Google docs resume template

Resume templates

Resume builder

Resume Headers Samples:

Tip : Never put your contact info in the header of your document; some applicant tracking systems might miss it.

For more on how to write a resume header:

Resume Header

Resume Titles

Resume introduction examples

Entry-Level Resume Objective.

Recent graduate with a bachelor’s in Marketing from the University of Virginia seeking an entry-level role in content marketing. Excellent copywriter with 2+ years experience editing content as a member of the UVa Writing Center.

Career Change Resume Objective.

Eager to apply 7+ years of experience with customer success management to make successful outbound B2B calls, deliver customized business solutions to new and existing customers, and provide expert product knowledge in the role of Account Manager for XYZ Inc.

Example Resume Summary Statement.

Accountant with over 8 years of experience in the medical industry. Adept at advising on management of cash deficits, reconciling departmental accounts, and creating new accounts and codes. Coordinated invoice preparation system for ABC that reduced contractor overhead by 19% YoY.

English teacher with a love of language and 6 years of experience teaching high school students. Developed new curriculum that boosted freshman reading comprehension scores by 12% and created after school book club for AP Lit class, resulting in 100% of participating students achieving a 5 on the AP Lit test.

Example Qualifications Summary.

Executive assistant with 5+ years experience helping maintain efficiency in an office of 25 employees Communicated directly with internal and external stakeholders, helping Senior Vice President manage projects worth $5M+ Proactively managed office schedules, identifying and prioritizing changes to ensure client satisfaction Recognized in a company of 500 for “Outstanding Achiever” in May 2019

Example Resume Profile.

Detail-oriented IT Specialist with 4 years of experience overseeing and improving the infrastructure of IT systems. Adept at building and running troubleshooting systems and testing services. Decreased security risk by 47% through continual optimization, while also improving the speed of client portal by 22%. Excellent communicator both internally and for client-facing discussions. Achieved 98%+ customer satisfaction ratings through weekly and monthly check-ins with accounts valued cumulatively at $500,000.

Entry-Level Resume Headline.

Bilingual College Graduate with 80 WPM Typing Speed and Tutoring Experience

Experienced Resume Headline.

Business Development Specialist with 6+ Years Experience Scaling Start-Up Tech Teams

For more on resume introductions:

Resume objective statement

Resume summary statement

Resume summary statement examples

Qualifications summary

Sample resume work experience sections

Work Experience XYZ Industries | Seattle, WA Marketing Associate | May 2019-Present Delivered weekly presentations to client-base to communicate brand messaging, increasing client retention by 11% Served as liaison between marketing and product teams, resulting in projects finishing 2 weeks early, on average Leveraged Excel skills to create and maintain spreadsheet to track consumer insights, emergent trends, and inform decisions of marketing team through competitive analysis Managed team of 5 contractors to juggle multiple priority projects simultaneously, never missing a deadline Initiated an affiliate referral program that PR team went on to turn into a revenue-generating stream valued at $30,000 annually ABC Corp | Seattle, WA Marketing Intern | September 2018-May 2019 Developed, maintained, and processed 20+ digital consent forms and distributor forms Worked collaboratively with a team of 10 marketing professionals, closely aligning our goals with the PR team Provided data analysis using Google Analytics and performed keyword research to increase blog traffic by 56% over six months Answered up to 50 customer queries by phone and email each week

For more on building the perfect resume work experience section:

Resume work experience section

First resume (no experience)

Examples Of Education Resume Sections

Graduated recently from a 4-year program.

Western Illinois University | Macomb, Illinois May 2020 Bachelor of Arts in Sociology | Minor in Psychology 3.95 GPA magna cum laude Dean’s List all semesters

Two degrees.

Fordham University | Bronx, New York April 2016 Master of Chemical Engineering Stony Brook University | Stony Brook, New York April 2014 Bachelor of Science in Chemistry

Anticipated graduation date (not yet graduated).

DePaul Univeristy | Chicago, Illinois Bachelor of Arts in History – Degree anticipated May 2021 Current GPA: 3.8

Older job seeker (graduated 10+ years ago).

University of Chicago | Chicago, Illinois Bachelor of Business Administration

High school graduate (no college degree).

Johnston High School 2016-2020 Head of Computer Club

More on crafting the perfect resume education section:

Education resume section

GPA on resume

Dean’s list

Magna cum laude

Examples Of Skills For Resume

Examples of hard skills include:

Examples of soft skills include:

Here’s more information on how to incorporate skills into your resume:

Resume skills section

Hard skills

Soft skills

Top skills for professionals

Skills-based resume

Resume writing FAQ

What is a resume?

A resume is a one to two-page document that focuses on professional experience, past achievements, education and certifications, and specific skills tailored to the job you’re applying for.

Almost every job application requires a resume, and hiring managers use them as a first impression in determining which applicants get a shot at an interview.

Whether you’re fresh out of college or have 30 years of professional experience, this guide should help craft a resume that stands out from the crowd and get you one step closer to landing your dream job.

