Complete ATS Resume Guide

Everything you need to know about creating an ATS-friendly resume that gets past applicant tracking systems and into the hands of hiring managers.

What is an ATS?

An Applicant Tracking System (ATS) is software used by employers to collect, sort, scan, and rank job applications. Over 90% of large companies and many small businesses use ATS to screen resumes before a human ever sees them.

If your resume isn't ATS-friendly, it might be automatically rejected—even if you're a perfect fit for the job. That's why optimizing your resume for ATS is critical in today's job market.

Why ATS Compatibility Matters

❌ ATS-Unfriendly Resume

  • • Automatically rejected by software
  • • Never reaches hiring manager
  • • Keywords not recognized
  • • Formatting causes parsing errors

✓ ATS-Friendly Resume

  • • Passes automated screening
  • • Reaches human recruiters
  • • Keywords properly indexed
  • • Content accurately parsed

Common ATS Mistakes to Avoid

1. Complex Formatting

Tables, text boxes, columns, and graphics confuse ATS parsers. Stick to simple, single-column layouts.

2. Fancy Fonts

Decorative or unusual fonts may not be readable by ATS. Use standard fonts like Arial, Calibri, or Times New Roman.

3. Missing Keywords

ATS systems scan for keywords from the job description. If your resume lacks relevant keywords, it won't rank well.

4. Inconsistent Formatting

Mixed date formats, inconsistent spacing, and varying styles make it harder for ATS to parse your information correctly.

5. Non-Standard Section Headings

Use standard headings like "Work Experience" or "Education" instead of creative alternatives like "My Journey" or "What I've Done."

ATS-Friendly Best Practices

✓ Use Standard Section Headers

Stick to: Work Experience, Education, Skills, Certifications, Summary

✓ Include Keywords from Job Description

Mirror the language used in the job posting, including specific skills, qualifications, and terminology.

✓ Use Simple Bullet Points

Standard bullet points (•) are safest. Avoid special characters or symbols.

✓ Save as .docx or PDF

Most ATS systems handle .docx and PDF well. Avoid image-based PDFs.

✓ Put Contact Info at Top

Name, phone, email, and location should be easy to find at the top of page one.

Ready to Test Your Resume?

Use our free ATS checker to see how your resume performs

Check My Resume