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No Problem: How To List Problem Solving Skills on a Resume

Problem solving is an in-demand skill recruiters want to see on your resume. Learn how to highlight this soft skill with our detailed guide.

2 years ago   •   4 min read

Problem solving is a key skill in life — and in most workplaces. Like any other soft skill, it belongs on your resume. The only question is, how do you prove it?

Keep scrolling as we explain how to put problem solving on your resume in a way that actually lands. We'll also explain where soft skills like problem solving belong and give examples you can follow. But first, let's take a look at exactly what hiring managers mean when they say "problem solving."

Problem solving skills employers are looking for

If a job ad says that a company is looking for applicants with "strong problem solving skills," what does that actually mean?

Hiring managers want people with skills like:

• Critical thinking
• Brainstorming
• Troubleshooting
• Negotiation
• Conflict resolution
• Organization
• Communication
• Attention to detail
• Experimenting
• Observation

That's a lot! So, how do you fit all that on your resume? Here are some tips to get you started.

How to show problem solving skills on a resume

To effectively showcase problem solving skills on your resume, follow these steps:

• Look at the job ad. What kinds of problem solving skills are specifically mentioned? What key responsibilities are likely to involve problem solving?
• Make a list of these skills or responsibilities — this is what you’ll want to address in your resume.
• Think of a time when you’ve demonstrated each problem solving skill or been in a similar situation.
• Format that incident as an accomplishment by starting with a strong action verb.
• Be specific about what you did and what the end result was.
• Check in with a free resume scanner to see how your accomplishments score and what you can improve.

Now let's take a look at where problem solving skills belong on your resume.

Where to include problem solving skills on a resume

The first thing to know is this: Problem solving is a soft skill, which means you should never list it directly in your skills section. Instead, you should:

• Include past examples of problem solving in your work experience bullet points
• List related hard skills in your skills section
• Mention key skills and accomplishments in your resume summary and cover letter
• Use synonyms to avoid repeating "problem solving" over and over

Emphasize real accomplishments

The best place for any soft skill — including problem solving — is in your Work Experience section. Make your bullet points stand out by outlining what the problem was, what action you took, and what the end result was.

Remember: The key is to be specific. For example, instead of:

Solved problems causing long delivery times.

Streamlined the implementation process and reduced the average product delivery time from 10 days to 4 days by redefining responsibilities and improving accountability of employees.

This specifies what the initial problem was, what action you took, and the end result. Use the formula [Action Verb] + [Accomplishment] + [Metric] to keep you on the right track.

List related hard skills

Problem solving is a soft skill, which means you can’t include it outright in your skills section . But what you can do is list hard skills that go hand in hand with problem solving.

For example:

• Data analysis
• Quality assurance
• Engineering
• Programming languages
• Loss prevention
• Accessibility

If you’re unsure what problem solving skills to include in your skills section, use the tool below to search for the job you’re applying to and it’ll give you a list of hard skills relevant to the job.

Include targeted highlights

If you’re applying for a role where you know that problem solving is an essential skill — like most management, data-driven, or customer-facing positions — you can emphasize your ability to solve problems in your resume summary or cover letter .

Do some research to identify the key issues facing the company, like streamlining inefficient business practices or expanding a small customer base, and highlight 2-3 skills or accomplishments related to those areas.

Here's an example:

Find out if your resume shows enough problem solving skills

An important thing to remember when listing problem solving skills on your resume is, just like other soft skills, you need to show how you’ve used problem solving skills in the past. An easy way to check if you’ve shown hiring managers your problem solving skills, is to upload your resume to the tool below — it’ll tell you if your resume has shown problem solving skills the right way, as well as other soft skills like leadership and communication skills.

Synonyms for problem solving on a resume

Trying to avoid repetition? If you’re searching for another word for problem solving to use on a resume, these action verbs have you covered:

• Transformed
• Revitalized
• Streamlined

For even more suggestions, check out our list of resume action verbs for 2024 .

Resume examples of problem solving skills

Looking for more ways to say that you’re a problem solver on a resume? Try these sample bullet points.

Proposed a plan to reduce shrink, which increased work efficiency and customer services by over 75%.

The first step in solving a problem is identifying it. Companies want to hire people who are proactive, not reactive, which means it's worth including an example of a time you first identified a problem and then took steps to solve it.

Developed a contingency plan during tough economic conditions to save $540K per year.

What's better than solving a problem? Preventing it from becoming a problem in the first place!

Reduced double-booking and error rates by 45%, resulting in a $10,800 increase in yearly sales by developing a scheduling system to coordinate advertising space availability with Sales, Designers, and the Editorial team.

The more specific you can get with your bullet points, the better. Remember, the main point of your resume isn't just to show a recruiter what you've done for other companies — it's to help them imagine what you might do for their company.

Executed self-insured health plan including wellness benefits which saved the business in excess of $70K or 20% and influenced over 200 staff members to become healthier.

What hiring managers want to see is results. Any time you can identify a specific positive outcome in your bullet points, you take one step closer to getting hired.

Responded to and managed 50+ inbound requests from members daily.

Struggling to quantify your achievements? It's okay if you don't have access to specific metrics — you can still include numbers for things like how many projects you worked on or how quickly you completed tasks.

Spread the word

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How to Highlight Problem Solving Skills on Your Resume (with Examples)

Instead of coming up with a fake scenario in which your place of work was unexpectedly thrown into chaos and needed someone with good problem solving skills to save the day, why don’t we just use a real example that we all lived through four years ago.

In March of 2020, the Covid-19 pandemic was officially recognized as a true emergency in the US, and business, schools, and all non-essential institutions were told to close their doors for the foreseeable future.

While exact numbers are hard to come by, it shouldn’t come as a surprise to anyone who lived through that fateful year that thousands of businesses closed in March 2020 and never reopened. But what about the businesses that were able to weather the storm? What did they do differently?

Well, they came up with creative solutions to the problem at hand. They pivoted , which is defined in the business world as “the process of changing direction when the current strategy is not delivering the desired results.”

Most Sought-After Problem Solving Skills

Top problem solving skills in 2024.

• Creativity/Innovation
• Adaptability
• Critical/Analytical Thinking
• Communication/Teamwork
• Decision Making

Where to Put These Skills On Your Resume

Summary section.

Professional Summary

Experience Section

World of Computers — Data Analyst, 2020 – 2024

-        Developed creative solutions to two common software anomalies, improving efficiency of the computer hardware and resulting in a 50% decrease in returns of those devices.

Skills Section

Other tips….

But if you’re in that boat, don’t worry! Not all is lost, and you may even have more skills/experience than you think you do. Our recruitment experts are not only great problem-solvers themselves, they also have tons of other job-seeking tips to share with you! Let CyberCoders help you uncover your true potential, put your best foot forward, and find your perfect career match. To learn more, click here !

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• Resume Tips

How to List Problem-Solving Skills on Your Resume

Problem-solving skills are arguably among the most important soft skills that employers look for in new hires. Being able to list problem-solving skills on your resume lets prospective employers know that you can effectively navigate challenges, make informed decisions, and contribute to the success of the team and company. 

Business changes occur every day – companies have to keep up with everything, from competition to changing regulatory practices. When you demonstrate strong problem-solving skills, they know they can depend on you to quickly adapt. Oftentimes, employers will depend on people with strong problem-solving skills to motivate team members to adjust to changes, too. On top of that, when you are able to solve problems quickly, the customers are happier because their issues are being addressed and any inefficiencies are overcome. 

Problem-solving skills go beyond solving problems

You may think that “problem-solving skills” is a talent with the singular focus of finding some issue and fixing it; however, the concept is far broader. They are a multifaceted set of abilities that contribute to your personal career growth and the success of the team you work with, creating an indispensable toolkit for your professional life. 

