A typical résumé is structured to effectively present a candidate's qualifications and experiences to potential employers. It generally includes several key sections: 'Contact Information', which provides the applicant's details; 'Objective', outlining career goals; 'Education', detailing academic background; 'Experience', listing work history; 'Skills', highlighting relevant abilities; 'Certifications', if applicable; and 'References', providing contacts for recommendations. The most common number of sections in a comprehensive résumé is seven, as it allows for a thorough presentation of the candidate's qualifications.