What is an ATS resume format?

An ATS resume format is a resume designed to be easily parsed by Applicant Tracking Systems, using standard fonts, simple formatting, and avoiding graphics or complex layouts.

How do I know if my resume is ATS-friendly?

Test by copy-pasting your resume into a plain text editor. If it reads correctly without formatting issues, it is likely ATS-friendly.

What file format is best for ATS?

DOCX (Microsoft Word) is the most ATS-compatible format. PDF can work if it is text-searchable, not image-based.

ATS Resume Format: How to Pass Applicant Tracking Systems

Over 98% of Fortune 500 companies use Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) to screen resumes. Learn how to format your resume to pass ATS screening and reach human recruiters.

ATS Resume Scanning Process Infographic - Showing how Applicant Tracking Systems extract keywords and structured data from resumes to rank job applications. — Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) use parsing technology to extract data from resumes.

What is an Applicant Tracking System (ATS)?

An Applicant Tracking System (ATS) is software used by employers to collect, sort, scan, and rank job applications. These systems help recruiters manage large volumes of resumes efficiently.

When you submit your resume online, it first goes through an ATS before a human ever sees it. If your resume isn't formatted correctly, the ATS may reject it automatically, even if you're perfectly qualified for the position.

Key Statistics:

• 98% of Fortune 500 companies use ATS
• 75% of resumes are rejected by ATS before reaching humans
• 50% of job applications are submitted through ATS

How ATS Scans Resumes

Understanding how ATS systems work helps you optimize your resume format:

1. Parsing

The ATS extracts text from your resume and converts it into a structured format. It identifies sections like work experience, education, and skills.

2. Keyword Matching

The system searches for keywords and phrases from the job description. Resumes with more matching keywords rank higher.

3. Scoring

The ATS assigns a score based on keyword matches, formatting, and other factors. Only high-scoring resumes are forwarded to recruiters.

4. Filtering

Resumes that don't meet minimum requirements or have formatting issues are automatically filtered out.

ATS-Friendly Formatting Rules

ATS-Friendly Resume Checklist - Key steps to ensure your resume passes Applicant Tracking Systems, including fonts, file formats, and keywords. — Use this checklist to verify your resume is optimized for ATS screening.

✓ Use Standard Section Headers

Use these exact section names:

• Work Experience (or Professional Experience)
• Education
• Skills
• Summary (or Professional Summary)

Avoid creative names like "Where I've Been" or "My Journey" - ATS won't recognize them.

✓ Use Simple, Clean Formatting

• Use standard fonts (Arial, Calibri, Times New Roman)
• Font size: 10-12 points
• Standard margins (1 inch)
• Simple bullet points
• No graphics, images, or logos

✓ Save in the Right Format

Best formats for ATS:

• .docx (Microsoft Word) - Most compatible
• .pdf - Good, but ensure it's text-searchable

Avoid: .pages, .rtf, or image formats (.jpg, .png)

✓ Include Keywords Strategically

Keywords from the job description should appear:

• In your professional summary
• In your skills section
• Throughout your work experience descriptions

Tip: Use the exact phrases from the job posting when possible.

Common ATS Mistakes to Avoid

Common Resume Mistakes for ATS - List of errors that cause resumes to be rejected by automated systems, like typos and graphics. — Avoiding these common mistakes will significantly increase your chances of passing the ATS filter.

✗ Using Graphics and Images

ATS cannot read images, logos, or graphics. These elements will cause parsing errors and may result in your resume being rejected.

✗ Using Tables or Columns

Tables and multi-column layouts confuse ATS systems. They may read information in the wrong order or skip sections entirely.

✗ Headers and Footers

Information in headers and footers is often ignored by ATS. Never put important contact information or content in these areas.

✗ Fancy Fonts and Formatting

Decorative fonts, special characters, and complex formatting can cause parsing errors. Stick to standard fonts and simple formatting.

✗ Missing Keywords

If your resume doesn't include keywords from the job description, the ATS will rank it lower, even if you're qualified.

How to Test Your Resume for ATS Compatibility

1. Use ATS Testing Tools

Test your resume with free ATS checker tools:

• Jobscan - Compare your resume to job descriptions
• Resume Worded - Get ATS score and feedback
• VMock - AI-powered resume review

2. Copy-Paste Test

Copy all text from your resume and paste it into a plain text editor. If formatting is lost or text appears jumbled, the ATS will have trouble reading it.