Let’s talk about how problem-solving skills are more than what’s suggested in the name by touching on a few things that go with having good problem-solving skills:

Critical thinking: If you are a good problem solver, you are likely an adept critical thinker who excels in analyzing situations, breaking down complex issues into manageable components, and evaluating potential solutions. You are probably known for approaching problems with a structured and analytical mindset that allows you to make informed decisions and avoid impulsive actions. Critical thinking is a skill that can be applied to a wide array of tasks and responsibilities, making it an invaluable asset in any role.

Innovation: The word “innovation” is quickly becoming one of those hated buzzwords, but beyond resolving existing issues, problem solvers are often trailblazers. In this capacity, you possess the capacity to identify opportunities for improvement, devise creative solutions, and contribute to organizational growth through an ability to think outside the box and propose novel ideas.

Communication: As an effective problem solver, you are also a skilled communicator . You can articulate thoughts, ideas, and solutions clearly and persuasively to colleagues, superiors, and clients. Usually, if someone needs something explained, they probably come to you because of your ability to articulate things in a way that’s easily understood by everyone.

Decision-making: Being able to make sound decisions is a core component of possessing problem-solving skills. When you have strong problem-solving abilities, you can evaluate options, weigh the pros and cons, and arrive at well-informed decisions. In fact, your capacity to make sound judgments is valuable in roles where choices impact outcomes, resource allocation, and risk management.

Teamwork: If you’re a problem solver, you will often excel in team environments, though you can also work well without supervision. Not only can you contribute to group problem-solving efforts, collaborate effectively with colleagues, and harness collective intelligence to arrive at optimal solutions, but you also have the capacity to solve problems in hybrid or remote environments. 

Leadership potential: The holistic skill set of being a problem solver positions you as a potential leader within your organization. Your ability to tackle complex challenges, guide teams toward solutions, and maintain a commitment to organizational goals is often recognized and rewarded with a promotion to a leadership position.

The great thing about showing potential employers that you have problem-solving skills is that you can do so even if you don’t have a lot of professional experience under your belt. 

Use problem-solving skills to boost your resume

Of course, the only way to let a future employer know that you possess outstanding problem-solving skills is through your resume. Here are some steps for you to consider that will put your resume over the top and help you land a coveted interview spot:

1. Use problem-solving skills in your profile summary

Your resume's opening statement, or profile paragraph , is the ideal place to mention your problem-solving abilities. This profile paragraph is a three to five-sentence elevator speech that highlights the core achievements of your career so far. Use this as an opportunity to introduce you to the new employer but also highlight your problem-solving skills. For example:

"Accomplished UX Design Leader with a decade of experience analyzing client requirements to transform digital landscapes into visually captivating and user-centric environments. Consistently employ a passion for discovering pain points and simplifying complexity to make a meaningful impact on target audiences. "

You’ll notice that the phrase “problem-solving skills” isn’t in the text of this example. You can demonstrate a skill without actually using the phrase. The ability to do this elevates your application and gains the respect of future employers because you’re not simply telling them that you can solve problems; you’ve told them how you solve problems and what the outcome is. 

PRO TIP: It is critical to write your resume using action and accomplishments phrases. This lets hiring managers know that you’re an achiever rather than a doer. The best way to do this is to use the STAR method to create a superior resume .

2. Build a tailored “Core Proficiencies” section

The “Core Proficiencies” section is sometimes referred to as the “Beat the Bots” section. It’s the place to put keywords and phrases that align with what the job description calls for so that you can get past the Applicant Tracking System (ATS) . Adding “problem-solving” skills to your “Core Proficiencies” is a great way to let the reader know you possess the skill. Additionally, you can add in other soft skills like “decision-making,” “creativity,” and “troubleshooting” to help your application stand out from the crowd. 

3. Talk about problem-solving skills in your “Professional Experience” section

A great way to grab the attention of a prospective employer is to mention achievements from past jobs. One of the few ways a hiring manager can find out what you’ll bring to the table for them is to see what you did for past employers. Use bullet points to talk about what you achieved with your problem-solving skills at your old jobs. 

Ensure that the points you are making on your resume resonate with what the new employer wants. The best way to do that is to eliminate non-relevant bullet points. Remember, your resume isn’t a chronicle of everything you’ve ever done during your career, it is a targeted marketing document that speaks to a particular job. 

Here's an example of how to effectively include problem-solving achievements in your " Professional Experience " section:

Previous Job Title: Project Manager

Company XYZ, Anytown, USA — January 2020 to Present

Led a cross-functional team to identify and rectify bottlenecks in the production process, resulting in a 20% increase in overall efficiency.

Developed and implemented a cost-saving initiative that reduced departmental expenses by 15% within the first quarter.

Resolved a critical project delay by reassigning tasks and reallocating resources, ensuring the project was completed on time and within budget.

Collaborated with the customer support team to identify recurring customer complaints, leading to the implementation of a new customer feedback system that resulted in a 25% decrease in support requests.

Unlock exciting career opportunities

When you strategically incorporate problem-solving skills, like adaptability, creativity, and critical thinking, into your resume, doors will open, and hiring managers will be begging you for interviews. It’s not just about getting a job; it’s about opening doors to a fulfilling and dynamic journey that will, most likely, end with you having the word “leader” behind your name. 

The key takeaways from aptly demonstrating problem-solving skills:

Attract hiring managers’ attention: Problem-solving skills are in high demand across industries and across the world. Employers actively seek candidates who can resolve challenges and make informed decisions. 

Demonstrate value: By showing results of using problem-solving skills in past jobs, you illustrate the tangible value you bring to potential employers. 

Build confidence: A well-crafted resume that resonates with employers will boost your confidence and allow you to speak about your experiences and contributions. 

Career advancement: When your resume showcases problem-solving abilities, you end up with a tool that helps you step into promotions and greater responsibility. 

Since problem-solving skills are so much more than figuring out how to fix something that’s broken or not working, they’re really a ticket to unlocking the career path you’ve been working tirelessly to achieve, be sure your resume is filling the bill. 

ZipJob’s team of professional resume writers are, hands-down, the best people you can work with to properly showcase your problem-solving skills to potential employers. 

Recommended reading:

Top 15 Skills Employers Are Hiring For in 2023

How to Leverage Soft Skills to Win Interviews

Interpersonal Skills Can Give You the Competitive Career Advantage You Need

Marsha Hebert, Professional Resume Writer

Marsha is a resume writer with a strong background in marketing and writing. After completing a Business Marketing degree, she discovered that she could combine her passion for writing with a natural talent for marketing. For more than 10 years, Marsha has helped companies and individuals market themselves. Read more advice from Marsha on ZipJob's blog .

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• Soft Skills Explained - and...

Soft Skills Explained - and the Top 7 for Your Resume

10 min read · Updated on March 27, 2024

You've heard the term “soft skills,” but do you know which employers find most valuable?

If you've ever applied for a job or used a resume, chances are that you recognize the term soft skills . A good resume will always include a balanced mix of job-related technical hard skills and key soft skills - and having the right soft skills for your resume can often be the determining factor that separates you from everyone else who applies for the job.

But do you really know what soft skills are and why they are important? Well, you can relax, because we have the answers you need! In this post, we'll explain everything you need to know about soft skills for a resume and highlight the top seven skills that can enhance your chances of landing your next job.

What are soft skills?

Soft skills include all those social and people skills that you possess, as well as aspects of your personality and key character traits. They're the interpersonal skills and work habits that you use each day to provide value for an employer. They include key skills like communication, adaptability, and the ability to collaborate with others.

Soft skills vs hard skills

When it comes to understanding soft skills, it's sometimes easier to think about them in terms of how they differ from hard skills. The latter are skills that you've learned through education , formal and informal training, and hands-on instruction. They're more technical , and can typically be measured. Examples of hard skills include machine operation, computer programming, typing, and accounting.

