How to Write Resume Bullets That Get Read Without Exaggerating

Resumes are usually skimmed, not read word for word. That means your bullets have to work in a few seconds. Most weak bullets share the same problems: they start with filler, they describe a duty instead of an action, and they bury the useful part at the end.

The pattern

A good bullet usually has three parts:

• An action verb that says what you did.
• What you worked on, specific enough to picture.
• The result or scope, if you actually know it.

Before and after

These are illustrative examples. Only use a rewrite if every detail in it is true for you.

In both rows, the "after" adds no new facts. It only removes filler and puts the verb first.

Cut these phrases

• "Responsible for"
• "Duties included"
• "Worked on"
• "Helped with," when you did more than help

About numbers

Numbers make bullets stronger, but only real ones. If you know the figure, include it. If you don't, describe scope instead: a team of four, a weekly report, a class of thirty. Don't estimate a number you can't defend, because an interviewer may ask where it came from.

Put your best bullet first

Within each role, the first bullet gets the most attention. Lead with the one most relevant to the job you're applying for, even if it isn't the most recent task.

Keep each bullet to one idea

If a bullet needs three lines, split it or cut it. One to two lines is easier to scan.

A quick check before you send

• Does each bullet start with a verb?
• Could you explain every claim in an interview?
• Is there a bullet you'd cut if you had to remove one?