how to make a resume in google docs

How to Make a Resume on Google Docs: A Step-by-Step Guide

Creating a resume might seem daunting, but with Google Docs, it’s a breeze! Google Docs is a free, web-based application where you can create, edit, and store documents and spreadsheets. You can access it from any computer with an internet connection and a web browser. In just a few steps, you can have a professional-looking resume ready to impress potential employers.

Step by Step Tutorial: Making a Resume on Google Docs

Before we dive into the steps, remember that making a resume on Google Docs will require you to have a Google account. Once you have that set up and you’re logged in, you’ll be creating a new document, choosing a template, and filling in your information.

Step 1: Open Google Docs

Go to docs.google.com and sign in with your Google account.

When you arrive at Google Docs, you’ll see a blank page or the option to choose a template. If it’s your first time, you might want to take a moment to familiarize yourself with the layout. The menu bar at the top gives you access to all the tools you’ll need.

Step 2: Choose a Resume Template

Click on ‘Template Gallery’ and scroll down to the ‘Resumes’ section.

Google provides several resume templates, and you can pick one that suits your style and the job you’re applying for. Take your time to preview a few options before you decide. Remember, the content of your resume is what matters most, but a good design can help it stand out.

Step 3: Fill In Your Information

Replace the placeholder text with your personal and professional information.

This step is where you get to talk about how awesome you are! Be sure to include your contact information, work experience, education, skills, and any awards or recognitions you’ve received. Keep it concise and relevant to the job you’re applying for.

Step 4: Customize Your Resume

Adjust the fonts, colors, and layout to your preference.

Google Docs allows you to personalize your resume to reflect your personality. However, don’t get too carried away. Professionalism is key, so stick to clean fonts and colors that are easy on the eyes.

Step 5: Proofread and Save

Double-check for any spelling or grammatical errors, then save your document by clicking ‘File’ > ‘Download’ > ‘PDF’.

This might be the most important step. Typos and mistakes can be a turnoff for employers, so review your resume multiple times. Once you’re confident it’s error-free, save it as a PDF to preserve the formatting.

After completing these steps, you’ll have a sleek, professional resume ready to send out to potential employers. Remember, the content of your resume is what will really sell your skills and experience, so make sure it’s strong and compelling.

Tips for Making a Resume on Google Docs

• Keep your resume to one page, especially if you’re new to the job market.
• Use bullet points to make your experience and accomplishments easy to read.
• Include keywords from the job description in your resume to get past automated screening tools.
• Make sure your contact information is up to date and professional—no silly email addresses!
• Ask a friend or mentor to review your resume for feedback.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do i find the resume templates in google docs.

Go to the Template Gallery, and you’ll find resume templates listed under the ‘Resumes’ section.

Can I edit my resume on different devices?

Yes, Google Docs saves your documents in the cloud, so you can access and edit your resume on any device with internet access.

Is Google Docs the best tool for making a resume?

Google Docs is a great tool because it’s free and easy to use. There are other options out there, but for most people, Google Docs will do the trick.

Can I share my resume directly from Google Docs?

Absolutely! You can share it by email or with a shareable link right from Google Docs.

What if I need help with my resume content?

There are plenty of online resources and services that offer resume writing and review assistance.

• Open Google Docs
• Choose a Resume Template
• Fill In Your Information
• Customize Your Resume
• Proofread and Save

There you have it, a straightforward guide on how to make a resume on Google Docs. Remember, crafting a resume is all about presenting the best version of yourself on paper. It’s your one-page opportunity to showcase why you’re the perfect candidate for the job. While Google Docs offers a convenient and user-friendly platform, it’s the content that you add which makes the difference. So, take your time to tailor your resume for each application, highlight your achievements, and always proofread before sending it off. With a little effort and creativity, you’ll be landing your dream job in no time!

Matthew Burleigh has been writing tech tutorials since 2008. His writing has appeared on dozens of different websites and been read over 50 million times.

After receiving his Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Computer Science he spent several years working in IT management for small businesses. However, he now works full time writing content online and creating websites.