Soft skills are the opposite - they involve more innate, natural traits and interpersonal abilities that can span across all professions and industries. And unlike hard skills, soft skills are difficult to measure.

Why are soft skills important on a resume?

A lot of professionals in your industry likely possess many of the same hard skills that you'll list in your resume. If you're an Accountant, chances are other Accountants are proficient with the accounting software programs you use. If you're a Medical Coder, then you probably have similar, if not the same, technical skills as other Medical Coders. You get the point.

That's why focusing all your energy and resume real estate on your hard skills will make it more difficult to stand out from other job applicants. Your soft skills, however, can provide you with more of an edge.

Outside of job applications, soft skills can also help you to do your job better. They can enable you to be more proficient with time management, stress management, conflict resolution, and teamwork. If you can demonstrate that you have a strong set of soft skills that will help you to excel at your job, that can not only help you to land your dream role but could even give you an advantage when it's time for a promotion or a raise.

Top seven soft skills for your resume

As you sit down and start thinking about your soft skills, you might wonder which skills employers find the most valuable. The good news is that there are some soft skills that almost every employer wants to see on a job candidate's resume. Below are the top seven prized soft skills for your resume.

1.     Leadership

Employers are always looking for candidates who possess leadership skills, so including these soft skills in your resume is important. That's especially true for companies that prefer to promote from within. When companies hire candidates with proven leadership skills, they know that those employees will be more likely to align themselves with the firm's goals and mission.

It's important to also note that leadership is not a singular skill. It is instead a skill set that encompasses a variety of abilities that can help you to inspire others, motivate them, and build productive relationships. Some of the most desirable leadership skills include authenticity, emotional intelligence, the ability to mentor others, conflict resolution, confidence, and many other key traits and talents.

Related Post : These 14 Leadership Traits Can Fuel Your Career Success

2.     Adaptability

Many of today's employers prioritize job candidates who can demonstrate their ability to adapt to change. While technological change is obviously proceeding at a rapid pace, nearly every other aspect of business is also evolving before our very eyes. Employers need to know that you have the capacity to roll with those changes and adapt to new situations and challenges.

Adaptability skills can include everything from flexibility and consistency to patience, optimism, and a desire to learn new things. Expressing these skills in your resume can help to demonstrate your adaptability and resilience.

3.     Communication

Effective communication is essential in every industry, so make sure that you accurately convey those skills to prospective employers. Depending on the job role you're seeking, there are many distinct communication skills that you can highlight in your resume to deliver that narrative. These include verbal, written, and nonverbal communication skills, expertise in negotiation, conflict resolution, public speaking, presentation, active listening, and more.

4.     Problem-solving

Are you a critical or analytical thinker who excels at resolving problems? If so, then employers want to know about your problem-solving skills. Every business has a need for problem solvers, so make sure that you highlight key skills like risk assessment, research abilities, resourcefulness, and decision-making in your resume.

5.     Collaboration

Teamwork is an important part of any company's success, so your ability to collaborate with others may play a significant role in determining whether you can land your dream job. These skills include traits and abilities like trustworthiness, active communication, reliability, and respect for others. To highlight this skill, focus on including at least one notable achievement in your work experience section that demonstrates how your ability to collaborate provided value for a previous employer.

6.     Time management

The ability to effectively manage time is a core element of employee success and productivity - which is why employers universally value time management skills. Like other skills on this list, time management involves the use of a variety of soft skills, including organizational abilities, planning, goal setting, management of stress, and a talent for being able to prioritize tasks. Including these soft skills in your resume can be a terrific way to demonstrate your ability to productively provide real value for an employer.

Related Post: How to be More Productive: 10 Productivity Tips

7.     Attention to detail

A detail-oriented mindset can be critical for ensuring that work is done properly the first time. Employers want candidates who are focused on details, because they know that those job seekers will be likely to do more than just go through the motions each day. If your mindset emphasizes attention to detail, your work is likely to reflect that focus. Detail-oriented job seekers are often self-aware, able to concentrate on tasks, and committed to accuracy.

What soft skills do you have? How do you identify them?

Identifying your own soft skills will require some introspection. To start this process, think about the times you've excelled at your job, noting the situation and the outcome. What skills did you use to help you accomplish your goal? What praise and feedback did you receive?

You'll also want to think about any conversations you've had with managers about your overall performance. Chances are, they've praised your soft skills or perhaps identified some soft skills you can improve.

If you're still having trouble identifying your soft skills, consider reaching out to coworkers, managers, or mentors. Ask them about your soft skills and specific instances in which these skills shined.

How do you develop soft skills?

Although soft skills are typically abilities that seem natural, there are still ways to develop them. Here are a few strategies you can employ:

Seek advice: Ask your manager, co-worker, or even a friend to help you improve a particular soft skill. For example, if your co-workers seem to have no issue hitting deadlines and you find yourself struggling, ask about their time management strategies. See if you can implement any of their advice into your daily routine.

Find ways to practice: With many soft skills, the best way to develop them is to simply practice. If you want to become a better leader, seek out additional leadership opportunities. If you want to become a more creative problem solver, take on projects that require creative problem solving. The key is to develop a habit of using desired soft skills whenever you can, to hone them over time.

Take an online course: If you're struggling to improve your soft skills on your own, you can find an online course that can help. Udemy , for example, offers online courses on just about every topic, including productivity, leadership, stress management, creativity, and even self-esteem.

Work with a mentor or career coach: If you don't feel comfortable eliciting the help of your managers or co-workers, consider finding an outside mentor or career coach to help you assess and improve your soft skills.

Overall, a good rule of thumb is to be more mindful. For example, if you'd like to get better at managing your stress, take a moment in high-stress situations to sit back, breathe, and assess the situation. If you want to be better at organization, set aside 30 minutes each day to organize your physical and digital space. That mindfulness can ensure that you remain self-aware and focused on your developmental goals.

How do you show off your soft skills on your resume?

Now that you've identified your soft skills, it's time to make them shine on your resume. Remember, correctly highlighting these skills can help you to stand out from other job applicants.

One of the best ways to display your soft skills is to add a skills section to your resume. In this section, you don't necessarily want to list every single soft skill you've identified. Instead, look at the job you're applying for and take note of any skills highlighted in the role description. Make sure to focus on demonstrating those soft skills in your resume.

Then, as you assess your skills section on your resume, ask yourself these four questions:

Are these skills up to date? Make sure you keep this section updated as you participate in new training, attend seminars, and complete new projects.

Are these skills unique to me? You don't want to list the same generic soft skills as everyone else; the point is to stand apart from the crowd.

Is my skills section easy to read? Your skills section should be clear, scannable, and easy to digest. 

Can I support these skills with examples? Make sure you'll feel confident talking about your soft skills during a job interview.

In addition to your resume's skills section, you can also weave evidence of your soft skills into the job descriptions within your work history section. For example, if you want to prove your leadership skills, you can note that you have experience managing a department of 15 employees. If you want to highlight your negotiation skills, mention your biggest sales with clients, using real numbers to quantify the results you achieved.

Related Post : 47 Accomplishment Examples for Your Resume: Expert Picks

Last thoughts 

While it's tempting to focus only on job-specific hard skills in your resume, it's important to remember that other candidates will almost certainly have the same type of skills. That's why it's vital to include soft skills in your resume too, to help separate you from those rival job seekers. By including these seven key soft skills that most employers are looking for, you can increase your chances of landing the interviews you need to land a fantastic job.

If you're still not sure how to effectively include soft skills in your resume and differentiate your candidacy from your rivals, get your free resume review today.

This article was originally written by Carson Kohler and has been updated by Ken Chase. 

