ATS-Friendly Resume Best Practices for 2026

If you're frustrated by sending countless applications without responses, your CV formatting might be the problem. Most resumes never reach human recruiters because they fail ATS screening.

Understanding the ATS Workflow

Here's what happens when you submit an application:

Step 1 - Posting: Companies post positions through their ATS platform

Step 2 - Extraction: The software pulls key information from your resume

Step 3 - Screening: Candidates are ranked based on keyword matches and qualifications Step 4 - Communication: Top candidates are contacted for interviews

Step 5 - Analytics: Hiring teams review candidate data and metrics

Your goal is to optimize for Step 2 and Step 3—making your resume easily parsable and keyword-rich.

Professional Formatting Guidelines

The simpler, the better. Here's what works:

Layout: Single-column format without tables or text boxes. Use standard margins and consistent spacing.

Bullets Over Paragraphs: When listing achievements or responsibilities, bullet points improve both ATS parsing and human readability.

File Type: PDF maintains formatting across devices, but Word documents are often safer for older ATS systems. When in doubt, submit both if possible.

Size Matters: Keep your resume to 1-2 pages maximum. Larger files may not upload properly.

The Keyword Strategy

Keywords are non-negotiable for ATS success. However, context matters. Don't just list keywords—integrate them meaningfully into your experience descriptions. Demonstrate how you've used those skills in real situations.

Focus on hard skills, certifications, software proficiencies, and specific qualifications mentioned in the job posting.

Qualification Alignment

ATS immediately filters candidates whose education doesn't match requirements. Be explicit about your degrees, institutions, and graduation dates. Include relevant certifications and licenses prominently.

Discover more proven strategies: Tips to Write an ATS-Friendly CV