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The layout that ATS 'reads': ideal resume formatting for automatic systems
Discover the essential formatting considerations to ensure your resume is correctly interpreted by ATS systems.
ATS (Applicant Tracking System) is a system that 'reads and filters' resumes before they reach the recruiter. Having keywords is not enough: if the layout is bad, the system may 'not be able to read'. This article shows the formatting considerations to ensure that the resume is correctly interpreted.
Use a simple and linear template
Avoid layouts with two columns or graphic division; many ATS 'break' when reading columns. Use simple markers (bullets), standard headings ('Experience', 'Education', 'Skills'). Avoid headers and footers that contain important information, as the ATS may not read them.
Faça:
- ✓ Use single-column layout
- ✓ Simple bullets
- ✓ Standard and recognizable headings
Não faça:
- ✗ Multi-column layouts
- ✗ Complex tables
- ✗ Text boxes
- ✗ Important information in header/footer
Simple and readable font
Safe font types: Arial, Calibri, Times New Roman, Verdana. Size between 10–12 pt for body text. Use bold or italic in moderation to highlight titles or positions, but without excess.
- Fonts: Arial, Calibri, Times New Roman, Verdana
- Size: 10-12pt
- Use bold only for headings and positions
- Avoid decorative or highly stylized fonts
Well-identified sections with standard headings
Use headings like 'Professional Summary', 'Professional Experience', 'Education', 'Skills'. The ATS recognizes these patterns, so avoid overly creative or unrecognizable terms. Leave white space between sections for readability.
Dates and consistent formatting
For each experience, include month and year (for example: '01/2022 – 12/2023' or 'Jan 2022 – Dec 2023'). Use consistent formats throughout the resume. Place dates in the same position (e.g., right-aligned) to facilitate reading.
Avoid 'non-text' elements
No graphics, images, logos, icons, infographics, progress bars, etc. Avoid columns, text boxes, cells, geometric shapes. Save the file in a format that the job posting allows (Word .doc/.docx is safe; PDF may work if simple).
Let Score CV verify your formatting
Even with the best intentions, it's easy to miss formatting issues that break ATS parsing. Score CV helps by:
Conclusion
A simple, ATS-friendly layout is essential for getting past automated filters. While following formatting best practices is important, the only way to know if YOUR resume is actually ATS-compatible is to test it. Score CV analyzes your resume's formatting AND content against specific job postings, ensuring both humans and machines can properly read your qualifications. Don't let poor formatting ruin your chances—use Score CV to verify your resume is optimized for each job you apply to.