Format determines whether an ATS can read your resume at all. The best ATS resume format is boring by design: clear headings, linear reading order, standard fonts, and no critical data trapped in images or columns.
This guide covers file types, section order, typography, and layout patterns that work for both parsers and recruiters reviewing PDFs on screen or in print.
What is an ATS-friendly resume format?
An ATS-friendly resume format uses standard section headings, linear text order, common fonts, and plain-text contact details so automated parsers can extract your experience without layout errors.
Projects, references, and extras
Place projects or publications below experience unless you are a student with limited work history. Keep references off the resume — “available upon request” is unnecessary.
Fonts, margins, and length
Use widely available fonts: Arial, Calibri, Helvetica, Georgia, or Times New Roman at 10–12 pt body size. Margins between 0.5 and 1 inch preserve readability. One page for early career; two pages maximum for most experienced applicants unless academia or federal formats require more.
Layouts to avoid
Skip text in header/footer only, skill graphs, icons instead of words, multiple unreadable columns, and Canva-style graphics that export as flat images. Sidebar contact blocks sometimes parse as random text order — test before submitting.
Recommended section order
- Contact information — Name, phone, email, city/state, LinkedIn URL as plain text.
- Professional summary — Three to four lines naming role, experience, and top qualification.
- Skills — Grouped or comma-separated keywords parsers can index quickly.
- Professional experience — Reverse chronological roles with titles, dates, and achievement bullets.
- Education — Degree, institution, graduation year.
- Certifications (optional) — Spell credentials exactly as employers list them in postings.
Quick tips
Export from the source editor
Generate PDF from Word or Google Docs rather than screenshotting a design tool.
Use bullet characters parsers recognize
Standard round bullets or hyphens parse more reliably than custom symbols.
See how your resume scores
Upload a PDF or Word file for a free compatibility check and practical fixes.
Frequently asked questions
PDF or Word for ATS?
Follow employer instructions. PDF is most common; Word helps some legacy parsers.
Are two-column templates OK?
Only if text still copies in logical order. When in doubt, use single column.