ATS Resume FAQ: Will Your Resume Pass the Bot?
Most mid-to-large companies use Applicant Tracking Systems to filter resumes before a human sees them. Here's exactly how to make yours pass.
What is an ATS (Applicant Tracking System)?
An ATS is software that automatically collects, sorts, and ranks job applications based on how well they match the job description. Resumes that don't match are filtered out before a recruiter ever reads them. Estimated 75% of large companies use one.
How does ATS rank resumes?
Most ATS systems score resumes by matching keywords from the job description to your resume. They also parse your resume into structured data (name, contact, experience, education, skills). Formatting errors can cause parsing failures that make you invisible.
What resume format is best for ATS?
Single-column, plain formatting. Use standard section headings: Work Experience (not 'Career History'), Education, Skills. Use standard bullet points. Avoid tables, columns, text boxes, headers/footers, and images — ATS often cannot parse these.
What fonts are ATS-safe?
Calibri, Arial, Helvetica, Times New Roman, or Georgia. Standard fonts parse cleanly. Avoid custom or decorative fonts.
Should I submit a PDF or Word document for ATS?
When given a choice, Word (.docx) parses more consistently across ATS systems. However, most modern ATS can read PDF. Check the job posting — if it requests one format, follow that.
How do I find the right keywords for my resume?
Read the job description carefully. Note repeated words and required skills. Mirror the exact language the employer uses (e.g. if they say 'project management', use 'project management', not 'managing projects'). Paste the job description into a keyword tool or use Templix AI's ATS Checker.
Can ATS read my resume if I use a table or columns?
Often not. Tables and multi-column layouts confuse most ATS parsers, causing your skills and experience to be read in the wrong order or skipped entirely. Always test with a single-column format.
How do I check if my resume is ATS-friendly?
Use Templix AI's free ATS Resume Checker — paste your resume and the job description, and get a compatibility score with specific suggestions for improvement.
Do ATS systems read cover letters?
Some do, some don't. Most ATS focus on the resume. However, include a cover letter if the posting requests one — a human will read it after you pass the ATS filter.
How long does ATS store my resume?
Most ATS retain applications for 1–2 years. Some companies re-surface candidates from their ATS database when new roles open — another reason to optimize your resume.
Free Templates & Tools
Related FAQ Topics
Resume FAQ: 15 Questions Every Job Seeker Asks
Answers to the 15 most common resume questions — format, length, ATS, skills section, gaps, and more. Free ATS-ready resume templates included.
Resume Format FAQ: Which Format Should You Use?
Which resume format is best for you — chronological, functional, or combination? 10 questions answered for every career stage.
Cover Letter FAQ: 12 Common Questions Answered
Does a cover letter matter in 2026? How long should it be? What to include? Answers to the 12 most common cover letter questions, plus free templates.