His main writing topics include iPhones, Microsoft Office, Google Apps, Android, and Photoshop, but he has also written about many other tech topics as well.

Read his full bio here.

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How to Make a Resume on Google Docs

• Last updated November 16, 2023

Looking for a job? Wondering how to make a resume on Google Docs? You may have struggled to make your document stand out in the past – but not anymore! 

With the right CV template in Google Docs, you can create them quickly. Just open the Google Docs template library, pick the outline that suits your needs, and enter all of the corresponding information. 

In this comprehensive guide, I’ll walk you through how to make a resume on Google Docs in just a few minutes. I’ve also included free resume templates made by our Spreadsheet Point experts! 

Table of Contents

What Are the Basics to Include on My Resume? 

Clear, concise, and well-researched resumes improve your chances of a hiring manager calling you back. Only include details that are relevant to the job description. Focus on – and highlight – your relevant skills, experience, accomplishments, and strengths. 

At its most basic, a resume should include the following: 

1. Contact Information

Add your full name, email address, phone number, and LinkedIn account (if available). Though adding your mailing address is unnecessary, you might want to add your city if the position is location-dependent. 

2. Introduction

An introduction can be in the form of a resume objective or summary. This should include your qualifications, previous roles, and professional background.

Note : In some parts of the world, resumes include photos . In the United States, it is advisable to avoid using them. 

3. Education

Here, include the name of your schools and your highest degrees (e.g., major, minor). Additionally, you can add relevant certifications and coursework if they relate to your desired position or if you’re applying for an entry-level position.

4. Work Experience

In this section, add your relevant experiences in the specific field . Include the job title, the organization you worked for, and the period of time you worked there. A bullet point list may be optimal to provide an overview of your responsibilities and accomplishments.

5. Skills Section

Add the hard and soft skills , qualifications, and accomplishments that are relevant to the position you’re applying for. The purpose is to illustrate that you are a well-rounded candidate. 

Looking to Take Your Skills to the Next Level? 

Google Suite is an essential part of most workplaces. To add proficiency to your resume, consider taking a comprehensive GSuite course on Udemy!

What Is an Applicant Tracking System? 

When making a resume in Google Drive, choose a template that’s visually appealing and readable by an Applicant Tracking System (ATS) .

Employers use ATS software for storing, filing, and searching candidates’ resumes. By scanning for specific keywords, ATS helps organize (and locate) the best job candidates. ATS software is advanced, but it’s certainly not perfect. Any formatting issues can make it hard for the software to read the resume.

When you’re creating a resume on Google Docs, exclude these elements:

• Images (e.g., photos, graphics, graphs, logos)
• Less Common Fonts

How to Optimize Your Resume for an ATS

If you want your resume to pass through the automatic sorting process used by most applicant-tracking systems, include keywords associated with the specific position you’re applying to. That might mean making several versions of a resume in Google Docs. 

Here are a few considerations when building an ATS-friendly resume:

• Include all relevant credentials
• Use industry-specific keywords
• Include specific job titles and work experience
• Type out the full name of certifications

With these additions, you’ll be more likely to appear at the top of the applicant pool. Some hiring managers sort resumes by keyword, so make sure you include the full name of your certifications, programming languages, or other industry-specific skills.

If you don’t wish to create your resume from scratch, there are a few resume outlines for Google Docs that you can use. Here’s how to use Google Docs resume formats from the template gallery:

• Open your Google Docs account and click on the template gallery button .

• Scroll down to the Resumes section. Click the CV template in Google Docs that appeals to you. For this example, we’re using the ‘Modern Writer Resume Template.”

• You can also print the resume template by clicking on File > Print .

A Note About Resume File Formatting

If you download the file, we suggest using the PDF Document (.pdf) format. This will lock the file and prevent further edits. You can, however, convert the PDF back to other file types later. If you want to allow future edits, most word processors widely support Microsoft Word (.docx).

The Best Free Resume Templates from Google Docs

Google Docs has several CV templates – and all of them are supported by ATS software.

Coral Resume

One of the best resume formats on Google Docs is Coral. This general resume template uses color to differentiate various sections. Most major categories (e.g., skills, experience, education, awards) are highlighted by a coral color. The start of the resume allows you to add contact details like address, phone number, and email.

