Free Resume Templates to Download

Best Free Resume Templates (and Where to Find Them)

• Google Docs: five free resume templates (Swiss, Serif, Coral, Spearmint, Modern Writer). See Google Docs resume templates.
• Microsoft Word: free templates under File > New > "resume." See Microsoft Word resume templates.
• CVMark: ATS-friendly templates you fill in online with a live preview and AI help. Free to build and preview; $3.99 to download.

Free downloadable templates are great if you're comfortable formatting everything yourself. A builder saves time when you want help with the writing and a layout that stays consistent.

Which Resume Format Should You Use?

• Reverse-chronological: your most recent job first. Best for most people.
• Combination (hybrid): a skills section first, then full work history. Best for career changers.
• Functional: grouped by skills. Use rarely, since many recruiters distrust it.

Not sure? Read types of resumes or our comparison of chronological vs. functional vs. hybrid resumes.

Resume Examples: What a Strong Resume Includes

Whichever resume template you choose, the content does the real work:

• A headline and summary that match the job
• Achievements with numbers, not just duties
• Skills that mirror the job posting
• One page if you have under 10 years of experience

For real examples by job, browse resume builders by job, or start with entry-level resume examples.

How to Choose the Best Resume Template

1. Applying online? Choose a single-column template with standard headings.
2. Creative field? A bit of color is fine, but keep text real and selectable.
3. Traditional industry (law, finance, government)? Keep it plain.
4. Lots of experience? Choose a layout that handles two pages cleanly.

You can switch templates in CVMark at any time without retyping, so it's easy to try a few.