The resonant nonlinear Schrödinger equation is studied in this work with the aid of two methods, namely the exponential rational function method and the modified exponential function method. This equation is used to describe the propagation of optical pulses in nonlinear optical fibers. Being concise and straightforward, these methods are used to build new exact analytical solutions of the model. The solutions obtained are not yet reported in the literature. The methods proposed can be extended to other types of nonlinear evolution equations in mathematical physics.