What Paper Size or Screen Size Should You Use for Your Resume?

Before you send your resume, it helps to know the right size and format. Some people print their resumes, while others only send them online. The good news is that the standards are simple.

Standard paper size: 8.5 x 11 inches

If you plan to print your resume, use 8.5 x 11 inches, also known as “Letter” size. This is the standard size used in Canada and the United States. Employers are used to it, printers are set for it, and it looks professional.

• Do not use legal size paper
• Do not shrink the text to fit more pages
• Keep margins clean and readable

Standard digital size: One full page on a vertical screen

Most resumes are now viewed on phones or computer screens. Your layout should fit on one page in a simple vertical format. If a manager scrolls through endless empty space or wide columns, it becomes hard to read.

If you are sending a digital file, use:

• PDF format
• Regular margins
• Standard fonts

PDFs keep your layout the same on every device.

What about A4 paper?

A4 is used in Europe, Australia, and many other countries. If you are applying outside North America, exporting your resume as A4 is acceptable. Most resume builders let you choose. If you are applying only within Canada or the U.S., stick to 8.5 x 11.

Screen size and mobile viewing

Many hiring managers open resumes on their phones. To make your resume mobile-friendly:

• Use clean headings
• Avoid tiny text
• Avoid multiple columns if possible
• Keep your important details at the top of the page

If someone cannot read your resume easily on a small screen, they may skip it.

Should your resume ever be two pages?

If you have less than 7 to 10 years of experience, keep it to one page. Two pages are fine for experienced workers, tradespeople with detailed certifications, or technical roles where you need to list many skills.

Aim for Simplicity

You do not need a fancy size or special paper. A clean one-page resume, sized for 8.5 x 11 and saved as a PDF, is the safe and professional choice. It will print properly, look good on a phone, and work with Applicant Tracking Systems.

Build your simple, job-ready resume today.