Recommended reading:

The Top 10 Job Skills Employers Want

“Will Robots Take My Job?” 4 Marketable Skills AI Can't Take from You

Why Hard and Soft Skills Are So Important for Your Resume

Related Articles:

Do Hiring Managers Actually Read Cover Letters?

How to Create a Resume With No Education

Why You Lose When You Lie on Your Resume: Learning From Mina Chang

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How to List Problem Solving Skills on a Resume| A Comprehensive Guide

Problem solving skills have always been an indispensable quality in the job market and are highly valued by employers across all sectors. Highlighting these skills on your resume shows a potential employer your ability to navigate workplace challenges with ease and composure.

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There is a steady demand for professionals who have strong analytical skills, critical thinking skills and can offer innovative solutions to help an organization grow. These qualities are highly valued by hiring managers and recruiters. So, if you possess problem solving skills but are confused on how to incorporate them into your resume, then you have come to the right place. In this guide, we will be defining these key skills that make you a reliable problem solver in the eyes of a prospective employer. We will also show you how to present the most relevant problem solving skills in your own resume to help you leave a lasting impression on a hiring manager and recruiter.

What are problem solving skills?

Organizations value individuals who have the ability to navigate the complexities of a professional environment by implementing a sound problem solving process. This process enables professionals to analyze a situation, identify the main challenge and devise the best strategy to overcome it. Problem solving skills are not just limited to resolving issues but also include critical thinking, creativity and adaptability. Let's dive deeper into understanding the main components of problem solving skills.

The foundation of a person's ability to solve problems lies in their critical thinking. A critical thinker can analyze and evaluate information objectively and draw logical conclusions. It also helps applying a rational approach which lays the groundwork for effective and creative solutions.

Analytical skills are an essential component of problem solving. In a work environment, these skills are necessary to interpret data, identify trends and aid a company to make informed decisions. These skills help empower employees to extract important insights which help steer an organization in the right direction.

Creative thinking is the one thing that can distinguish a problem solver from a basic paper pusher. Creative thinkers approach an issue in an unconventional manner which helps them curate innovative and out-of-the-box solutions. This skill can inject a fresh dose of vitality into tackling work issues. It also helps foster an environment where different perspectives and unconventional ideas are always welcome.

Communication skills are the main conduit for facilitating effective problem solving at the workplace. Effective communication involves articulating your ideas clearly as well as listening to what your colleagues and team members have to say. Strong communication helps maintain a collaborative atmosphere where everyone can coordinate their efforts and work towards a common goal.

Being detail-oriented can go a long way in improving your problem solving abilities. This involves implementing a meticulous approach to tasks and ensuring accuracy and precision in every step of the way. A detail oriented professional can help preempt professional catastrophes and aid in refining strategies to stay one step ahead of the issue.

Adaptability is also a very important trait to be a problem solver. Challenges are constantly evolving and presenting themselves in new ways. To tackle these, you need to be ready to adjust your strategies in accordance with the changing circumstances. Being adaptable, means you embrace change which is a very valuable asset in a dynamic and ever evolving professional landscape.

There are many different layers to identifying your own unique set of problem solving skills. These skills can help you excel in a company and propel you towards success in all aspects of your professional career.

Resume Examples to Showcase Problem Solving Skills

Every professional resume needs to showcase your strongest professional attributes and qualifications. In this section, we will illustrate how to highlight problem solving skills through these resume examples . Let's dive in.

Problem Solving Resume Example: Software Architect

Jill Gladstone

Software Architect

(000)-000-1111

[email protected]

linkedin.com/in/jill-gladstone

Solutions-oriented software architect with 8+ years of experience in designing and implementing innovative and effective software solutions. Skilled at analyzing complex problems and devising scalable system architecture to meet the company's needs. Possess strong problem solving skills and dedicated to stay ahead of technological trends.

ABC Tech Solutions, Austin, Texas

May 2019 - Present

• Conduct regular code reviews to identify and rectify potential vulnerabilities and inefficiencies in the system.
• Address scalability issues by implementing a critical financial system which has improved the overall performance by 30%.

Software Engineer

RTC Innovations, Austin, Texas

July 2015 - April 2019

• Spearheaded the redesign of a 10+ mobile gaming apps by creatively improving usability issues and increasing customer engagement by 40%.
• Developed full proof testing processes reducing the percentage of post release defects by 30%.
• Research skills
• Problem solving skills
• System design
• Cloud computing

Communication skills

Analytical skills.

• Software architecture

Bachelor of Science in Computer Science

University of Texas, Dallas

Graduation Date- March, 2015

Problem Solving Resume Example: Data Analyst

Data Analyst

(000)-111-1111

[email protected]

linkedin.com/in/mary-jones

Detail-oriented data analyst with 6 years of experience in translating complex data into actionable insights. Proficient in data analysis and proven ability to creatively solve problems effectively. Dedicated to helping companies make informed business decisions by identifying trends and outliers in the market.

HJK Data Co, Tampa, Florida

March 2021- Present

• Conduct in-depth data analysis of customer behaviour and identified opportunities for targeting marketing, resulting in a 15% increase in conversion rates.
• Developed an efficient data cleaning procedure which led to a 30% decrease in errors and improved process efficiency.

Data Scientist

TDH Corporation, Tampa, Florida

June 2018 - February 2021

• Provided actionable insights to the marketing team by analyzing problems in the customer survey data which resulted in 20% increase in client satisfaction.
• Assisted with the product development strategies by conducting exploratory analysis on large data sets.
• Contributed to the improvement of inventory management by accurately forecasting sales trends in the market.
• Data analysis
• Proficient in Microsoft Excel, Python and SQL
• Organizational skills
• Database management
• Bachelor of Science in Data Science
• University of Florida, Miami
• Graduation Date- March, 2018

Tips to Effectively Demonstrate Problem Solving Skills on a Resume

Employers highly value candidates who have exceptional problem solving skills. These surpass technical expertise and need to be adequately represented in the important sections of your resume. In order to convey your problem solving abilities in your job application, you need to draft your resume accordingly. Showcasing your problem solving skills effectively can help you distinguish yourself from other candidates.

The first step to making a resume that can highlight problem solving skills effectively is constructing a powerful resume summary. A professional summary serves as an introduction to your resume and provides a brief overview of your skills, experience and qualifications. Write a summary that communicates your ability to solve problems by highlighting relevant experiences and skills that showcase that. Tailor this section to meet the requirements of the employer as detailed in the job description.

In the work experience section, use specific examples of problem solving in your previous roles. Use the STAR (Situation, Task, Action, Result) method to structure your bullet points. Describe the challenges you faced and the steps you took to address the same. Highlight instances in your work history which can prove your ability to tackle any kind of challenges you face in a workplace. Opt for strong action verbs to describe your contributions in solving problems.

The skills section of your resume gives you the opportunity to list problem solving skills in a structured and organized manner. In addition to your technical skills, make sure to detail your other soft skills like critical thinking, communication and adaptability which reflect your problem solving capabilities.

If you want your resume to further highlight your problem solving skills, then you can consider making a separate section to showcase projects where you had to apply these specific skills. Provide a brief description about the project while providing a detailed outline about the obstacles you had to overcome. Write about how you refine solutions and emphasize the impact of your measurable actions.

Customize your resume before every job application by aligning your problem solving experience and skills with the requirements of the position. This step ensures that the most relevant information on your resume stands out to hiring managers and prospective employers.

Do not forget to proofread your resume and make sure that it is free of grammatical and formatting errors. To convince a hiring manager that you can resolve problems, you need to present a flawless application and an impressive professional image.

Best Examples of Problem Solving Skills

In a competitive job market, organizations are on the lookout for professionals who not not only have the technical expertise but also apply a strategic and creative approach to solving issues professionally. Let's take a look at some of the main problem solving skills that hiring managers are on the lookout for.

