Short answer
Reverse-chronological — most recent role first — is what recruiters and ATS expect, and it's the right default for anyone with a steady, relevant history. A functional format leads with skills and downplays dates, which can help career-changers or those with large gaps, but recruiters often distrust it. A hybrid opens with a short skills summary, then a chronological history — a safe middle ground.
CV Desk helps you apply this on your iPhone: it keeps the layout ATS-readable, exports a clean PDF with no watermark, and lets you tailor each version to the job. Always adapt to the specific role and country.
What to look for before choosing
- Reverse-chronological is the default.
- Functional only for big gaps/career change.
- Hybrid = skills summary + chronological.
- ATS handles chronological best.
- Match the format to your situation.
A practical decision process
- Assess your history and gaps.
- Pick chronological unless you have a reason not to.
- If changing careers, consider hybrid.
- Build it in CV Desk.
- Keep it ATS-readable.
Quick comparison
| Need | What to check | Why it matters |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing model | Check whether useful features require a subscription, a one-time unlock, or neither. | The cheapest app on day one may not be cheapest after a year. |
| Privacy model | Prefer on-device work when the content is sensitive. | Private documents, resumes, study data, and family content deserve careful handling. |
| Export / lock-in | Confirm file formats, sharing, backup, and deletion controls. | A good app should help you finish the task, not trap your work. |
Where CV Desk fits
CV Desk is a strong fit when you want a resume that follows best practice and still passes automated screening.
Pay onceNo watermarkPDF & Word
This page is an independent buying guide. App Store features and prices can change, so confirm details on the listing before purchase.