What Font Size Should a CV Be? Expert Tips and Services
what font size should a CV be
When crafting your CV, presentation matters just as much as content. A well-written document can lose its effectiveness if it's hard to read or poorly formatted. One key design decision that often goes overlooked is font size. If you've ever wondered, what font size should a CV be, you're not alone. Many job seekers consult a professional CV writer to ensure every element, including layout, supports their candidacy.
Why Font Size Matters on a CV
Font size influences how easily your CV can be read, both by humans and Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS). Too small, and it becomes difficult to scan. Too large, and you risk looking unprofessional or taking up unnecessary space. An optimal font size ensures your achievements are accessible and your application is taken seriously.
What Font Size Should a CV Be?
In most cases, 10 to 12 points is the recommended font size for CV body text:
- 10 pt: Best for experienced professionals who need to include more information
- 11 pt: A safe and professional middle ground for most applicants
- 12 pt: Great for those with less content or for readability on digital screens
For headings, you can go slightly larger—around 14 to 16 points—ensuring they stand out while maintaining a clean, balanced layout.
Other Typography Best Practices
In addition to font size, a professional CV writer also pays attention to:
- Font style: Stick to clean, modern fonts like Arial, Calibri, or Helvetica
- Line spacing: Use 1.15 to 1.5 spacing for better readability
- Margins: Keep margins at about 1 inch to avoid clutter
- Consistency: Maintain uniform styling for headers, bullet points, and spacing
Every visual detail contributes to the CV’s overall professionalism and impact.
How a Professional CV Writer Can Help
Design and formatting are part of a professional CV writer’s toolkit. These experts understand how to:
- Balance aesthetics with ATS-friendly formatting
- Adjust font size to suit content volume without overcrowding
- Emphasise key achievements with layout and design
- Ensure visual hierarchy so your most important details stand out
Their experience ensures your CV doesn’t just read well—it looks the part too.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Job seekers frequently make font-related errors, such as:
- Using fonts that are too small (9 pt or less)
- Inconsistent font sizes between sections
- Overuse of bold or italics that creates visual noise
- Selecting decorative fonts that reduce legibility
A professional CV writer can help you avoid these missteps and produce a polished, reader-friendly CV.
Aligning Font Size with Your Career Goals
Your CV's font size should support your message and career objectives. For example:
- A junior candidate may benefit from larger text that fills space effectively
- A senior professional might use slightly smaller fonts to include extensive experience
- An academic CV might require more flexibility in formatting due to publications and research details
Final Thoughts: Clarity is Key
Choosing the right font size is about striking a balance—readability, style, and professional tone all come into play. By working with a professional CV writer, you can ensure that every visual aspect of your document supports your goals and presents you in the best possible light.
If you're unsure what font size should a CV be, don’t guess—get expert help and create a CV that delivers on both content and presentation.
