The format you choose for your resume should be strategic, designed to highlight your greatest strengths based on your experience level and career path. The three most common formats are Chronological (or reverse-chronological), Functional, and Hybrid (or Combination).

1. Reverse-Chronological Format

• Description: This is the most popular format, preferred by recruiters and ATS-compatible. It lists work experience in reverse order, starting with the most recent position.
• Structure: Contact Information, Summary/Objective, Work Experience, Skills, Education, Optional Sections.
• Ideal for: Professionals with a stable career path, steady growth, and recent, relevant experience.

2. Hybrid or Combination Format

• Description: This combines the skills-focused approach of the functional format with a chronological work history. It prioritizes a detailed skills section at the top, followed by work experience.
• Key Advantage: It is ATS-compatible because it includes a chronological work history.
• Ideal for: Career changers (as it highlights transferable skills), professionals with specialized technical skills (e.g., engineering, IT), or freelancers.

3. Functional Format

• Description: This format focuses heavily on skills, grouping experience under competency categories rather than job titles or dates. It minimizes attention on the chronological work history.
• Key Disadvantage: Many recruiters disapprove of it because it hides the work history. Additionally, the ATS may have trouble processing it correctly without a clear timeline.
• Ideal for: Recent graduates or early-career professionals with little formal experience, or candidates with significant employment gaps.

General Rule: For most professionals, the Reverse-Chronological or Hybrid format is the safest choice due to its ATS compatibility and recruiter preference.