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Resume structure
Read time3 min readUpdatedDecember 2025

The page-2 gate

Page 2 is not forbidden. It is earned by clarity on page 1.

The Gate

Page 1 Earns Page 2

TheLadders reports that attention on page 2 depends on how compelling page 1 is.1

Source
TheLadders Eye-Tracking Study

Signal density vs scan cost

If the first page is dense but clear, the reader continues. If it is dense and noisy, they do not.1

The attention gate
1

Page one

First scan happens here

Gate

2

Page two

Only read if page 1 earns it

Rule: Page 2 is earned, not given. If page 1 doesn't hook them, page 2 won't be read.

Fig. 1 — The GateWhy page 2 depends entirely on page 1

When two pages make sense

Recruiter lens: two pages is acceptable when the first page is clear and the second page continues a coherent signal.2

Signal > Length

Clear structure beats arbitrary page limits.

Noisy pages fail

Dense, cluttered layouts raise scan cost and reduce attention.

How to earn page 2

Recruiter lens: page 2 is earned by strong signal density on page 1. The reader needs proof quickly.1

  • •Lead with your strongest, most relevant outcomes.
  • •Use tight headers to anchor scan paths.
  • •Cut duplication before adding new sections.

What to cut from page 1

Recruiter lens: the gate fails when page 1 is crowded with low-signal content.

  • •Generic summaries and filler sentences.
  • •Redundant bullets that repeat the same outcome.
  • •Long lists of tools without evidence of impact.

Definition: page-1 gate

The page-1 gate is the idea that page 2 is only read if page 1 proves the resume is worth more time.1

Limitations

  • •Some roles require lists of publications, patents, or certifications.
  • •Executive or academic resumes can legitimately run longer.

FAQ

Is page 2 a red flag?

Not if page 1 is clear and page 2 adds relevant evidence. The first page still decides whether the second is read.

How should I decide what goes on page 1?

Put your strongest, most relevant evidence on page 1. Make it easy to scan in seconds.

Does this apply to technical resumes?

Yes. Technical readers still scan quickly. Structure matters as much as content.

How RIYP uses this

01

Page-1 focus

We prioritize the first page because it governs everything that follows.

02

Density warnings

We flag crowded sections that increase scan cost without adding signal.

Related Research

Resume Length: What Research SaysStructureHow Recruiters ReadEye-trackingHow People ScanBehavior

Sources

  1. TheLadders Eye-Tracking Study (2018 Update) - TheLadders (2018).
  2. TheLadders Eye-Tracking Study - TheLadders (2012).

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