Critical Thinking Skills

Critical thinking is an essential cognitive ability to be able to solve tricky situations. Employers seek individuals who can approach an issue with an objective and logical mind to figure the best course forward. Critical thinking enables professionals to make well-informed decisions as they are adept at identifying underlying issues within an organization. A company always values employees who can address unforeseen challenges through strategic planning.

Research Skills

Researching is an integral part of problem solving. Before you can come up with solutions, you need to gather as much information as you can to understand what you are dealing with. Extensive research goes a long way in implementing long lasting measures to tackle challenges.

Decision Making Skills

Good decision making is one of the main problem solving skills that employers are on the lookout for. This quality is especially high on demand for leadership roles. This skill involves exhibiting decisiveness in making well-informed decisions and inspiring confidence in your leadership abilities. The ability to take action in high-pressure situations is one of the key aspects of problem solving.

The demand for professionals with analytical skills is on the rise, especially in this data-driven job market. This skill aids a candidate's ability to effectively resolve issues with the help of qualitative and quantitative analysis of any given data. This skill is extremely valuable in steering your team or organization towards a successful outcome.

Team Collaboration

In a company, it is impossible to single handedly solve issues and conflicts. Problem solving on a large scale is the most effective when it is a coordinated team effort. Team players help foster a collaborative work environment where everyone is working towards a shared goal.

To be able to implement problem solving strategies, it is important to be able to communicate your ideas eloquently. Employers prefer candidates who can articulate their ideas and at the same time be good listeners. These qualities help you be on the same page with your team and help you work in tandem to achieve the larger organizational goals.

Creative Thinking

Innovative solutions are the product of creative thinking making it a necessary element of an individual's problem solving abilities. Professionals who can offer unconventional solutions contribute to organizational growth by encouraging a culture of innovation. Employers seek professionals who can face challenges and offer fresh perspectives to overcome them.

Adding Problem Solving Skills in Your Cover Letter

A cover letter acts as an introduction to your resume which gives you the opportunity to highlight your problem solving skills along with your other qualifications. Employers are always on the lookout for individuals who can handle their own in a high-stress situation, and a cover letter is the best platform to elaborate on those qualities.

It is important to get to the point in your opening paragraph itself as it sets the tone for the rest of the cover letter. Begin with a compelling statement that can capture the attention of a hiring manager in an instant. Adapt a bold approach and point out a specific problem with the company you are applying to and express your eagerness to contribute solutions for the same.

In the main body of your letter, delve into specific experiences from your prior work history that show your problem solving skills in a good light. Clearly specify the issue, the actions you took and detail the positive impact of your actions. Make sure you include all aspects of problem solving like critical thinking, adaptability and teamwork.

Make a connection between your problem solving skills and the specific needs of the company. Use this space to market yourself as the most suitable candidate for the position. The best way to accomplish that is by researching the organization thoroughly and identifying the challenges that they are currently facing. Tailor your resume to address how your skills and expertise align with the goals and objectives of the organization.

Write a memorable closing statement by expressing your interest in the role and convey your desire to contribute to the success of the organization.

How to Improve Problem Solving Skills?

The professional world is moving at a rapid pace across all sectors. It is an absolute necessity to keep honing your problem solving skills to ensure constant career growth and professional development. Professionals who can adapt with the changing times stand out in their respective fields. To stay relevant, it is important to constantly evolve and sharpen your skill sets as a working professional.

Stay ahead of industry trends and emerging technologies to keep your problem solving skills up to date. Enroll in workshops or undertake a certificate course to broaden your knowledge. This continuous learning approach can help sharpen your problem solving skills and help you stay relevant in the professional world.

Engage and network with colleagues and professionals from your line of work. These interactions encourage a rich learning environment and keep the spirit of collaboration alive. There is a lot to be learnt from our common pool of knowledge and you can always access it by cultivating an active professional network.

Key Takeaways

• Problem solving skills are highly valued by hiring organizations and employers.
• Critical thinking, analytical skills, research, communication and adaptability are the main problem solving skills.
• Read the job description to accurately include the most relevant problem solving qualities in the summary, skills and experience sections of your resume.
• Complement your job application with a cover letter which emphasizes your problem solving skills.
• Ensure to constantly work towards improving your professional skill set. ‍

Create your resume with the best templates

Frequently Asked Questions

According to LinkedIn, the top problem solving skills that employers are on the lookout for are critical thinking, emotional intelligence, data literacy and adaptability.

To highlight your problem solving skills, you need to include them in every essential section of your resume. The first section that needs to highlight this set of skills is your resume summary. Make sure to convey that you are solutions oriented and can devise strategies in high pressure situations as well. In the experience section, list specific issues you faced in your previous jobs and how you tackled them. Lastly, in the skills section make sure to list all the skills that reflect your ability to troubleshoot and solve issues in a calm and professional manner.

It is not recommended to directly call yourself a problem solver on a resume. The best way to showcase you as a problem solver is by mentioning specific instances and tangible examples of situations where you have exhibited these qualities. Your resume has different sections where you can touch upon your professional ability to approach an obstacle in a creative and unconventional manner.

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Our free collection of expertly designed cover letter templates will help you stand out from the crowd and get one step closer to your dream job.

Sample letters to download

Cover Letter

Advice for getting a job, instructions.

Resume Synonyms for Responded

Feel like 'responded' on your resume isn't fully showcasing your proactive communication skills? You're in good company. Our guide will help you discover powerful resume synonyms for 'responded' to highlight your quick-thinking and effective problem-solving abilities in a more dynamic manner.

Table of Contents

Using responded on a resume.

"Using 'Responded' On Your Resume" The term 'Responded' is a dynamic word that holds a significant place in the professional sphere. Essentially, it signifies the act of reacting or replying to a situation, query, or challenge. It's a word that suggests adaptability, communication skills, and the ability to handle unexpected situations or problems. In the context of a resume, 'Responded' is often used to illustrate one's ability to deal with issues and inquiries effectively. It's a term that hiring managers frequently look for as it indicates that the candidate has experience in addressing problems, providing solutions, and maintaining open lines of communication. It communicates that you have been faced with various situations in the past and have successfully managed to navigate through them. However, while 'Responded' is a potent term, it isn't always the most impactful language to use on your resume. The word is so widely used that it can sometimes become a cliché, losing its power. Moreover, it may not fully encapsulate the range and depth of your skills and experiences. Therefore, it's advantageous to consider using other synonyms or more descriptive terms that can better convey your abilities and achievements. By doing so, you can make your resume stand out, and give potential employers a more comprehensive understanding of your capabilities.

Tailor Your Resume Content to the Job Description

Strong vs Weak Uses of Responded

Examples of using responded on a resume.

• Responded to over 500 customer inquiries per week, maintaining a 98% satisfaction rate and significantly improving the company's reputation.
• Responded promptly and effectively to IT-related issues, reducing downtime by 30% and increasing overall productivity.
• Responded to and resolved complex technical issues, leading to a 20% increase in client retention rate.
• Responded to emails and phone calls from customers.
• Responded to IT issues when they were reported.

How Responded Is Commonly Misused

Responded to customer inquiries, responded to emails, responded to emergencies, responded to client needs, responded to feedback, when to replace responded with another synonym, addressing customer inquiries:, reacting to crisis situations:, engaging with feedback:, best resume synonyms for responded, how to replace responded with a stronger, more relevant synonym, replacing responded in your resume summary.

Using Responded

Using a Strong Synonym

Replacing Responded in Your Work Experience

• Responded to customer inquiries and complaints, ensuring customer satisfaction.
• Proactively addressed customer inquiries and complaints, delivering high-quality service and enhancing customer satisfaction.

