How to Write an ATS-Friendly Resume in 2026
Everything you need to know to get past the bots and get hired.
Applying for jobs online feels like sending your resume into a black hole. The culprit? **Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS)**. These software bots filter out 75% of candidates before a human recruiter ever opens the file. Here is how to beat them.
1. Keep the Formatting Simple
ATS parsers are easily confused by complex layouts. To ensure your resume is readable:
- Avoid columns: Use a single-column layout. Bots often read straight across, mixing up text from different columns.
- No graphics or icons: These look nice to humans but cause errors for parsers.
- Standard fonts: Stick to Arial, Calibri, Roboto, or Times New Roman.
2. Use Standard Headings
Don't get creative with section titles. The ATS looks for specific markers to categorize your info.
- Use "Experience" instead of "Professional Journey".
- Use "Education" instead of "Academic Background".
- Use "Skills" instead of "Core Competencies".
3. Keywords are King
The ATS scans your resume for keywords from the job description. If the job asks for "Project Management" and "React.js", your resume must contain those exact terms.
💡 Pro Tip:
Don't "keyword stuff" by hiding white text. Recruiters will see it when they highlight the text, and you will be blacklisted. Instead, weave keywords naturally into your bullet points.
4. File Format Matters
Always upload a Word (.docx) or PDF file. While PDF is best for preserving formatting, some older ATS systems struggle with them. .docx is the safest bet for maximum compatibility.
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