How to Build a Professional Resume in Microsoft Word: Complete 2026 Guide

Microsoft Word remains one of the most accessible tools for creating resumes, with built-in templates, familiar formatting options, and universal compatibility with applicant tracking systems (ATS). Whether you're building your first resume or updating an existing one, Word provides the features you need to create a professional document that gets past automated screening and reaches human reviewers.

This comprehensive guide walks through every step of creating an effective resume in Microsoft Word, from accessing templates to formatting details, with specific focus on 2026 hiring requirements and ATS compatibility.

What Is the First Step to Start Creating a Resume in Microsoft Word?

The first step to creating a resume in Microsoft Word is accessing the program's built-in resume templates. Here's exactly how to do it:

For Windows Users:

Open Microsoft Word

Click on "File" in the top menu bar

Select "New" from the dropdown menu

In the search box, type "resume" or "resume and cover letter"

Browse the template options that appear

Double-click your chosen template to open it as a new document

For Mac Users:

Open Microsoft Word

Go to "File" in the menu bar

Select "New from Template"

Type "resume" in the search box

Choose your preferred template

Click "Create" to open the template

For Word Online (Web Version):

Go to office.com and sign in

Click "Word" to open Word Online

Select "New" then "More templates"

Search for "resume"

Select a template to begin editing in your browser

This process takes less than one minute and immediately provides you with a professionally structured document ready for customization. Using templates saves significant time compared to building from scratch and ensures proper formatting that works with ATS systems.

Understanding Microsoft Word Resume Templates

Microsoft Word offers dozens of pre-designed resume templates spanning different industries, experience levels, and design styles. Understanding which template serves your needs is crucial before you begin filling in information.

Template Categories Available:

Classic Professional: Traditional layouts with clear sections, standard fonts, and minimal design elements. Best for corporate roles, government positions, finance, law, and conservative industries.

Modern Minimalist: Clean designs with strategic use of white space, simple color accents, and contemporary fonts. Suitable for most professional roles across industries.

Creative/Bold: More distinctive designs with unique layouts, multiple colors, and graphic elements. Appropriate for creative fields like marketing, design, media, and advertising.

Industry-Specific: Templates tailored to particular professions including nursing, teaching, IT, engineering, sales, and administrative roles.

Entry-Level: Formats that emphasize education, skills, and potential over extensive work history. Designed for recent graduates and career-changers.

Template Selection Criteria:

Choose templates based on your industry norms—conservative industries expect traditional formats, while creative fields allow more flexibility. Consider your experience level—templates with large work experience sections suit experienced professionals, while education-focused templates work better for recent graduates.

Evaluate ATS compatibility—simpler templates with standard section headers and single-column layouts parse more reliably through applicant tracking systems. Many Word templates include tables for layout, which can cause parsing issues in older ATS systems.

Recommended Templates for 2026:

For maximum ATS compatibility, select templates labeled "Simple," "Professional," or "Classic." These typically use:

• Single-column layouts
• Standard section headers (Work Experience, Education, Skills)
• Minimal graphics or decorative elements
• Standard fonts (Calibri, Arial, Times New Roman)
• Clear hierarchy between sections

Avoid templates with:

• Multiple columns for main content sections
• Text boxes for critical information
• Headers/footers containing important details
• Tables for layout structure
• Graphics, charts, or decorative borders

How to Make a Resume With Microsoft Word: Step-by-Step Process

Once you've selected your template, follow this systematic process to create your professional resume:

Step 1: Set Up Your Document

Before entering any content, configure your document settings:

Margins: Click "Layout" tab, then "Margins." Select "Normal" (1-inch margins) or "Narrow" (0.5-inch margins). Normal margins provide better readability, while narrow margins fit more content on one page. Never go below 0.5-inch margins as some ATS systems ignore content in very narrow margins.

Font Selection: If customizing beyond the template, choose professional, readable fonts:

• Calibri: Modern, clean, default in many Word templates
• Arial: Universally readable, safe choice across all systems
• Times New Roman: Traditional, works well for conservative fields
• Helvetica: Professional, similar to Arial
• Garamond: Elegant while remaining professional

Use 10-12 point font for body text, 14-18 point for your name, and 12-14 point for section headers.

