Resume Writing Tips: How To Create A Text File

Do you know how to create a text file? If you need help with the task, here’s a step by step recipe for success.

Ever had problems with your resumes formatting? Generally this happens when you copy and paste your resume into a job search site. Or even when adding your resume to the body of an e-mail. Your bullets probably move, right? The formatting is off and your document is a mess. You are not alone.

For most job seekers and career advancers, the formatting issue comes at one point or another. There’s a great work around. Simply create a text file of your Word resume and use that rather than the Word doc, as the formatting will stay in place for you. It’s really a very simple process, so simple that if you’re having your resume written by a professional resume writing firm, it should come with your package at no additional charge.

Start by creating and saving your resume in Word format. Then, create your text version. Do that by staying in Word and saving your resume again as a text file.

• In the save as type box, select plain text.
• Save your text document.
• Note that the file now has a txt extension.

Next open Notepad, and then open your text file. You’ll find Notepad in the all programs/ accessories area on your computer.

Align everything in the document to the left. You will have to make some slight modifications and check for character and formatting issues.

• Watch out for any special characters, question marks, spacing issues and other anomalies.
• If your bullets have disappeared add asterisks or other appropriate characters instead.
• Make the resume as visually appealing as you can.
• Once you’re done revising your resume, save your text file.

You can now use the text file in the body of e-mails. And, for resumes going to job search sites you can simply copy and paste your text as directed.

If you are planning to send a cover letter, bio, or other documents that are part of your resumes package, you might want to create a text version. Of course if it makes sense, use the same header that you used for your resume. Note that if you are asked to send in other materials via text, you really would want to develop all those materials using the same header for consistency.

Send a hard copy of your documents in Word via snail mail as an added touch. Be sure to use good quality paper as it’s an added touch that you might not want to overlook.

Patricia Erickson is a seasoned career management expert and certified professional resume writer with over twelve years of executive recruiting and coaching experience. She works with career changers and job seekers to design strategies that transform careers. Patricia has been instrumental in navigating clients toward their true career aspirations as well as finding purpose and personal fulfillment.


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