The Resume Format Battle: Which One Reigns Supreme?

Posted by Cairns Resume on 8 Sep 2025

What is the best resume format? There are multiple options depending on your specific job and your background in deciding which one to pick. The most common to choose from are: Reverse-Chronological, Functional, Combination.

Your resume is a crucial tool for job seeking and it’s important that it is properly formatted and simple to read. We at Cairns Resume, we specialize in providing resume writing services to aid you in standing out from your competition. In this article, we’ll go over the different types of resume formats as well as some guidelines on how to pick the best one for you.

  1. Reverse-Chronological: This format is the most common and is the best for those with a solid work history. It lists your work experience in reverse-chronological order, with your most recent job at the top.
  2. Functional It is a good format for people with a variety of or non-linear work experiences. It concentrates on your strengths and accomplishments, rather than your past work history.
  3. Combination: This format combines elements of the reverse-chronological and functional formats. It highlights your skills and accomplishments, while also listing your work history in reverse-chronological order.
  4. You can tailor it to the position: Tailor your resume format for the specific position you’re applying for. Make sure you choose a format that highlights your skills and experiences which are relevant to the job.
  5. Ask for help from a professional if you’re having trouble choosing the right format, or require assistance tailoring it to the job take advice from a professional at Cairns Resume.

Each of the above formats has its own advantages and disadvantages. The reverse-chronological format is best for those with a solid work history, the functional format is best for those with diverse or non-linear work experience, and the combination format is a good balance of both. Tailor your resume format to the particular job you’re applying to and seek professional help if needed. Cairns Resume can also assist you in creating an effective resume format that showcases your talents and expertise.

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From Chronological to Functional: Exploring Resume Format Options

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