Crafting a resume is something completely new for many graduates, and there are many burning questions graduates tend to ask when they start putting their resumes together for the first time.

Here’s a list of frequently asked questions about resume-writing which will cover basic details, such as formatting and fonts. You can find more advanced guides on writing an effective resume here.

1. What font should I use for my resume?

As a rule of thumb, your resume should provide clarity. You can’t expect for information on your resume to be communicated clearly, if the font itself gets in the way of that.

Safe fonts to use include Times New Roman, Arial and Verdana. Aim for consistency – it can be disorienting to read a document with different fonts and font sizes. You should also stick to the same style and font size for headings and subheadings throughout.

2. Should I refrain from using colours when designing my resume?

No, you don’t have to! If adding some colour to your resume will make it more attractive, go ahead by all means.

Do keep in mind of the industry and employer you are applying to, though. If you’re applying to an employer a creative industry, a vibrant and colourful resume may catch the attention of recruiters. However, submitting a resume with an over-the-top design for an accountant position at a consulting company, for instance, may not be the best idea.

3. What file format should I use for my resume?

This depends on the employer you are applying to. Check if there are specific instructions from your recruiter.

Sending your resume in pdf format will ensure your format stays the same when recruiters receive it, but some employers may prefer for their job applicants to send in their resumes in Microsoft Word format. This is more common among bigger employers because some of them use software to screen résumés, which is a trend that has been dominating the recruitment space these days.

4. How long should your resume be?

Employers typically expect graduate resumes to be one to two pages long (A4 sized). Be sure to check if employers have requirements on the length of your resume too.

The key to writing a resume is to keep your points concise, and you will have to curate relevant and important information to include in it. Avoid sounding long-winded, and keep your resume as brief as possible.

5. What layout should I go for?

The answer to this question is quite subjective. If you are thinking of injecting personality and creativity to your resume, you need to think about the industry and employer you are applying to, as mentioned in the second point of this article.

Keeping your layout simple would be your safest bet. What's important is that recruiters are able to immediately see your relevant skills and experiences from just a quick glance over your resume. As such, you should make use of effective headings and subheadings.

6. Should I use bullet points in my resume?

Yes, you should. Bullet points will help make your points succinct, which is something you should always aim for when crafting your resume.

However, bullet points are not something you must use. Short, punchy paragraphs can be an alternative, as long as you are able to highlight your skills, strengths and compatibility for the role.

7. What information do I have to include in my resume?

The three details you absolutely need to include are (1) your contact details; (2) work experience; and (3) your education background.

You can include other sections such as extra-curricular activities, awards and interests – but these should be given less priority.

8. What filename should I give my resume?

Avoid naming it something generic like Resume.pdf or Resume.docx. Include your first name and surname in the filename (e.g. Monica Tan – Resume.pdf).

This is to ensure that employers can distinguish your resume from other applicants’. However, if there are specific instructions from the employer on how you should name your file, be sure to follow them.