How To Write Resume In Present Tense . Resumes are primarily written in past or present tense. If you’re talking about past positions you’ve held over the years, use past tense verbs to describe events that have already happened. Sample Retail Resume and Writing Tips from www.thebalancecareers.com Present tense is anything that's happening now. You'd use present tense in the summary paragraph at the top and in the bullets you use to describe your current job. But whatever you do, the key is to be consistent throughout the entire resume.