Note : Be sure to delete the “Hello” and “I’m” at the top!

Spearmint Resume

The Spearmint template is suitable for people already working in a specific field. It features the contact details at the top and the typical categories further down the page. 

This Google Docs resume template is compatible with ATS software. However, when filling out this resume template, format the Experience category with proper bullet points.

Modern Writer Resume

This free Google Docs resume template has a modern aesthetic, with colors emphasizing the names and locations. 

While the skills are added to the top part of the page, you can change the order or remove/add new ones, depending on your requirements.

Free Custom CV Templates from Spreadsheet Point

General resume template.

Access Template

This Google Docs resume template is simple to use and easy to understand. In the left column, add contact information, education, skills, and other interests. In the right column, add your profile and job experience. 

This template is best suited for people with plenty of work experience.

Streamlined Resume Template

Sometimes, it’s best to keep things simple. With this streamlined template, recruiters will be able to find the section they want instantly. It features key sections, such as summary, experience, education, and relevant skills.

Tip : For a more custom experience, change the text color, font size, and border width.

Modern Resume Template

If you’re looking for a more modern look, this template might be perfect for you. Featuring all the sections you require (e.g., skills, contact information, languages, experiences, education), it’s divided into two separate columns.

How to Create a Google Docs Resume Template from Scratch

Making a new resume can be a time-consuming process, but we recommend it if you need a highly customized option.

What Types of Resumes Exist?

There are three commonly used resume formats. 

1. Chronological Resume

Here, your work history is listed in reverse chronological order, starting with your most recent position. You’ll emphasize your employment with clear job titles and work history dates. 

Note : Exercise caution if you have substantial employment gaps or are entering the workforce for the first time. 

2. Functional Resume

A functional resume might be good for you if you’re new to – or reentering – the workforce. Also called a skills-based resume, it emphasizes your areas of expertise without a chronological work history. 

Note : Some recruiters don’t prioritize these types of resumes.  

3. Combination Resume

As the name suggests, combination resumes blend the qualities of chronological and functional resumes. It’s recommended for showcasing substantial employment history, past experience, and skills that were honed over time. 

Tips for Using a Google Docs Resume Template

Are Google resumes good? Absolutely! But Google Docs resume templates require more than just copy-pasting your information into a file: You need to personalize it!

Enter the Correct Information

Review all the content before finalizing it. I usually take a break for a few hours (or days) before finalizing my files. Otherwise, I occasionally ask a friend to proofread them. 

Personalize Your Layout

Even though you’re starting with a CV template, your resume doesn’t need to look like everyone else’s. 

• Change the colors of the headings
• Use different fonts
• Include various heading and font sizes
• Add the proper bullet point formatting
• Increase or decrease the font to fit the content better on the page.
• Remove or add sections to fit the job description.

Example : Updated Swiss Resume

Strike a Balance

When I add my skills and experiences to any Google Docs resume template, I keep it brief and succinct. If you add too many details, the reader will probably ignore it. However, if you add too few details, the reader might not glean enough from your CV. 

Keep It Short

Whenever possible, it’s ideal to keep your resume on one page . This requires a lot of close reading, formatting, and editing, but you want recruiters to spot your achievements and skills immediately. 

Include Social Media

When used correctly, your social media presence can have a major impact on recruitment. If you have any questionable publications, I’d recommend scrubbing them! 

Show Results with Numbers

If you can provide specific numerical examples of your accomplishments, use them. Metrics are always a great way to measure success. 

Optimize Text

Look through the job description and highlight words or phrases that stand out. Identify the most frequently used terms and be sure to insert them (without looking too obvious). 

Check Your Grammar

Many employers will ignore your resume if they spot incorrect grammar or typos. Run your CV through spellcheck! 

Frequently Asked Questions

What’s the difference between resumes and cover letters .

The sole purpose of your resume (or CV) is to show recruiters that you’re qualified for the advertised position. In a nutshell, it’s an advertisement for yourself.   