Line Spacing: Click the "Home" tab, find "Line and Paragraph Spacing" icon. Set to 1.0 or 1.15 for body text. Adjust "Before" and "After" spacing in paragraph settings to control space between sections (typically 6-12 points).

Step 2: Create Your Header Section

Your resume header contains essential contact information and should be the first thing visible.

Required Elements:

• Full name (largest text on page, typically 14-18 points, bold)
• Phone number (cell phone with professional voicemail)
• Professional email address (firstname.lastname@provider.com format)
• City and state (full street address no longer necessary)
• LinkedIn profile URL (if current and professional)

Optional Elements:

• Portfolio website or personal URL
• GitHub profile (for technical roles)
• Professional title or desired role

Formatting Your Header:

Center-align your name or left-align it depending on template style. Place contact information on separate lines or use separator symbols (|) to condense onto two lines. Ensure phone number is formatted consistently (123-456-7890 or (123) 456-7890).

Example Header:

SARAH JOHNSON Toronto, ON | 416-555-0123 | sarah.johnson@email.com | linkedin.com/in/sarahjohnson

Step 3: Add Professional Summary or Objective

Immediately below your header, include a 2-4 sentence professional summary that highlights your key qualifications.

Professional Summary (for experienced candidates): Brief overview of your experience, core competencies, and value proposition. Include years of experience, industry focus, key achievements, and primary skills.

Example: "Results-driven marketing professional with 7+ years driving digital campaigns for B2B technology companies. Proven track record increasing qualified leads 156% through targeted content strategy and SEO optimization. Expertise in marketing automation, analytics, and cross-functional team leadership."

Objective Statement (for entry-level or career changers): Focus on what you aim to achieve and how your transferable skills apply to the target role.

Example: "Recent computer science graduate seeking software development position to apply strong programming fundamentals, problem-solving abilities, and collaborative project experience gained through academic and internship work."

Word Formatting Tips: Keep this section to 3-5 lines maximum. Use slightly smaller font than section headers but larger than body text if desired. Consider light background shading or subtle border to make this section distinct.

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ "I needed a quick resume for an internship and expected it to be annoying. Yotru was simple, worked on my phone, and made a resume that looked way better than anything I could have done. Super easy. Would use again." — Maya Thompson

Step 4: Build Your Work Experience Section

This is typically the most substantial section of your resume and requires careful attention to formatting and content.

Section Header: Use "Work Experience," "Professional Experience," or "Employment History" as your section title. Make it bold and slightly larger than body text (12-14 points).

For Each Position, Include:

Company Name – Bold, larger font Job Title – Can be bold or regular weight Location (City, State) – Right-aligned or following job title Dates of Employment – Month/Year to Month/Year format, or Year to Year for earlier positions

Example Format:

ABC Marketing Solutions Toronto, ON Digital Marketing Manager June 2021 – Present - Developed and executed content marketing strategy that increased organic traffic 127% year-over-year - Managed $200K annual advertising budget across Google Ads, LinkedIn, and industry publications - Led team of 3 marketing coordinators, providing mentorship and performance management

Writing Achievement Bullets:

Start each bullet with a strong action verb (developed, managed, increased, implemented, created, led). Quantify results whenever possible with specific metrics, percentages, or dollar amounts. Keep bullets to 1-2 lines maximum for readability.

Focus on achievements and impact, not just duties. Instead of "Responsible for managing social media accounts," write "Grew LinkedIn following from 2,000 to 12,000 followers through targeted content strategy and engagement, generating 43 qualified leads."

Action Verb Examples by Category:

Leadership: Directed, Supervised, Mentored, Coordinated, Facilitated Achievement: Achieved, Exceeded, Surpassed, Improved, Increased Creation: Developed, Designed, Launched, Initiated, Established Problem-Solving: Resolved, Streamlined, Optimized, Reorganized, Transformed

Work Experience Formatting in Word:

Use the "Increase Indent" button to create hanging indents for bullet points. Ensure consistent spacing between positions (typically 6-12 points). List positions in reverse chronological order (most recent first). For multiple roles at the same company, list company name once with dates spanning full tenure, then list each role separately underneath.