What is the format for writing a good resume?

Most people will want to use a chronological or reverse-chronological resume format. This format is compatible with most applicant tracking systems (ATS) and is easy for employers to read. Additionally it helps highlight your experience, which helps prove your qualifications.

How far back should a resume go?

A resume should go back no further than 10 to 15 years. However, it is important that all your information is relevant. Therefore, do not include job experience that is irrelevant to your application, even if it’s fewer than 10 years old. Save that information for later discussions.

Should you personalize your resume for each job?

Yes, you should personalize your resume for each job you apply to. Many recruiters use ATS now, which will search for keywords in a resume and reject those that don’t have them. That means that the skills you choose to highlight as well as your opening, such as your resume summary, should be altered to suit each job you apply to.

You don’t need to rewrite the entire resume for each job, but it does show attention to detail and initiative to make sure that your resume is customized. It also makes it more likely that you’ll get past the first step of the process.

State of New York Department of Labor – Resumes, Cover Letters and Job Applications

Harvard University – Create a Resume/CV or Cover Letter

How useful was this post?

Click on a star to rate it!

Average rating / 5. Vote count:

No votes so far! Be the first to rate this post.

Matthew Zane is the lead editor of Zippia's How To Get A Job Guides. He is a teacher, writer, and world-traveler that wants to help people at every stage of the career life cycle. He completed his masters in American Literature from Trinity College Dublin and BA in English from the University of Connecticut.

Recent Job Searches

• Registered Nurse Jobs Resume Location
• Truck Driver Jobs Resume Location
• Call Center Representative Jobs Resume Location
• Customer Service Representative Jobs Resume
• Delivery Driver Jobs Resume Location
• Warehouse Worker Jobs Resume Location
• Account Executive Jobs Resume Location
• Sales Associate Jobs Resume Location
• Licensed Practical Nurse Jobs Resume Location
• Company Driver Jobs Resume

Related posts

Statement Of Qualifications: What It Is And Examples

Scrum Master Resume (With Examples)

Standard Resume Margins (Size + Formatting)

Resume Pictures: Should You Put A Picture On Your Resume?

• Career Advice >
• Resume Structure >
• Parts Of A Resume >

ChatGPT vs. Microsoft Copilot vs. Gemini: Which is the best AI chatbot?

Artificial intelligence (AI) has transformed how we work and play  in recent months, giving almost anyone the ability to write code , create art , and even make investments . For professional and hobbyist users alike, generative AI tools, such as  ChatGPT , offer advanced capabilities to create decent-quality content from a simple user prompt. 

Keeping up with all the latest AI tools can get confusing, especially as Microsoft added  GPT-4 to Bing Chat  and renamed it to Copilot, OpenAI added new capabilities to ChatGPT and released GPT-4o , and Google plugged Bard   into its ecosystem  and rebranded the chatbot as Gemini .

Also: How to use ChatGPT (and how to access GPT-4o)

Knowing which of the three most popular AI chatbots is best to write code , generate text , or help build resumes is challenging. Let's break down the biggest differences so you can choose the one that best meets your needs. 

Testing ChatGPT vs. Microsoft Copilot vs. Gemini

To help determine which AI chatbot gives more accurate answers, I'm going to use a simple prompt to compare them: 

"I have 5 oranges today, I ate 3 oranges last week. How many oranges do I have left?"

The answer should be five, as the number of oranges I ate last week doesn't affect the number of oranges I have today. First up, ChatGPT.

You should use ChatGPT if...

1. you want the most advanced ai chatbot for free.

OpenAI lets users access ChatGPT , powered by its GPT-3.5 and the GPT-4o models, for free with a registered account. If you're willing to pay for the Plus version, you can access GPT-4, use a higher prompt limit for GPT-4o, and get early access to new features for $20 per month.

ChatGPT with GPT-4o, available for free users, answered the question correctly. 

GPT-4o is a new multimodal model available to free and paying ChatGPT users. Rather than relying on three separate models to power its features -- GPT-4 for text, DALL-E 3 for images, and Whisper for voice -- ChatGPT now uses GPT-4o to process and generate text, images, and sounds. This makes it faster than GPT-4 for paying ChatGPT subscribers, and just as good for ChatGPT users who don't want to pay.

Aside from giving free ChatGPT users access to the latest GPT-4o model, the startup also announced that free users now get most of the features that until now were exclusive to ChatGPT Plus users. These include web browsing, access to custom GPTs, ChatGPT Memory, and advanced data analysis.

2. You want to try the most popular AI chatbot

OpenAI released a widespread preview of  ChatGPT  in November 2022. Since then, the AI chatbot quickly gained over 100 million users and has been at the center of  controversies , especially as people uncover its potential to  do schoolwork  and replace some work across industries.

Also: ChatGPT will put your data into interactive tables and charts with GPT-4o

Since its release, I've been testing ChatGPT almost daily. Although its user interface has remained simple, minor changes have greatly improved the tool, including GPT-4o for free users,  Custom Instructions , and easier access to accounts.

