Job search & applications

ATS-friendly CV format: a simple guide with a checklist

6 min read

An ATS-friendly CV is mostly a clearly formatted CV. The goal is simple: make sure the software reads your text in the right order and puts it in the right fields. Use this checklist.

Layout

• One column. Avoid tables, text boxes and side panels, which can scramble the reading order.
• Normal margins and a standard font such as Calibri, Arial or Times New Roman, at 10 to 12 points.
• Put your name and contact details in the main body, not only in the header or footer.

Headings and content

• Use familiar headings: Professional Summary, Key Skills, Work Experience, Education.
• For each job, write the title, company and dates on one line, then bullet points.
• Start bullets with action verbs and add a number where you honestly can.
• Spell out an abbreviation once, for example "Applicant Tracking System (ATS)".

The file

• Send a Word (.docx) file or a PDF that contains real text. A scanned or image-only PDF can't be read.
• Name it clearly, such as "Jane-Doe-CV.docx".
• Follow the employer's instructions if they ask for a specific format.

What to skip

Skip photos, skill-level charts, icons and hidden text. They add nothing for a parser and can cause errors, and hidden keywords can get an application dismissed.

If you want a head start, the builder below creates a plain, single-column CV in three templates.

Build an ATS-friendly CV and cover letter from your CV and the job ad, edit the free preview, and pay only to download. Add a video introduction when you are ready.