Step 5: Create Your Education Section

Education requirements vary based on your experience level and field.

Essential Information:

• Degree type and major (Bachelor of Science in Marketing)
• University name
• Graduation date (Month Year or just Year)
• GPA (only if 3.5 or higher and you graduated within past 5 years)

Optional Information:

• Relevant coursework (for recent graduates)
• Academic honors (Dean's List, cum laude, scholarships)
• Thesis or major projects
• Study abroad programs

Formatting Guidelines:

For Recent Graduates (0-5 years post-graduation): Place education section after professional summary and before (or instead of limited) work experience. Include more detail like relevant coursework, projects, and academic achievements.

For Experienced Professionals (5+ years post-graduation): Place education section after work experience. Keep it brief—degree, school, graduation year is sufficient. Remove GPA entirely after 5 years of professional experience.

Example Format:

EDUCATION Bachelor of Arts in Communications University of Toronto Graduated May 2022 GPA: 3.8/4.0 | Dean's List: 2019-2022 Relevant Coursework: Digital Marketing, Consumer Behavior, Data Analytics

Step 6: Add Skills Section

The skills section helps with both ATS optimization and quick human review.

Organization Methods:

Categorized Skills:

Technical Skills: Microsoft Office Suite, Salesforce, Google Analytics, Adobe Creative Suite Languages: Fluent in English and Spanish, conversational French Soft Skills: Project Management, Team Leadership, Cross-Functional Collaboration

Listed Skills:

- SEO & SEM • Content Marketing • Marketing Automation • Data Analysis - Project Management • Team Leadership • Budget Management • A/B Testing

Skill Proficiency Levels: Only include proficiency levels if you can genuinely back them up (Expert, Advanced, Intermediate, Basic).

ATS Optimization Strategy:

Extract keywords from the job description and include exact matches where truthful. Use both acronyms and spelled-out versions (SEO (Search Engine Optimization)). Include industry-standard software, tools, methodologies, and certifications.

Word Formatting for Skills:

Use bullet points, tables, or simple lists depending on template style. If using tables, ensure borders are set to "No Border" for cleaner appearance. Keep skills section to 4-6 lines maximum to avoid overwhelming the reader.

Step 7: Add Optional Sections (When Relevant)

Depending on your background and the role requirements, consider these additional sections:

Certifications and Licenses:

• List certification name
• Issuing organization
• Date earned or expiration date
• License numbers (for regulated professions)

Volunteer Experience: Particularly valuable for recent graduates or career changers. Format similarly to work experience with organization name, role, dates, and achievement bullets.

Languages: Include language name and proficiency level (Native, Fluent, Professional Working Proficiency, Limited Working Proficiency, Basic).

Publications and Presentations: Relevant for academic, research, or thought leadership positions. Use proper citation format.

Professional Affiliations: Memberships in relevant professional organizations, particularly if you hold leadership roles.

Projects: For technical roles, include links to GitHub repositories, portfolios, or completed projects with brief descriptions.

Microsoft Word Resume Formatting Best Practices

Using Word's Built-In Tools

Styles Feature: Apply consistent formatting across your resume by using Word's Styles feature. Click "Home" tab, then select or modify styles for headings, subheadings, and body text. This ensures formatting consistency throughout your document.

Tables for Layout: Many Word templates use tables to structure layouts. To see table gridlines, click "Table Design" then "View Gridlines." To hide table borders for final version, select table, go to "Table Design," click "Borders" dropdown, select "No Border."

Adding Lines and Separators: To add horizontal lines between sections:

• Type three hyphens (---) and press Enter (creates automatic line)
• Or go to "Insert" tab > "Shapes" > select line tool
• Or use "Borders and Shading" under "Home" tab > "Paragraph" section

Bullets and Numbering: Access bullet point styles through "Home" tab > "Bullets" dropdown. Customize bullet symbols by selecting "Define New Bullet." Adjust indentation using "Increase Indent" and "Decrease Indent" buttons.

