ATS Resume Formatting Checklist
Use this quick checklist to ensure your resume won’t get tripped up by an ATS.
- Single‑column layout with standard margins
- Section headings: Experience, Skills, Education
- Consistent date format (e.g., Jan 2023 – Present)
- Plain text for content (no images for core text)
- Avoid tables for main sections; use bullet lists
- Readable fonts (Arial, Calibri, Times, etc.)
- Save as PDF and verify layout
FAQ
Do I need a special font for ATS?
No. Use standard, readable fonts like Arial, Calibri, Times, or Georgia—ATS parses them reliably.
Can I use tables or images?
Avoid tables for core content and do not embed text in images; ATS may not parse them correctly.
Single or two columns?
Single‑column is safest for parsing, though simple two‑column layouts can work if content flows logically.