The free version of ChatGPT using the default GPT-3.5 model gave the wrong answer to our question.

Although ChatGPT has proven to be a valuable AI tool, it can be prone to  misinformation . Like other large language models (LLMs), GPT-3.5 is imperfect, as it is trained on human-created data up to January 2022. It also often fails to comprehend nuances, like it did with our math question example, which it answered incorrectly by saying we have two oranges left, when the answer should be five.

Also: I put GPT-4o through my coding tests and it aced them - except for one weird result

The GPT-4o model answered the math question correctly, having understood the full context of the problem from beginning to end.

Next, let's consider Microsoft Copilot , which is a great way to access GPT-4 for free.

You should use Microsoft Copilot if...

1. you want to use gpt-4 for free.

Although the free version of ChatGPT lets you use GPT-4o, access to free users is limited to about 15 messages every three hours or capped depending on peak hours, to keep it accessible to more people. After reaching your GPT-4o limit, your chat session reverts to GPT-3.5, limited to generating conversational text and information only until January 2022.

Also:  How to use Copilot (formerly called Bing Chat)

Meanwhile, Copilot can access the internet to deliver more current information than GPT-3.5, complete with links to sources.

Copilot's Creative conversation style was the only Copilot mode to answer the question accurately.

There are other benefits, too. Copilot is powered by GPT-4, OpenAI's LLM, and is completely free. Unfortunately, you are limited to five responses per conversation and can only enter up to 4,000 characters in each prompt. Copilot will eventually get GPT-4o built-in, but Microsoft hasn't made this update widely available, yet.

Also: Microsoft Copilot vs. Copilot Pro: Is the subscription fee worth it?

Copilot's user interface is a bit more cluttered than ChatGPT's, but it's still easy to navigate. While Copilot can access the internet to give you more up-to-date results compared to ChatGPT powered by GPT-3.5, I've found it is more prone to stalling before replying and will miss more prompts than its competitor.

2. You prefer more visual features

Microsoft has upgraded its platform several times to add visual features to Copilot, formerly Bing Chat. At this point, you can ask Copilot questions like, "What is a Tasmanian devil?" and get a response complete with photos, lifespan, diet, and more, for a more scannable result that is easier to digest than a wall of text. 

You can also ask Copilot to generate images for you. Give Copilot a description of what you want the image to look like, and the chatbot will generate four images for you to choose from. 

Also: How to use Image Creator from Microsoft Designer (formerly Bing Image Creator)

Microsoft Copilot features different conversational styles, including Creative, Balanced, and Precise, which alter how light or straightforward the interactions are.

The Balanced and Precise conversation styles in Microsoft Copilot answered my question inaccurately.

Finally, let's turn to Google's Gemini, formerly known as Bard. It uses Google's own LLM, also named Gemini, and has received considerable upgrades in the past few months.

You should use Gemini if...

1. you want a fast, almost unlimited experience.

In my time testing different AI chatbots, I saw  Google Bard catch a lot of flack for different shortcomings . While I'm not going to say they're unjustified, I will say that Google's AI chatbot, now named Gemini and powered by a completely different AI model than the one it debuted with, has improved greatly.

Also: How to use Gemini (formerly Google Bard): Everything you should know

Gemini gives speedy answers, which have become more accurate over time. It's not faster than ChatGPT Plus, but it can be faster at giving responses than Copilot and faster than the free GPT-3.5 version of ChatGPT, though your mileage may vary. 

Gemini answered accurately, like GPT-4o and Copilot's Creative conversation style.

Bard used to make the same mistake as other chatbots for my example math problem by incorrectly using the 5 - 3 = 2 formula, but Gemini, powered by Google's new Gemini Pro -- the company's largest LLM -- now answers the question accurately.

Also: Copilot Pro vs. ChatGPT Plus: Which is AI chatbot is worth your $20 a month?

Gemini is also not limited to a set number of responses. You can have long conversations with Google's Gemini, unlike with Copilot, which is limited to five replies in one conversation. Even ChatGPT Plus limits users to 40 messages every three hours. 

2. You want the full Google experience

Google also incorporates more visual elements into its Gemini platform than those currently available in Copilot. Users can generate images using Gemini, upload photos through an integration with Google Lens , and enjoy Kayak, OpenTable, Instacart, and Wolfram Alpha plugins.

Also: 6 AI tools to supercharge your work and everyday life

Gemini is slowly becoming a full Google experience thanks to extensions that add the wide range of Google applications. You can add extensions for Google Workspace, YouTube, Google Maps, Google Flights, and Google Hotels, giving you a more personalized and useful experience.

Artificial Intelligence

Chatgpt vs. copilot: which ai chatbot is better for you, copilot pro vs. chatgpt plus: which is ai chatbot is worth your $20 a month, what is gemini everything you should know about google's new ai model.