Consistency Checks

Before finalizing your resume, verify:

• Dates: All formatted consistently (Jan 2022 vs January 2022 vs 1/2022)
• Punctuation: Either use periods at end of all bullets or none—be consistent
• Tense: Current roles use present tense, past roles use past tense
• Font: Same font family throughout (don't mix Arial and Calibri)
• Spacing: Equal spacing between all sections
• Alignment: Text alignment consistent within each section

File Naming and Saving

File Naming Convention: Save your resume with a professional, descriptive name:

• FirstName_LastName_Resume.docx
• LastName_FirstName_Resume_2026.docx
• LastName_Position_Resume.docx

Avoid generic names like "Resume.docx" or "New Resume.docx"

Save in Multiple Formats:

• Save as .docx (Microsoft Word format) for easy editing
• Save as PDF when ready to submit (unless job posting specifically requests .docx)
• Keep backup copies in cloud storage (OneDrive, Google Drive, Dropbox)

Version Control:

• Create new versions for different applications: Resume_CompanyName.docx
• Date versions if making significant updates: Resume_Dec2025.docx
• Keep a master version with all experience, skills, and achievements to draw from when customizing

Building a Resume From Scratch vs. Using Templates

Template Advantages:

• Professional design already created
• Proper section organization established
• Formatting done automatically
• Time-efficient
• ATS-tested structures (usually)

Template Disadvantages:

• Less customization flexibility
• May look similar to other candidates' resumes
• Sometimes difficult to modify layouts
• May include unnecessary sections
• Can break when heavily edited

From-Scratch Advantages:

• Complete creative control
• Unique appearance
• Exactly matches your needs
• No unnecessary elements
• No hidden formatting issues

From-Scratch Disadvantages:

• Requires design knowledge
• Time-consuming
• Easy to make formatting errors
• May not be ATS-optimized
• Requires understanding of resume structure

Recommendation for 2026: For most job seekers, starting with a simple, ATS-friendly Word template and customizing the content provides the best balance of efficiency and professionalism. Reserve building from scratch for creative fields where unique presentation adds value, or when you have specific layout requirements that templates don't accommodate.

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ "As part of my coursework we had to use Yotru to build our resume, and it ended up being a huge lifesaver. I already had what I thought was a decent resume, but Yotru showed me a big issue I had no idea about." — EB

Common Microsoft Word Resume Mistakes to Avoid

Formatting Errors:

• Using text boxes for important content (ATS systems often can't read them)
• Placing critical information in headers or footers
• Excessive use of tables that don't parse well
• Inconsistent spacing between sections
• Multiple font styles throughout document
• Colors that don't print well in black and white

Content Mistakes:

• Generic objective statements that apply to any job
• Listing duties instead of achievements
• Including irrelevant work experience from 15+ years ago
• Spelling or grammatical errors
• Using personal pronouns (I, me, my)
• Including age, photo, or other personal information (unless culturally expected)

Design Mistakes:

• Overly creative designs for conservative industries
• Font sizes below 10 points (difficult to read)
• Margins smaller than 0.5 inches
• Cluttered layouts with no white space
• Unprofessional color schemes
• Graphics or images that prevent ATS parsing

Resume Builder for Microsoft Word: Alternative Tools

While Microsoft Word provides solid resume-building capabilities, several alternatives offer additional features:

Microsoft Word Online + Copilot: The online version of Word now includes AI assistance through Copilot, which can suggest content, improve phrasing, and help with formatting. This feature requires a Microsoft 365 subscription.

Word Resume Builder (Built-in): Some newer versions of Word include a resume builder wizard that guides you through the creation process step-by-step, asking questions about your experience and automatically populating templates.

