RunnieResume Blog
ATS-Safe Resume Formatting Checklist
• 5 min read
You can keep your design polished without breaking applicant tracking systems. Use this checklist before you upload.
Stay single column
Two columns, text boxes, or tables often scramble ordering. Stick to a single column with clear section headers.
Use simple, searchable text
- Standard fonts (Inter, Arial, Calibri, Roboto) at 10–12pt.
- No images, icons, or embedded charts for key details.
- Keep dates in a consistent format: “Jan 2023 – Oct 2024”.
Keep headings predictable
Use common labels like Experience, Education, Skills, Projects. Avoid creative headers that hide keywords.
Balance keywords with clarity
Mirror the job description phrasing in context: “Python, TypeScript, React, Supabase” inside bullets, not just a skills block.
Export safely
Prefer PDF for consistency unless an employer requests DOCX. Name the file “Firstname-Lastname-Resume.pdf” to avoid spaces or special characters.
Once your base format is clean, save it in RunnieResume so every tailored version stays ATS-safe by default.