Terminal punctuation, such as periods, is generally considered optional for resume bullet points. Whether or not to use them often depends on the consistency of application throughout the entire document and the specific style guide being followed, if any. For example, if full sentences are used in bullet points, periods are typically included. Conversely, if short, impactful phrases are utilized, periods are often omitted. Consider the following: “Managed a team of five sales representatives, exceeding quarterly goals by 15%.” versus “Exceeded quarterly sales goals by 15%.” The first example uses a full sentence and thus includes a period; the second is a concise phrase and omits the period.
Maintaining consistency in punctuation contributes to a polished and professional appearance. A consistent approach improves readability and allows the reader to focus on the content rather than be distracted by variations in style. Historically, more formal resumes tended to include periods after each bullet point. However, modern resume writing often favors a cleaner, less cluttered look, often omitting terminal punctuation in favor of concise phrasing. This evolution reflects a shift towards emphasizing keywords and impactful statements over strict adherence to traditional grammatical rules.
