JobalyticsJobalyticsLoading...
Free Format Tool

Resume Format CheckerIs Your Resume ATS-Friendly?

Bad formatting can get your resume rejected—even with perfect qualifications. Check if your resume format is ATS-compatible and fix issues before you apply.

✓ 100% Free   ✓ No Sign-up   ✓ Instant Results

Why It Matters

Why Resume Format Matters for ATS

Wrong format = ATS can't read your resume
Fancy design = missing or scrambled content
Clean format = 100% of content gets parsed

ATS systems read text, not designs.

That creative resume template might look great to you, but ATS software sees it as garbled text. Tables, graphics, and fancy layouts cause parsing errors that tank your chances.

In 2026, over 98% of Fortune 500 companies use ATS. If your resume format isn't compatible, it gets filtered out before a human ever sees it.

Check your format first. Then worry about content.

Format Analysis

What We Check

📄

File Type

PDF, DOCX
Images, JPG, PNG
🔤

Fonts

Arial, Calibri, Times
Creative, unusual fonts
📏

Layout

Single column, clean
Multi-column, tables
🖼️

Graphics

None or minimal
Images, icons, charts
📑

Headers/Footers

Contact info in body
Important info in headers
📋

Section Headings

Standard headings
Creative headings
Best Practices

ATS-Friendly Resume Format Checklist

Do This

  • Use PDF or DOCX format
  • Stick to standard fonts (10-12pt)
  • Use single-column layout
  • Use standard section headings (Experience, Education, Skills)
  • Keep margins between 0.5-1 inch
  • Use bullet points for lists
  • Put contact info in document body
  • Save with clear filename (FirstName-LastName-Resume.pdf)

Avoid This

  • Don't use image-based resume templates
  • Don't use tables for layout
  • Don't add photos or graphics
  • Don't use text boxes
  • Don't put key info in headers/footers
  • Don't use multi-column layouts
  • Don't use unusual fonts or colors
  • Don't submit as JPG, PNG, or HTML

PDF vs DOCX: Which Should You Use?

📄

PDF

  • Preserves formatting exactly
  • Looks same on all devices
  • Works with most modern ATS
  • Best for creative fields

Best for: Most applications, unless DOCX is specified

📝

DOCX

  • 100% ATS compatible
  • Easy for recruiters to edit
  • Safer for older ATS systems
  • Required by some companies

Best for: When in doubt, or if job posting requires it

Pro tip: Always check the job posting for preferred file format. When not specified, PDF is generally the safer choice for modern ATS systems.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a resume format checker?

A tool that analyzes your resume file to ensure it's ATS-compatible. It checks file type, fonts, layout, and identifies formatting issues that could cause ATS errors.

What's the best resume format for ATS?

Use a clean, single-column layout with standard fonts. Save as PDF or DOCX. Avoid tables, graphics, headers/footers, and text boxes.

Should I use PDF or DOCX?

Both work for most modern ATS. PDF preserves formatting perfectly. DOCX is safer for older systems. Check the job posting for requirements.

Can a creative resume beat ATS?

Usually no. Creative templates with graphics, tables, and unusual layouts often fail ATS parsing. Save creativity for your portfolio.

How do I make my resume ATS-friendly?

Use standard fonts (Arial, Calibri), single-column layout, standard headings (Experience, Skills, Education), and save as PDF or DOCX. Avoid images and tables.

Check Your Resume Format Now

Don't let bad formatting kill your job applications. Check your resume format in seconds—100% free.