What Resume Format Works Best For ATS And Hiring Managers?
I get the same resume questions all the time:
Should I save my resume as a PDF or a .docx file?
Should it be one page, two pages, or three?
Is it okay to keep that fancy graphic showing your skill levels?
Let’s clear it all up using real hiring data and current recruiting practices.
The real question behind all of this is:
What resume format is best optimized for both Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) and human hiring managers?
Within seconds, your resume must:
Convince the system—and the recruiter—that you’re a strong candidate
Clearly connect your experience with the job description and required qualifications
Capture the hiring manager’s attention quickly
To achieve this, your resume must be:
ATS-friendly so software can read it correctly
Easy to scan so key information stands out
In a previous article, I shared a simple resume template designed to help candidates land six-figure roles, including remote jobs. This time, let’s focus on the technical details of resume formatting, including:
Font choice
Font size
Page length
Design elements
Should You Save Your Resume As a PDF or .DOCX?
According to a survey by Resume Genius of 1,000 U.S. hiring managers, simple text-based resumes still perform best in ATS systems.
When asked which formats work best, hiring managers reported:
Text-based PDFs (no images): 53%
Word documents (.docx): 43%
Both formats work well, but the key is keeping the file simple and text-based.
What Font Should You Use?
Choose fonts that are clean, modern, and easy to read. Good options include:
Aptos (a newer Microsoft Word font)
Calibri
Arial
Avoid decorative or unusual fonts that could make your resume harder to read.
What Is the Best Font Size?
Use font sizes that maintain readability:
Body text: 10–12 pt
Section headings: 14–16 pt
Headings like Professional Summary, Skills, or Education should stand out without overwhelming the page.
How Many Pages Should Your Resume Be?
Here’s a simple rule of thumb:
Entry-level candidates or recent graduates: 1 page
Mid-level to senior professionals: Up to 2 pages
Academic or specialized CVs: 3–5 pages if necessary
For most job seekers, two pages should be the maximum.
Resume Formatting Mistakes To Avoid
When designing your resume, avoid these common mistakes:
Multiple columns or tables – These can confuse ATS systems
Including your photo – Not recommended in the U.S. or U.K.
Listing your full address – This can raise privacy and discrimination concerns
Using heavy graphics, icons, or elaborate designs
You don’t need complex Canva templates or flashy visuals.
Simple formatting with clear headings and bullet points is usually the most effective.