Also known as a motivation letter, a cover letter i s often paired with a resume. This single-page document is really just a resume summary, showing potential employers how your skills and abilities will benefit their company. A customized motivation letter also demonstrates that you’ve spent time researching the position being offered. 

Related : Check out These Cover Letter Templates

Do Google Docs Have Free Resume Templates?

Absolutely! Google Docs free resume templates. Go to the main Google Docs landing page and click on the Template Gallery button in the upper-right corner. 

Is It Better to Create a Resume on Google Docs or Word?

Google Docs resumes are great, but they’re also commonly used. That means they aren’t always the best if you’re looking to highlight your professionalism. Docs and Word have similar features, so there isn’t much difference when using one or the other for creating a resume.

What Is the Best Resume Format on Google Docs?

Google Docs offers several resume templates, including Coral, Spearmint, and Modern Writer. All of these resume templates are great for building a CV. Plus, they’re all readable by Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS).

How Do I Make My Resume Fit on One Page in Google Docs?

If the content in your template nearly fits on one page, go to File > Page setup . Reduce the left and right margins to fit more content on the page. Play around with font size, paragraph spacing, and the white space around headings.

Wrapping Up

Now you know how to make a resume on Google Docs! Whether you use one of our templates, Google Docs’ templates, or you build one “from scratch,” your next job application couldn’t be easier! 

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How to Create a Free Resume on Google Docs: Step-by-Step Guide

How to Make A Free Resume on Google Docs – Step-by-Step Guide Open Google Docs > Sign in with your Google Account Select a Resume Template or Create your Template Edit and Customize the Resume Template > Format the Text & Style Save and Download Resume to Different File Format

Creating a professional resume has never been easier with Google Docs. If you’re looking to craft an impressive resume in Google Docs , you’re in the right place. Google Docs offers a variety of resume templates for free , making it simple to choose a resume format in Google Docs that best suits your needs. If you’re searching for a resume template for free or a resume template simple and elegant, Google Docs has you covered.

In this article, we’ll walk you through how to use a resume template in Google Docs , ensuring your resume stands out. From selecting a resume template for Google Docs free to customizing your resume format in Google Docs , we’ve got all the tips you need to create a polished and professional resume with the help of a resume template.

How to Make A Resume on Google Docs

Table of Content

• What is a Resume
• Resume Format in Google Docs
• How to Make a Resume in Google Docs

How to Download Your Google Doc Resume As a PDF

Top 5 resume templates for google docs, advantages to create a resume on google docs, what is a resume in google docs.

A resume is like a detailed summary of your job history. It’s a paper that shows the places you’ve worked, the schools you went to, any volunteering you did, and any prizes or good things you did. Your resume tells your future boss why you’re a good fit for the job they’re hiring for.

How To Use a Google Docs Resume Template

Google Docs offers accommodating layouts and apparatuses to help you grasp your abilities and experiences effectively. Whether you are a tenderfoot or experienced, with Google Docs, you’ll effectively alter and spare your resume online, guaranteeing that it’s continuously up-to-date and prepared for your work look. Follow the Steps to Make a Resume in Google Docs:

Step 1: Open Google Document

To start, get to Google Docs in your web browser after signing in to your Google account.

Open Google Document

Step 2: Click on the Template Gallery Button

Explore the bottom right corner of the screen and press the “Template Gallery” button.

Click on the Template Gallery Button

Step 3: Choose a Resume Template

Inside the layout format, select a resume layout that not only looks outwardly engaging but also guarantees readability.

Choose a Resume Template

Step 4: Insert data in a brief way in the template

Personalize the chosen layout by contributing your claim data. This includes basic, subtle elements like your contact data, a brief self-introduction, your instructive foundation, proficient encounters, and important skills.

Insert Data

Step 5: Maintain a Clean and Clear Resume

Insert complicated components such as tables, pictures, content boxes, headers, footers, or bizarre fonts.

Step 6: Do Customization and Download in PDF

Once you’ve customized your resume to your satisfaction, continue to download it as a PDF file. Simply click on File. At that point, select Download and select “PDF Document.”