Dedicated Resume Builders: Platforms like Yotru provide specialized resume-building tools designed specifically for modern job applications, offering:

• ATS optimization built into every template
• Industry-specific keyword suggestions
• Real-time feedback on content and formatting
• Mobile-friendly creation
• Automatic compatibility checking

When to Use Word vs. Specialized Builders: Use Microsoft Word when you already have content prepared, prefer complete manual control over every element, need to match a specific company template, or have advanced Word skills for complex formatting.

Use specialized resume builders when you're creating a resume from scratch, need ATS optimization guidance, want pre-written content suggestions, prefer streamlined creation process, or lack design experience.

Free Resume Builder Microsoft Word: Getting the Most Value

Microsoft Word offers extensive resume-building capabilities at no additional cost beyond the software license. Here's how to maximize its value:

Accessing Free Templates: Word includes dozens of free resume templates. To find them, click File > New > search "resume." Microsoft regularly adds new templates, so check periodically for updated options.

Free Microsoft 365 Trial: If you don't own Microsoft Office, you can access Word for free through:

• Office.com (limited features, free forever)
• Microsoft 365 one-month free trial (full features)
• Educational institutions often provide free access to students
• Some public libraries offer free access through on-site computers

Combining Free Resources:

• Use free Word templates for structure
• Reference free resume examples online for content ideas
• Use free grammar checkers like the built-in Editor
• Save to free OneDrive storage for cloud access
• Use free LinkedIn profile to supplement resume

Creating a Resume in Word: Platform-Specific Guidance

Windows Version

Windows users have access to the full desktop version of Word with all features:

Quick Access to Templates: Pin frequently used resume templates to your Quick Access toolbar for faster opening. Right-click template file > "Add to Quick Access"

Custom Ribbon: Customize your ribbon to show resume-building tools prominently. File > Options > Customize Ribbon. Add commonly used formatting tools to a custom tab.

AutoCorrect and AutoFormat: Configure AutoCorrect to fix common typing errors automatically. File > Options > Proofing > AutoCorrect Options. Disable AutoFormat features that interfere with resume formatting (automatic bullets, hyperlinks).

Mac Version

Mac users should note some interface differences:

Template Access: Access templates through File > New from Template (not just "New"). Search functionality works the same way.

Keyboard Shortcuts: Mac uses Command key instead of Control:

• Command+B for bold
• Command+I for italic
• Command+U for underline
• Command+Shift+D for document properties

Font Compatibility: Ensure fonts work across both Mac and PC by using standard fonts (Calibri, Arial, Times New Roman) rather than Mac-only fonts.

Word Online (Web Version)

The browser-based version provides basic resume creation:

Advantages:

• No software installation required
• Access from any device with internet
• Automatic cloud saving
• Free with Microsoft account
• Basic templates available

Limitations:

• Fewer templates than desktop version
• Limited advanced formatting options
• Requires internet connection
• Some features disabled (macros, certain design tools)

Best Practices: Use Word Online for basic updates and quick changes. Create original resumes in desktop version for full feature access. Save to OneDrive for seamless transition between online and desktop editing.

Outlook Resume Organizer: Managing Your Job Search in Microsoft

While the search query "Outlook resume organizer" appeared in your data, it's worth clarifying: Microsoft Outlook doesn't have a specific "resume organizer" feature built-in. However, you can use Outlook effectively to organize your job search:

Using Outlook for Job Applications:

Create Email Templates: Save your resume as an Outlook email template:

Create new email in Outlook

Format as you want (include greeting, brief message, etc.)

File > Save As > Outlook Template (.oft file)

Use template when applying to jobs

Organize Applications:

• Create folder structure: "Job Applications," "Interviews Scheduled," "Follow-ups Needed"
• Use categories to color-code applications by status
• Flag emails requiring follow-up
• Set reminders for application deadlines

Track Resume Versions: Attach different resume versions (tailored to specific applications) to corresponding emails in your sent folder for easy reference.

Calendar Integration:

• Schedule interview preparation time blocks
• Set reminders for application deadlines
• Track interview appointments
• Schedule follow-up reminders

For comprehensive job application tracking beyond Outlook's capabilities, consider using a spreadsheet or dedicated job search tracker template, which Microsoft offers free through Word and Excel.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make a resume with Microsoft Word? Open Microsoft Word, go to File > New, search for "resume," select a template, and customize it with your information. Alternatively, start with a blank document and build your resume from scratch using formatting tools.