Powerful Responded Synonyms for Different Job Categories

Best responded synonyms for marketing resumes, best responded synonyms for customer service resumes, find the right synonyms for any job, frequently asked questions.

A great replacement for 'Responded' on a resume could be 'Addressed'. This word implies that you not only responded to a situation or request, but also dealt with it effectively. For example, instead of saying "Responded to customer complaints", you could say "Addressed customer complaints, resulting in a 20% increase in customer satisfaction scores".

It's appropriate to use "responded" on your resume when you're describing a situation where you've addressed issues, inquiries, or feedback. For instance, "Responded to customer complaints and inquiries to ensure customer satisfaction" or "Responded to technical issues, improving system uptime by 20%". It showcases your ability to take action and communicate effectively.

You can gauge if "responded" is relevant for your resume by considering if your role involved addressing inquiries, issues, or tasks. For instance, if you were in customer service and regularly responded to customer complaints, or in a managerial role where you responded to team or client needs, then "responded" would be appropriate. Remember, it's crucial to use action verbs like "responded" to demonstrate your active engagement and achievements in your roles.

Which Job Titles use Responded the Most?

Top 5 titles/functions with the most mentions of responded on their resume:, related resume synonyms, explore full resume examples to find other improvements.

Guidance to Improve Your Resume Language for Greater Impact

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Another phrase for "problem solving"

I've read through some past posts and see a lot of advice on giving examples instead of saying "I'm good at problem solving." Generally, I agree. However, I'm in IT and run a Technical Services Team and receive escalated cases all day long. There aren't just simple examples. I don't bandage the problem, I dive in and find the root cause. I engage other teams, when necessary. I encourage my team to do the same - don't solve and move on, dig in to find the root and solve it so well that it won't happen again.

Any recommendations on how to say that in three words? ;-) Okay, maybe a short phrase?

Jobscan > Resume Formats

Resume Formats That Help Get You Job Interviews

Find out how to choose the best resume format to showcase your skills, experience, and achievements.

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A good resume format organizes your skills, experience, and achievements. It tells hiring managers what they need to know.

Having a good resume format is important for another reason. It helps applicant tracking systems (ATS) read and understand your resume.

ATS is a computer software that most companies use today to help them hire employees. One of the main jobs of ATS is to screen the hundreds of resumes that come in for every job opening.

If your resume isn’t formatted the right way, the ATS will have trouble reading it. This makes it far less likely that a hiring manager will see your resume.

Don’t worry! Choosing a resume format isn’t as hard as it sounds. This article will guide you through the process.

By the end of it, you’ll know which resume format is best for your situation.

The 3 basic resume formats

There are three basic resume formats to choose from. They are:

• Chronological – Lists your work history in order, starting with your most recent job first.
• Functional – Focuses on your skills and accomplishments instead of your work history.
• Hybrid – Places your skills and accomplishments at the top, before your work history.

It’s important to understand the pros and cons of each format. This allows you to choose the one that best suits your specific situation and career goals.

After choosing a format, consider using a resume template to help create your resume. A template is a pre-designed layout that provides a structured framework for presenting your skills and experience. All you have to do is fill in your information.

Jobscan has a variety of free resume templates you can use. Our templates come in all three resume formats and each one is ATS-friendly.

Chronological

The chronological resume format

Also known as the “reverse chronological” resume, this is the most common type of format. You’re most likely already familiar with it.

As the name suggests, this format lists your most recent job first. Then your second-most recent job, your third-most recent job, etc…

Why do hiring managers like the chronological resume?

Hiring managers often prefer the chronological resume format for several reasons:

• It’s easy to follow – Recruiters can scan through your resume. It’s easy for them to find the companies you’ve worked for and the positions you’ve held.
• It’s the most traditional – Hiring managers are very familiar with this format. It won’t confuse them.
• It shows your career growth – Your work history makes it easy for recruiters to see how your career is going.

Who should use the chronological resume format?

Because this resume format focuses on work experience, it’s often used by job seekers who:

Have a strong work history

This format is ideal for job seekers who have lots of relevant work experience. It allows recruiters to see your career trajectory at a glance. They can get a good sense of the breadth and depth of your expertise.

Work in traditional industries

Many traditional industries prefer the chronological format. These industries include finance, engineering, healthcare, and legal professions. These sectors generally place a strong emphasis on a candidate’s work history.

Have a stable career path

The chronological resume is good at showing steady career growth within an industry. Hiring managers like to see this because it shows commitment.

How to set up a chronological resume

The reverse chronological resume contains the following sections, from top to bottom:

• Contact Information : Begin your resume with your name, phone number, and email address. You can also include a professional website or LinkedIn profile (if applicable).
• Resume Summary : This is a short statement about your goals, qualifications, and experience. It should provide a snapshot of your professional profile.
• Work Experience : This is the heart of the chronological resume. List your jobs in reverse chronological order, starting with your most recent position. Include the company name, job title, and dates of employment. Add a brief description of your responsibilities and accomplishments for each role.
• Education : This section should also be in reverse chronological order. List degrees earned, school names, and graduation dates. You may also want to list academic honors or certifications relevant to your field.
• Skills : This section allows you to highlight relevant skills. Include both hard and soft skills.
• Additional Sections : Depending on your background, you may choose to include more sections. These could include volunteer work, hobbies, publications, or foreign languages.

You don’t have to create your resume from scratch. You can use a resume template. This is a pre-designed layout that includes all the sections listed above. All you have to do is fill in your information.

Jobscan has free resume templates . Each one is ATS-friendly and can be easily customized to suit your needs.

Pros and cons of the chronological resume format

• Draws attention to employment gaps – Shows if you’ve had periods of unemployment or job breaks.
• Not ideal for career changers – Does not highlight your transferable skills. These are important if you are making a significant career change.
• Less focus on skills – Does not immediately highlight your specific skills. These are listed later in a separate skills section.
• Emphasizes career progression – Highlights promotions, increased responsibilities, and relevant experience.
• Preferred by recruiters – This makes it easy for them to assess your work history.
• Shows career stability – A stable career shows commitment to a job or industry.
• ATS-friendly – Applicant tracking systems are familiar with this format. They should have no problem reading and understanding your information.

Functional resume format

This is also known as the skills-based resume format. It’s quite different from the chronological resume format.

The chronological format focuses on your work history. The functional format focuses on your skills and achievements. It minimizes your work experience.

This has several advantages:

• Focusing on your skills helps recruiters see if you can do the job.
• This format downplays negatives like employment gaps, career changes, and limited work experience. Instead, it focuses on positives, such as your transferable skills.
• This format also focuses on achievements that are relevant to the job you’re applying to. This makes it easier for recruiters to assess your capabilities.

Why do hiring managers like the functional format?

Actually, hiring managers don’t like the functional resume format!

This is because the lack of work experience makes it hard for them to understand your career. The functional format can also hide periods of unemployment. Hiring managers prefer transparency.

Another big reason why you shouldn’t use the functional resume format is that it’s not ATS-friendly.

ATS scan resumes for specific keywords, job titles, and dates. They use this information to assess an applicant’s qualifications for a specific job.

But functional resumes don’t focus on job titles and dates. So the ATS might have trouble reading and understanding them. As a result, functional resumes may not receive high rankings from an ATS.

Who should use the functional resume format?

While we don’t recommend using a functional resume, it can help certain job seekers. Especially those who:

Have transferable skills

Are you considering a career change? The functional format might be for you. It emphasizes your transferable skills that are relevant to the desired role.

Transferable skills are abilities that you can use in any job in any field or industry. They include things like communication, problem-solving, leadership, time management, organization, and adaptability.

Have limited work experience

The functional resume is for recent graduates or people with limited work experience. This is because it highlights things like your school achievements, hobbies, and volunteering.

Have employment gaps

The functional format downplays gaps in your work history. It redirects the focus of hiring managers toward your skills.