Customize and Download

Step 7: Analyze the resume with data

Take a minute to completely analyze the downloaded PDF to guarantee that all the information appears precisely as you desire.

Step 8: Save and Share your Resume

Save your completed resume. You’ll be able to effectively share it electronically with potential managers or print it out for difficult duplicates.

How To Create a Resume in Google Docs Without a Template

In the steps below we will be creating a resume in Google docs without using a resume template.

Step 1: Log into Google Docs

Log into Google Docs

Step 2: Open a Blank Document

Open the Document

Step 3: Go to Page Setup and Set Margins

Go to Page margins, which are typically 1 inch. Visit Page Setup > Margins in File.

Go to Page Setup and Set Margin

Step 4: Format the document along with its layout.

Format Document

Step 5: Set a body text font size of 10–12 points.

Step 6: Prevent Single lines

Prevent Single Lines

Step 7: Include these Sections in your resume

• Contact Details: Your personal information.
• Summary or Objective: A brief statement about your goals.
• Education: Your academic background.
• Work Experience : Details of your previous jobs.
• Skills : Your relevant abilities.
• References: People who can vouch for you.

Include these sections

Step 8: To distinguish parts, use bold text and headers.

Use Bold text and Headers

Step 9: Enter the Following Content

• Enter your contact information such as contact number, address, etc
• Mention education background, certifications, etc
• Use bullet points to list elements inside a section: B. Job duties or competencies.

Step 1: Open your Google Docs

Open your Google Docs

Step 2: Go to the File option and Click on Download

Go to the File option and Click on Download

Step 3: Choose “PDF Document (.pdf).”

Choose “PDF Document (.pdf).”

The Google Docs Template Display offers a wide cluster of professionally planned resume templates that cater to different businesses and inclinations. Each resume template may be a standout choice for making a noteworthy resume that successfully exhibits your skills and experiences. With alternatives for clean and cutting-edge plans, these layouts not only upgrade meaningfulness but also leave an enduring visual effect.

Whether you are a seasoned professional or just beginning your career, the Template Display guarantees that you can effortlessly discover and customize a resume template that suits your unique needs. It’s an important asset for creating a standout resume that can help you secure your desired work opportunity.

1. Coral Resume

The Coral Resume format from Google Docs Format Gallery is a great choice for those looking for a new and dynamic continuing plan. Its clean format, combined with alluring coral complements, adds a touch of uniqueness to your resume. It’s an excellent format for those who need to form an important first impression and stand out in competitive work markets.

Coral Resume

2. Spearmint Resume

The Spearmint Resume format stands out as an outwardly engaging alternative within the Google Docs Template Display. Its reviving minty colors and well-organized segments make it an amazing choice for those who need a present-day and a la mode resume. This format is best suited for people who want to showcase their skills and experiences in an eye-catching and easy-to-read format.

Spearmint Resume

3. Swiss Resume

The Swiss resume format may be a classic and ageless choice accessible within the Google Docs Template Gallery. Its smooth and proficient design, inspired by Swiss plan standards, is perfect for those looking for a moderately impactful resume. This template is the leading alternative for people who need to showcase their capabilities and make a solid impression in a clean and well-structured format.

Swiss Resume

Elegant fonts are used in serif resume templates to enhance their aesthetic appeal. appropriate if you want your CV to appear more upscale. This template is simple to understand and may be used for a number of activities.

5. Modern Writer

A modern writer’s resume template is one of the best templates to showcase your qualifications. This template will help your resume stand out and leave a strong impression.

Modern Writer

Google Docs offers a diverse range of resume templates, permitting clients to select from different styles and plans that best suit their inclinations and needs.