What is the first step to start creating a resume in Microsoft Word? The first step is accessing resume templates through File > New > search "resume," or opening a blank document if building from scratch. Template selection should be based on your industry and experience level.

How to build a resume on Word from scratch? Start with a blank document, set margins to 0.5-1 inch, choose a professional font, create header with contact information, add section headers (Experience, Education, Skills), format using styles and tables if needed, and maintain consistent spacing throughout.

Can I use Microsoft Word resume formatting for ATS systems? Yes, but use simple templates without text boxes, tables for layout, or graphics. Stick to standard section headers, single-column layouts, and common fonts. Save as .docx format for best ATS compatibility.

Is there a free resume builder in Microsoft Word? Yes, Word includes dozens of free resume templates accessible through File > New. Word Online provides free browser-based access with basic templates and formatting tools.

What's the best Microsoft Word resume template? The best template depends on your industry, but "Simple Resume," "Professional Resume," or "Classic Resume" templates work well for most applications because they're ATS-friendly and professionally formatted.

How do I add a resume to Microsoft Outlook? Outlook doesn't have native resume storage, but you can attach your Word resume to emails, save it as an email template, or store versions in OneDrive linked to your Outlook account.

Can I create a resume using Word Online? Yes, Word Online offers resume templates and basic formatting tools accessible through any web browser. While more limited than desktop Word, it's sufficient for basic resume creation and editing.

How long does it take to make a resume in Microsoft Word? Using a template, you can create a basic resume in 30-60 minutes. Building from scratch takes 2-4 hours depending on your experience with Word and how much content you have.

Should I save my resume as .docx or PDF? Save a .docx version for editing and an additional PDF version for submitting applications. Many ATS systems prefer .docx, but always follow specific application instructions.

Making Microsoft Word Work for Your Resume

Microsoft Word provides accessible, professional resume creation tools that most job seekers already have installed on their computers. The key to success lies in selecting appropriate templates, understanding formatting best practices, and creating content that works for both ATS systems and human reviewers.

Yotru complements Microsoft Word by offering specialized resume-building guidance that ensures your Word-created resume meets current hiring requirements. The platform provides ATS optimization checking, keyword suggestions based on target roles, and formatting verification—helping you avoid common pitfalls when building resumes in Word.

Effective resume creation combines proper tool usage with strong content. Microsoft Word handles the formatting and structure, while strategic thinking about your achievements, skills, and value proposition determines whether your resume generates interview opportunities.

Ready to Build Your ATS-Optimized Resume?

Put this knowledge into action. Use Yotru's resume builder to create resumes with built-in ATS optimization and professional formatting. Whether you start in Microsoft Word or build directly in Yotru, ensure your final resume presents your qualifications effectively. Create your professional resume at yotru.com/resumes.

Related Resources

Resume Building & Optimization

• Make Your Resume ATS-Friendly in 5 Minutes
• 7 Traits All Great Resumes Possess
• What Type of Fonts Should You Use in Your Resume
• What Paper Size or Screen Size Should You Use for Your Resume

Skills & Career Development

• How to Build a Resume With No Work Experience
• How to Condense Your Resume From Two Pages to One Page
• When Should You Use an Objective on Your Resume

Market & Research

• The Secret Behind Yotru Templates: Built to Help You Win
• Simple, Clean and Effective: The Power of a Minimalist Resume

Yotru Tools & Development

• Yotru Platform
• Resume Builder
• Resume Templates

About This Article

This comprehensive guide addresses the complete process of creating professional resumes in Microsoft Word, from initial template selection through final formatting and saving. It provides step-by-step instructions for Windows, Mac, and web-based Word versions, with specific attention to 2026 hiring requirements and ATS compatibility.