How to set up a functional resume

When creating a functional resume, follow this structure:

• Contact Information: This is the same regardless of which resume format you choose. Include your name, phone number, email address, and location.
• Resume Summary: The resume summary provides a concise snapshot of your qualifications. It should touch upon your unique skills, expertise, and accomplishments. The goal is to attract the reader’s interest.
• Skills Section : This is the heart of your functional (or skills-based) resume. This section should include a combination of hard skills (technical abilities specific to the job) and soft skills (transferable skills like communication , leadership , problem-solving , etc.).
• Use bullet points when creating your skills section. List your most relevant skills first. Whenever possible, try to include achievements that display relevant skills.
• Work Experience: Whatever work experience you have should come after your skills section. Don’t list detailed job descriptions. Instead, focus on the accomplishments, projects, and experiences that show your skills.
• Education : Include information about your educational background. This includes degrees earned, institution names, and graduation dates. Also include relevant coursework, certifications , or academic achievements.

If you don’t want to build your functional resume from scratch, try Jobscan’s free resume templates . They’re easy to customize and each one is ATS-friendly.

Pros and cons of the functional resume format

• Lack of detailed work history – Employers often want to see your work experience to see if you can do the job.
• No career timeline – Recruiters may find it hard to grasp the chronology of your work experience. This is because the focus is on your skills.
• Less suitable for established industries – Some industries focus more on work history.
• Highlights skills and achievements – This shows employers that you have what it takes to do the job.
• Good for career changers – This format focuses on your transferable skills. These give recruiters a good idea of your potential.
• Hides employment gaps – This format can lessen concerns about gaps in your work history.

Hybrid resume format

The hybrid resume format is becoming more popular. It combines the best aspects of the chronological and functional resume formats.

That’s why it’s called a hybrid .

The hybrid resume emphasizes both skills and work history. It features a dedicated skills section at the top of the resume. Below that is a chronological work experience section.

This format is especially helpful when you have lots of work experience but also want to show off your skills and accomplishments.

Why do hiring managers like the hybrid format?

Hiring managers appreciate the hybrid resume format for several reasons:

• It strikes a balance – Recruiters can see your skills and your work experience.
• It focuses on key skills – Sometimes recruiters want to make sure you have the skills to do the job. This resume format tells them immediately.
• It shows career progression – The hybrid resume provides a clear overview of your career path.

Who should use the hybrid resume format?

Anyone can use the hybrid resume format to great advantage. It’s especially suited to job seekers who:

Have a diverse skill set

You might have the perfect skills for the job. But your work experience is a little weak. This format allows you to feature your skills while downplaying your work experience.

Want to emphasize achievements

The hybrid format allows you to showcase achievements as well as skills at the top of your resume.

Are changing careers

The hybrid is good if you are transitioning to a new field. It focuses more on your transferable skills and slightly less on your work history.

How to set up a hybrid resume

When creating a hybrid resume, follow this structure:

• Contact Information : Begin with your name, contact details, phone number, and email address. You can also include your professional website or LinkedIn profile (if applicable).
• Resume Summary: Try to distill your entire resume into a short, easy-to-read blurb. Summaries can help career changers who need a place to explain a shift in career trajectory.
• Skills Section : Use bullet points to list your skills and achievements. Include both hard skills and soft skills.
• Work Experience: List your jobs in reverse chronological order. Start with your most recent or current position. Include the company name, job title, and dates of employment. Also, include a brief description of your responsibilities and accomplishments for each role.
• Education : List your education as you would on a chronological resume. Include degrees earned, school names, and graduation dates. You may also want to list academic honors or certifications relevant to your field.

If you don’t want to build your hybrid resume from scratch, try Jobscan’s free resume templates . They’re easy to customize and each one is ATS-friendly.

Pros and cons of the hybrid resume format

• Can result in a longer resume – The hybrid format may result in a longer resume. This is due to the inclusion of both a skills section and a detailed work history. But this shouldn’t be a problem as long as your resume isn’t more than two pages.
• Requires more thought – It can be hard to achieve the right balance between skills and work history. It requires thoughtful consideration and planning.
• Highlights your skills – By showing your skills first, this format captures the attention of hiring managers who are looking for them.
• Showcases your career progression – This format includes a chronological work experience section. This gives employers a good sense of your professional background and experience.
• Adaptable – The hybrid resume is flexible and easy to customize for specific jobs.
• ATS-friendly – ATS should have no problem reading this type of resume format.

If you’re still not sure which format to use for your resume, follow this flowchart to help you decide based on your situation.

How to format your resume so an ATS can read it

It’s important to choose the right resume format. But it’s also important to optimize your resume layout and content for an ATS.

If your resume is not optimized for an ATS, it’s less likely to make it into the hands of a hiring manager. Even if you have relevant skills and experience.

Here are some tips for creating a resume that will get past the initial screening of an ATS.

• Use standard fonts – Stick to common fonts like Arial, Calibri, or Times New Roman. Avoid fancy or decorative fonts. The ATS may not recognize them.
• Keep it simple – Avoid excessive formattings, such as tables, images, or graphics, as they may confuse the ATS.
• Use simple headings – Use headings like “Work Experience,” “Education,” and “Skills”. The ATS can read these without a problem.
• Use plain text – Stick to basic formatting like bullet points and simple indentation. Avoid using headers or footers, text boxes, columns, or special characters.
• Use a font size that is easy to read – The recommended font size is 11-12 pt for regular text and 14-16 pt for section titles.
• Use the right margin – Make sure that the margins on all sides of your resume are 1 inch so that it doesn’t look too crowded.
• Include relevant keywords – Read the job description and pick out prominent keywords. Incorporate these keywords throughout your resume. This helps the ATS recognize your qualifications. It will then rank your resume higher in the search results.
• Use standard file formats – Save your resume as a .docx or .pdf file. These formats are widely compatible with most ATS systems.
• Avoid abbreviations and acronyms – Spell out acronyms and avoid excessive abbreviations. The ATS may not recognize uncommon abbreviations.
• Keep the file name simple – When saving your resume, use a simple file name. You could use the word “resume” for example. This makes it easier for the ATS and hiring managers to identify and organize your file.

Pro Tip : Use Jobscan’s free resume templates to start building your resume. All our templates are ATS-friendly and easy to customize.

5 tips for writing a resume that will get you interviews

Here are some additional tips that will help you create an effective resume:

Tailor each resume to the job you are applying for

Don’t make the mistake of sending out the exact same resume with every application. Yes, it’s easy. It’s also ineffective.

Instead, read the job description to find out which skills and qualifications are most important. Then try to include those skills on your resume.

When you use the same language on your resume that’s found in the job description, you increase your chances of getting an interview.

Highlight achievements as well as responsibilities

While it’s important to list your job responsibilities on your resume, you also want to highlight accomplishments .

Responsibilities are what you did. Accomplishments are how well you did it.

For example, if you increased sales or reduced costs, be sure to mention these accomplishments.

Use action verbs

Action verbs paint a clearer picture of your qualifications. They increase the overall impact of your resume.

Instead of simply stating that you were “responsible for” a certain task or project, explain how you took charge and made it happen.

For example, you could say that you “spearheaded a new initiative” or “coordinated a complex team effort.”

Use numbers

Try to use numbers whenever possible. Numbers show the true scope of your accomplishments to hiring managers.

Instead of saying that you “Created marketing campaigns” you could say that you “Created 10 successful marketing campaigns that generated a 20% increase in leads.”

Use active voice, not passive

Always try to use active voice instead of passive voice when writing your resume. Active voice is more direct, concise, and easier to read.

In active voice, the subject of the sentence is doing the verb. In passive voice, the subject is being acted upon by the verb.

