Resume Periods: Use Them or Not? 8+ Expert Tips

should you use periods in a resume

Resume Periods: Use Them or Not? 8+ Expert Tips

The question of punctuation in resumes, specifically the use of periods, often arises among job seekers. A traditional approach involves using periods after bullet points and at the end of complete sentences within resume sections. For example, a work experience entry might traditionally read: “Managed a team of five. Successfully implemented a new marketing strategy.”

Consistent punctuation contributes to a polished and professional appearance, potentially enhancing readability for recruiters. Historically, formal writing conventions, including sentence-ending punctuation, were strictly adhered to in professional documents like resumes. However, modern resume styles often prioritize conciseness and visual appeal, leading to a shift away from strict adherence to these conventions, particularly with the rise of applicant tracking systems (ATS). Clear and effective communication of skills and experience remains paramount, regardless of the chosen punctuation style.

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9+ Resume Periods: Necessary or Not?

do resumes need periods

9+ Resume Periods: Necessary or Not?

The question of terminal punctuation on resumes addresses the use of full stops (periods), commas, colons, and semicolons at the end of phrases and sentences within the document. For example, a bullet point might read “Managed a team of five sales representatives” with or without a period at the end.

Consistency in punctuation contributes to a polished and professional presentation. While some style guides advocate for its use, others suggest omitting it for a cleaner, more modern look. Historically, formal business writing, including resumes, adhered to strict punctuation rules. However, contemporary practices often favor a less rigid approach, particularly in visually driven documents like resumes, where brevity and impactful presentation are prioritized. This shift reflects the evolving nature of communication in the digital age.

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Resume Periods: Necessary or Not?

should resumes have periods

Resume Periods: Necessary or Not?

The question of terminal punctuation on resumes addresses the use of periods, commas, and other punctuation marks at the end of phrases and sentences within the document. For example, one might debate whether to write “Managed a team of five” or “Managed a team of five.”

Consistent punctuation contributes to a polished and professional appearance, reflecting attention to detail often valued by hiring managers. Historically, resumes followed formal grammatical conventions, including terminal punctuation. However, evolving stylistic preferences, influenced by design trends emphasizing brevity and visual clarity, have led to variations in practice. This has sparked debate about the necessity and impact of such punctuation.

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