The article draws on current resume best practices, Microsoft Word feature documentation, and hiring trends to explain both the mechanics of using Word effectively and the strategic decisions that determine resume success. Rather than just explaining software features, it connects formatting choices to hiring outcomes.

This resource supports job seekers in leveraging familiar software (Microsoft Word) to create professional application materials without requiring design experience or expensive specialized tools. It aligns with Yotru's Employability category by providing practical, accessible guidance for navigating modern resume requirements using widely available technology.

About the Author

Team Yotru develops resume-building tools and resources that help job seekers navigate modern hiring systems. This work includes understanding how different resume creation methods—from Microsoft Word templates to specialized builders—impact application success in automated screening and human review.

Yotru's guidance draws on analysis of ATS parsing behavior, recruiter feedback on resume presentation, and research into what formatting choices actually influence hiring decisions. The platform helps users create effective resumes regardless of which tools they use to build them.

Follow the Yotru team on LinkedIn to stay connected with new research, practical insights, and updates from the field.

References

• University of Toronto Student Life – Resumé and cover letter toolkit (includes Word‑based resume guidance and samples).
  https://studentlife.utoronto.ca/wp-content/uploads/CC-Resume-and-Cover-Letter-Toolkit.pdf​
• Georgetown University Cawley Career Education Center – Resume content & formatting (covers margins, fonts, length; aligns with your Word formatting advice).
  https://careercenter.georgetown.edu/major-career-guides/resumes-cover-letters/resume-formatting-tips/​
• Florida State University Career Center – Writing a resume (explicitly recommends creating resumes in Microsoft Word and then saving as PDF; includes ATS tips).
  https://career.fsu.edu/sites/g/files/upcbnu746/files/Guides/resume%20writing%20guide%20web.pdf​
• University of Manitoba Career Development Centre – Undergraduate resume guide (PDF with step‑by‑step resume construction and formatting).
  https://umanitoba.ca/asper/sites/asper/files/2021-04/Resume_Guide_Undergraduate.pdf​
• KPU Career Services – How to build your resume (step‑by‑step guide, includes notes on Word/PDF submission formats).
  https://www.kpu.ca/sites/default/files/Career%20Services/How%20to%20Build%20your%20Resume_0.pdf​
• UFV Career Centre – Resume writing (PDF with practical guidance including using Microsoft Word for resume and cover letter formatting).
  https://www.ufv.ca/media/assets/career-centre/career-services-and-resources/CECE-Resume-Writing.pdf​
• Yale Office of Career Strategy – Yale College: Resume templates (Word templates and formatting guidance).
  https://ocs.yale.edu/resources/ocs-resume-template/​
• University of Washington Career & Internship Center – Sample resumes (includes downloadable Word templates and examples).
  https://careerservices.fas.harvard.edu/resources/bullet-point-resume-template/​
• Harvard FAS / Harvard College – Create a resume/CV or cover letter plus Resumes & cover letters PDFs (comprehensive resume guidance with formatting that aligns with your recommendations).
  https://careerservices.fas.harvard.edu/channels/create-a-resume-cv-or-cover-letter/​
  https://cdn-careerservices.fas.harvard.edu/wp-content/uploads/sites/161/2024/08/2024-HES_resume-and-letter.pdf​
• Ontario Public Service (Government of Ontario) – Writing a cover letter and resume: tips, tools and resources (includes explicit guidance on acceptable file formats, including MS Word).
  https://www.gojobs.gov.on.ca/docs/OPSCoverLetterandResumeWritingGuide.pdf​

Article Maintenance

Maintained by: Employability Team at Yotru
Review cycle: Quarterly
First published: July 19, 2025
Last updated: December 26, 2025

Support & Contact

Yotru supports job seekers with resume creation, ATS optimization, and application materials development. We help individuals understand how different resume-building approaches—from Microsoft Word templates to specialized platforms—impact their success in competitive hiring markets.

Our tools provide guidance on content development, formatting standards, and strategic presentation regardless of which platform users choose for initial creation. We work with educational institutions, career services teams, and workforce development organizations to ensure our resources reflect current hiring practices.

Contact Yotru or follow us on LinkedIn