Resume Design Resume and Cover Letter 2 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: When should you use a functional resume format instead of a chronological one?
- When you have extensive work history in one field
- When you are changing careers or have employment gaps (Correct answer)
- When you are a recent graduate with internships
- When applying to federal government jobs
Correct answer: When you are changing careers or have employment gaps
A functional resume emphasizes skills over work history, making it ideal for career changers or those with gaps.
Question 2: What is the ideal length for a cover letter?
- Half a page
- One full page (Correct answer)
- Two pages
- Three paragraphs with no page limit
Correct answer: One full page
A cover letter should be concise and fit on one page to respect the hiring manager's time.
Question 3: Which resume section should immediately follow your contact information if you have fewer than 3 years of experience?
- Work Experience
- Skills
- Education (Correct answer)
- Certifications
Correct answer: Education
Early-career candidates should place Education near the top because it is their strongest credential.
Question 4: What does 'ATS' stand for in the context of resume writing?
- Automated Tracking System
- Applicant Tracking System (Correct answer)
- Application Transfer Software
- Advanced Text Scanner
Correct answer: Applicant Tracking System
An Applicant Tracking System is software employers use to screen resumes before human review.
Question 5: Which of the following is NOT recommended in a modern US resume?
- Bullet points under each job
- A professional summary
- A photo of the applicant (Correct answer)
- Quantified achievements
Correct answer: A photo of the applicant
Including a photo on a US resume is discouraged because it can introduce unconscious bias and is not standard practice.
Question 6: In a cover letter, what should the opening paragraph accomplish?
- List all your skills
- State the job you're applying for and why you're interested (Correct answer)
- Summarize your entire resume
- Request a salary negotiation
Correct answer: State the job you're applying for and why you're interested
The opening paragraph should immediately identify the position and hook the reader with genuine interest.
Question 7: Which font size range is considered standard for resume body text?
- 8–9 pt
- 10–12 pt (Correct answer)
- 13–14 pt
- 15–16 pt
Correct answer: 10–12 pt
Body text between 10–12 pt is readable while keeping the resume compact enough to fit key content.
Resume Design Resume and Cover Letter 2
When should you use a functional resume format instead of a chronological one?