• Creating a resume on Google Docs is clear and user-friendly, making it available for people of all ability levels.
• As a cloud-based stage, Google Docs empowers users to get to and alter their resumes from any place with an online association, guaranteeing steady accessibility and convenience.
• Users can effectively share their resumes with collaborators or potential bosses, encouraging input and survey processes.
• Multiple clients can at the same time alter a resume on Google Docs, empowering real-time collaboration and updates.
• Google Docs consequently saves changes as you work, diminishing the chance of losing your progress.
• Users can share their resumes in different groups, counting PDF and Word, guaranteeing compatibility with diverse application processes.
• Google Docs keeps a point-by-point amendment history, permitting users to track and return to past versions of their resume.
• Google Docs may be a free stage, making it an available choice for people looking to form or upgrade their resumes without extra costs.
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In conclusion, creating a standout resume in Google Docs is both simple and efficient. By utilizing the various resume templates for free available, you can quickly select a resume format in Google Docs that suits your professional needs. Whether you prefer a resume template simple or more detailed, Google Docs offers plenty of options. Remember, a well-crafted resume is your ticket to making a great first impression. With the right resume template Google Docs free , you can ensure your resume is professional, polished, and ready to help you land your dream job.

How to Make A Resume on Google Docs – FAQs

Is it okay to use a google docs template for a resume.

Absolutely! Using a Google Docs template for a resume is not only okay but also highly recommended. Google Docs provides a variety of professionally designed resume templates for free, allowing you to create a polished and impressive resume quickly.

How to create a resume?

Creating a resume is a straightforward process when you follow these steps: Choose a Format Select a Template Add Personal Information Write a Summary or Objective List Work Experience Include Education Highlight Skills

How do I edit a resume in Google Docs?

Editing a resume in Google Docs is simple and convenient Open Google Docs Select a Template Customize the Template Update Sections Save Changes

How do I upload a CV on Google Drive?

Uploading a CV on Google Drive is quick and easy: Open Google Drive: Click on “New” Select “File Upload” Locate Your CV Upload the CV

How to make a resume on Google Docs with no experience?

Follow the steps given below: Open Google Docs Choose a Template Edit the Template Save the Template Download

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Creating Your Resume With Google Docs: Career Coach's Playbook

Do’s and don’t of creating a resume with Google Docs, common pitfalls to avoid, and tips to help you get your resume past ATS.

a year ago   •   5 min read

Since your resume is your first impression on potential employers, you’ll want to make sure it’s a good one. Google Docs provides user-friendly resume templates to help you land more interviews.

With an ATS-friendly resume template, you can use Google Docs to edit and curate your resume to showcase your skills, experience, and accomplishments.

In this article, we will give you a breakdown of how that’s done, including:

• Getting started on Google Drive
• Choosing an ATS-friendly template

Tips to customize your resume template on Google Docs

Sharing and saving your resume on google docs.

• How to avoid common resume pitfalls on Google Docs

So let’s dive in.

Getting start ed on Google Drive

Many of us are on Google Drive already, but if you don’t have an account, it’s super easy to get one. Just go to workspace.google.com , click ‘Get Started’ and enter the required information.

Choosing a resume template

Once you’re in Google Drive, click the ‘New’ button in the top left corner, select ‘Google Doc,’ and then ‘from a template.’ Here’s what that looks like:

What template should I use?

Choose a resume template that is ATS-ready.

Before looking at resumes with human eyes, many companies use Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) to scan resumes for relevant keywords and qualifications.

With the wrong template, your resume could get lost in the ‘pile.’

Download one of our Google Docs Resume Templates to get started. You’ll have the option of opening it in Google Docs.

What makes a resume ATS-friendly?

An ATS-friendly resume is simple, clear, and easy to read. Images and graphics, and inconsistent formatting make it harder for Applicant Tracking Systems to find the keywords employers are looking for.

For more, check out our recent post How to Beat Applicant Tracking Systems .

• Highlight your relevant skills and experience and incorporate them in multiple areas— Summary , Skills , and Experience . Doing so will help ATS find them better.
• Organize the information on your resume so that it isn’t hard for hiring managers and ATS to find your relevant skills and experience.
• Only add current and relevant skills and experience to the job you’re applying for.
• Search for keywords from the job application to get a sense of what the company is looking for.
• Ensure the formatting you use in your resume is clear, professional, easy to read, and consistent, with the same font and size throughout the resume.
• Use bold or italics to highlight important information, rather than lines and graphics. Also, break it up sections with white space to make the resume easy to read.

Here’s an example of how our Clean resume template can be customized to showcase the candidate’s skills and experience:

And here’s an example of how our Concise with Summary resume template can be customized to suit your experience:

Once your resume is done and ready to be circulated, it’s important to save it in a secure location.

To save your resume using Google Docs:

• Click ‘File’ in the top left corner.
• Click ‘Download’ from the dropdown menu.
• Select the file type you want your resume to be in (typically .docx or PDF).

Your hiring managers will most likely request a PDF version of your resume. But if you’d like to share it through Google Docs, click Share in the top right corner.

A menu will pop up in the middle of the screen allowing you to share it with friends or potential employers. Input their email address to share the Doc.

How to avoid resume pitfalls on Google Docs

Google Docs’ resume templates are extremely user-friendly. Still, there are guidelines to keep in mind to avoid some of the most common resume pitfalls:

• Do not use an unprofessional email address (e.g. your first and last name, rather than the name of your cat).
• Do not use any colors, images, or graphics unless absolutely necessary.

If you’re applying for a job that demands creative, artistic, and graphic design skills, however, it may be useful to add one or two examples of your work.

• Do not add information that doesn’t apply to the job you’re applying for.

ATS looks for specific keywords. If you’re having trouble choosing the right language, check out our Targeted Resume tool.

• Do not rely on Spellcheck to proofread your resume. The technology won’t find every single grammar error or poor word choice. So before sending it off, ask a friend to do a final proofread to check for any spelling and grammar errors you may have missed.
• Do not use a template that is incompatible with ATS.

Here’s an example of a resume template that is not ATS-friendly:

And here’s how to clean it up for ATS:

See the difference? Google Docs is a user-friendly way to create a well-polished resume using a template. It is, however, only a starting point.

It is crucial to choose an ATS-friendly resume template and then customize it to highlight relevant skills and experience. Keep your formatting consistent. Proofread, and then proofread some more!

As a final step, check out our free Score My Resume tool to get instant feedback.

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How to use the Google Docs résumé template to create and edit a professional document for job applications

• Google Docs offers five résumé templates, making it simple to personalize a résumé while using a standard, professional layout.
• To get started, open Google Docs and click Template gallery, then click the template you want to use as the basis for your résumé.
• You can choose a template and create a résumé using the Google Docs mobile app as well. 

There are a lot of resources at your disposal when you need to create a résumé . You can use the templates that accompany Microsoft Word, for example, or try one of the many free or paid résumé builders online.

If you frequently use Google Docs, though, the simplest solution might simply be to make your résumé there. Google includes five résumé templates in Google Docs — here's how to use them.

There are five résumé templates in Google Docs offering a broad variety of résumé styles. Here is how to choose a résumé template and make a résumé in Google Docs.

How to use the Google Docs résumé template on a computer

1. Open Google Docs in a web browser and make sure you are logged into your Google account.

2. On the Google Docs home page, click Template gallery in the top-right corner, to the right of Start a new document . 

3. Browse for the row marked Resumes . Here you'll find five résumé formats. You can see what each one likes in thumbnail form. To get a closer look at the résumé (or just start working), click the résumé.

When you select a résumé template, Google Docs makes a copy of the template and opens it as a new document titled Resume. You can now personalize it by editing the document as you would edit any document. Be careful to keep the template's formatting intact, though.The easiest way to do that is to work on one small block of text at a time — you can select a small block of text and replace it with your own personalized copy. If you accidentally select too much text and wipe out some of the template's unique formatting, just click the Undo button in the toolbar. 

How to use the Google Docs résumé template on a mobile device

It's a lot more convenient to create a résumé on a computer — the screen is bigger and it's easier to enter a lot of text. But if you want or need to work on a mobile device, Google makes that easy to do. 

1. Start the Google Docs app on your phone or tablet.

2. Tap the New Document button (it looks like a plus sign).

3. In the pop-up, tap Choose template .

4. Browse for the row marked Resumes . Here you'll find the same five résumé formats that are available in a browser on the computer. When you find the one you want, tap it.  

Google Docs makes a copy of the résumé template and opens it as a new document titled Resume. You can now start editing and personalizing it. 

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