How to Format a Google Doc for a Resume: Step-by-Step Tutorial

In this tutorial, we will show you how to create and format a resume using Google Docs. A resume is an important document for job applications, and with Google Docs, you can make it professional and organized. This step-by-step guide will help you design a simple and attractive resume that you can use to impress potential employers.

Introduction to Google Docs

Google Docs is a free, online word processor that allows you to create and edit documents. It’s easy to use, and because it’s online, you can access your documents from any device with an internet connection. You just need a Google account to get started.

Step 1: Open Google Docs

1. Go to Google Docs
   Open your web browser (Chrome, Firefox, etc.) and type in “Google Docs” in the search bar. Click on the first link or go to docs.google.com.
2. Sign in to your Google Account
   If you’re not already signed in, you will need to sign in with your Google account. If you don’t have an account, you can easily create one by following the steps on the screen.
3. Create a New Document
   Once you are signed in, you will see a “Blank” document option. Click on it to open a new, blank Google Doc. You are now ready to start building your resume.

Step 2: Set Up Page Format

Before you start typing, you should set up your document to look like a resume. Here’s how:

1. Change the Page Margins
   By default, Google Docs has 1-inch margins, which is usually fine for most resumes. But if you want to adjust them:
   • Click on “File” at the top left of the screen.
   • Select “Page setup.”
   • In the “Margins” section, you can change the top, bottom, left, and right margins to make them smaller or larger. Standard margins for resumes are 1 inch on all sides.
2. Set the Page Orientation
   Resumes should always be in portrait orientation, which is the default. But if it’s not:
   • Go to “File” and choose “Page setup.”
   • Make sure “Portrait” is selected under “Orientation.”
3. Choose a Font Style
   Picking the right font is important. You want a font that is clear and professional.
   • Click on the “Font” dropdown at the top of the screen (it might say “Arial” by default).
   • Choose a font like Arial, Times New Roman, or Calibri. These fonts are easy to read and commonly used in resumes.
4. Set Font Size
   For most resumes, a font size of 11 or 12 is ideal. You can adjust the size:
   • Click on the font size box next to the font style and choose 11 or 12.

Step 3: Add Your Contact Information

Your contact information should be at the top of the resume, so employers can easily reach you.

1. Start with Your Name
   • Type your name at the very top of the document.
   • Bold your name to make it stand out. To bold, highlight your name and click on the “B” icon in the toolbar at the top.
2. Add Your Contact Information Below Your Name
   Under your name, type the following:
   • Phone number: Write your phone number in a clear format (e.g., (123) 456-7890).
   • Email address: Make sure to use a professional email address.
   • Location: You don’t need to include your full address, just the city and state (e.g., New York, NY).
   • LinkedIn profile or website (optional): If you have a LinkedIn profile or a website related to your profession, include the link here.

Make sure to space this information well. You can use one line for each piece of contact information or write them all in a single line separated by commas.

Example :

Amit Sharma
(91) 456-7890 | amit@example.com | Delhi

Step 4: Create Section Headings

Your resume should be organized into clear sections like “Education,” “Experience,” “Skills,” etc. This helps the employer quickly find the information they are looking for.

1. Insert a Section Heading
   To create a section heading:
   • Press “Enter” to move to a new line.
   • Type the name of the section, such as “Education” or “Experience.”
   • Bold the section heading to make it stand out.
2. Align the Section Headings
   Section headings should be aligned to the left. Google Docs automatically aligns text to the left, but if it isn’t, click the “Align left” button at the top of the screen.

Common section headings for resumes are:

• Education
• Work Experience
• Skills
• Certifications
• Awards
• Languages

Step 5: Add Your Education

In the “Education” section, list your educational background, starting with the most recent. Include:

• School name
• Degree (e.g., Bachelor of Science in Computer Science)
• Graduation year (or expected graduation year)
• GPA (optional, only if it’s strong)

Example: