Readable by ATS and humans

ATS-Friendly Resume Format (What Actually Works in 2025)

ATS formatting is mostly about clean parsing — but recruiters still scan your resume. Use a format that both systems and humans can read fast.

Scan my resume ATS checker page

The safe formatting checklist

Layout: single column, clear section headings, consistent spacing.
Headings: Experience, Education, Skills, Projects, Certifications.
Fonts: use common fonts (or embed) and keep sizes consistent (10–12pt body).
Dates/titles: same format everywhere; avoid creative timelines.
Links: include LinkedIn/GitHub as plain URLs. Avoid clickable-only icons.
Export: PDF is usually best, unless the application asks for DOCX.

Common ATS formatting mistakes

  • Two-column resumes where the ATS reads columns out of order.
  • Tables and text boxes (especially for Experience section).
  • Images for contact details or icons that hide URLs.
  • Non-standard headings (“Where I’ve Been” instead of “Experience”).

After formatting fixes, focus on scanability: improve your summary and quantify impact. Start with resume summary examples and quantifying achievements.