Resume and Cover Letter | 2026 Update with
complete solutions.
1. Which resume format is most appropriate for this
candidate?
a) Chronological
b) Functional
c) Combination (hybrid)
d) Video resume
Answer: c) Combination (hybrid)
Rationale: A combination resume highlights skills and relevant
clinical experiences first, followed by work history. It minimizes lack
of paid nursing experience while showcasing transferable skills.
2. The recommended length for a new graduate’s resume in
2026 is:
a) Exactly one page
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b) Two pages
c) As long as needed
d) One page for screen, two for print
Answer: a) Exactly one page
Rationale: Recruiters spend 6–8 seconds on initial review. New
graduates with <10 years experience should keep to one page.
Senior roles may use two pages.
3. Which section should appear FIRST on a resume for a 2026
job search?
a) Objective statement
b) Contact information
c) Summary of qualifications
d) Work experience
Answer: b) Contact information
Rationale: Name, phone, email, LinkedIn URL, and location
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(city/state) are always first. Objective statements are outdated; use
a professional summary instead.
4. A recruiter uses an Applicant Tracking System (ATS). Which
file format is most compatible?
a) PDF
b) .docx (Microsoft Word)
c) .jpg
d) .txt
Answer: b) .docx
Rationale: While PDFs are fine for human reading, older ATS may
parse .docx more accurately. Check job posting: if unclear, use
.docx. Save as “FirstName_LastName_Resume.docx”.
5. The nurse lists “CPR certified” under certifications. Which is
the correct way to write the expiration?
a) “CPR (2026)”
b) “CPR – current”
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c) “BLS for Healthcare Providers (AHA), expires 12/2027”
d) “CPR valid”
Answer: c) Full details with expiration
Rationale: Employers verify certifications. Include issuing body
(AHA, Red Cross) and expiration date. Avoid vague terms like
“current”.
6. Which personal information should NEVER be included on a
modern resume?
a) LinkedIn profile URL
b) Professional email address
c) Photo, age, marital status, or social security number
d) City and state of residence
Answer: c) Photo, age, marital status, SSN
Rationale: In the US, including a photo or age can lead to
discrimination claims. Never include SSN, marital status, religion,
or political affiliation.