If you’re not sure whether your resume is using active or passive voice, try running it through the Hemingway editor . It’s free and will tell you if you’re using passive voice.

Additional resume resources

Selecting the right resume format is the first step to creating an impactful resume. To learn more about how to create a resume that will stand out, check out these additional resources:

• How to Write a Resume That Recruiters Will Really Love – This step-by-step resume guide will teach you how to write a resume that stands out.
• How to Add Work Experience to Your Resume – Learn how to create a work experience section that will grab the attention of hiring managers.
• 8 Things You Need to Know About Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) – Here’s everything you need to know about ATS. What they are, how they work, and especially how you can “beat” them!
• How to Write a Strong Resume Skills Section – Here are the top resume skills employers are looking for. Learn how to list them on your resume.
• Hard Skills vs. Soft Skills – Learn the difference between hard and soft skills and why you need both on your resume.
• Free Professional Resume Templates – These ATS-friendly resume templates feature sleek, minimalist designs.

FAQs about resume formats

What does ats-friendly resume format mean.

An ATS-friendly resume format is one that can be read by Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS). Employers use these systems to manage and filter large volumes of resumes.

When you use an ATS-friendly format , it increases the chances that a hiring manager will find your resume.

Is a resume format the same as a resume template?

No, they are two different things.

Resume format refers to the structure and organization of the content in a resume. A resume template refers to a pre-designed layout you can use to create a resume.

Is there a separate student resume format?

There isn’t a specific “student resume format” per se. Students generally use the same resume formats as other job seekers. But they may emphasize different sections or information.

A student’s resume highlights coursework, internships, part-time jobs, extracurricular activities, and academic achievements.

What is the best resume format for 2023?

The best resume format for you depends on your specific circumstances. This includes your work experience, career goals, and the industry you’re targeting.

Having said that, we like the hybrid resume format .

Employers are looking for job candidates who have the right skills. And the hybrid resume features skills right at the top of the resume. Employers also want to see a work experience section on a resume. The hybrid has that as well.

This powerful combination of skills and experiences makes the hybrid resume our top choice for 2023 and beyond.

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Can the math solver help me improve my grades (yes).

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How is this app different from your tutoring service.

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Will it work on my phone?

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Can I submit a picture of my math problem?

Yes, simply tap or click the carmera icon next to the Solve button in the application then select the image or if you're on your phone open your camera to immediately take a picture of your math problem.

The application can interpret most handwritten or typed math problems.

Is it free to use?

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Which math subjects are covered?

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Can it Solve Calculus Math Problems?

Can it solve geometry math problems.

P.S. We're currently working to enable in app graphing to accompany solutions.

Can it solve Trigonometric Functions?

Can it solve simple equations math problems.

Yep! The AI LLM has been trained on a large array of mathematical problems and subjects including, but not limited to Basic Algebra, Advanced Algebra, Geometry, Trigonometry, Calculus, Advanced Calculus, Physics and much more.

Can it solve any math problems and equations?

How do i get math solutions.

Simply upload an image of your math problem or enter it and click Solve. Our AI math problem solving calculator will provide a step by step solution to the problem with the answer.

Can it solve word problems?

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How do you find the answers to math word problems?

Step by step solutions and answers to any word problem or equations can be found in the chat window indicated in blue text bubbles.

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• problem-solving

adjective as in analytic

Strongest matches

analytical , investigative

Weak matches

inquiring , rational , sound , systematic

adjective as in analytical

analytic , cogent , detailed , diagnostic , interpretive , investigative , penetrating , rational , scientific , systematic , thorough

conclusive , discrete , dissecting , explanatory , expository , inquiring , inquisitive , judicious , logical , organized , perceptive , perspicuous , precise , questioning , ratiocinative , reasonably , searching , solid , sound , studious , subtle , testing , valid

adjective as in analytic/analytical

cogent , conclusive , detailed , diagnostic , discrete , dissecting , explanatory , expository , inquiring , inquisitive , interpretive , investigative , judicious , logical , organized , penetrating , perceptive , perspicuous , precise , questioning , ratiocinative , rational , reasonable , scientific , searching , solid , sound , studious , subtle , systematic , testing , thorough , valid , well-grounded

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Example sentences.

“These are problem-solving products but that incorporate technology in a really subtle, unobtrusive way,” she says.

And it is a “problem-solving populism” that marries the twin impulses of populism and progressivism.

“We want a Republican Party that returns to problem-solving mode,” he said.

Problem-solving entails accepting realities, splitting differences, and moving forward.

It teaches female factory workers technical and life skills, such as literacy, communication and problem-solving.

Problem solving with class discussion is absolutely essential, and should occupy at least one third of the entire time.

In teaching by the problem-solving method Professor Lancelot 22 makes use of three types of problems.

Sequential Problem Solving is written for those with a whole brain thinking style.

Thus problem solving involves both the physical world and the interpersonal world.

Sequential Problem Solving begins with the mechanics of learning and the role of memorization in learning.

Number Line

• \mathrm{Lauren's\:age\:is\:half\:of\:Joe's\:age.\:Emma\:is\:four\:years\:older\:than\:Joe.\:The\:sum\:of\:Lauren,\:Emma,\:and\:Joe's\:age\:is\:54.\:How\:old\:is\:Joe?}
• \mathrm{Kira\:went\:for\:a\:drive\:in\:her\:new\:car.\:She\:drove\:for\:142.5\:miles\:at\:a\:speed\:of\:57\:mph.\:For\:how\:many\:hours\:did\:she\:drive?}
• \mathrm{The\:sum\:of\:two\:numbers\:is\:249\:.\:Twice\:the\:larger\:number\:plus\:three\:times\:the\:smaller\:number\:is\:591\:.\:Find\:the\:numbers.}
• \mathrm{If\:2\:tacos\:and\:3\:drinks\:cost\:12\:and\:3\:tacos\:and\:2\:drinks\:cost\:13\:how\:much\:does\:a\:taco\:cost?}
• \mathrm{You\:deposit\:3000\:in\:an\:account\:earning\:2\%\:interest\:compounded\:monthly.\:How\:much\:will\:you\:have\:in\:the\:account\:in\:15\:years?}
• How do you solve word problems?
• To solve word problems start by reading the problem carefully and understanding what it's asking. Try underlining or highlighting key information, such as numbers and key words that indicate what operation is needed to perform. Translate the problem into mathematical expressions or equations, and use the information and equations generated to solve for the answer.
• How do you identify word problems in math?
• Word problems in math can be identified by the use of language that describes a situation or scenario. Word problems often use words and phrases which indicate that performing calculations is needed to find a solution. Additionally, word problems will often include specific information such as numbers, measurements, and units that needed to be used to solve the problem.
• Is there a calculator that can solve word problems?
• Symbolab is the best calculator for solving a wide range of word problems, including age problems, distance problems, cost problems, investments problems, number problems, and percent problems.
• What is an age problem?
• An age problem is a type of word problem in math that involves calculating the age of one or more people at a specific point in time. These problems often use phrases such as 'x years ago,' 'in y years,' or 'y years later,' which indicate that the problem is related to time and age.

word-problems-calculator

• Middle School Math Solutions – Inequalities Calculator Next up in our Getting Started maths solutions series is help with another middle school algebra topic - solving...

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Unit 1: Algebra foundations

Unit 2: solving equations & inequalities, unit 3: working with units, unit 4: linear equations & graphs, unit 5: forms of linear equations, unit 6: systems of equations, unit 7: inequalities (systems & graphs), unit 8: functions, unit 9: sequences, unit 10: absolute value & piecewise functions, unit 11: exponents & radicals, unit 12: exponential growth & decay, unit 13: quadratics: multiplying & factoring, unit 14: quadratic functions & equations, unit 15: irrational numbers, unit 16: creativity in algebra.

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