Most resumes are rejected before a recruiter ever sees them. The reason is simple: Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS).

This checklist helps you review your resume step by step so it can be properly read by ATS software and recruiters.

ATS Resume Format Checklist

  • Reverse-chronological format
  • Single-column layout
  • No tables or text boxes
  • No icons, images, or graphics
  • Standard fonts (Arial, Calibri, Times New Roman)
  • Font size between 10.5 and 12.5
  • Saved as DOCX or PDF (if allowed)
Avoid Canva or heavily designed resume templates. Many ATS systems cannot read them correctly.

Resume Header Checklist

  • Full name clearly visible
  • Professional email address
  • Phone number included
  • City and country listed
  • LinkedIn profile link added

Professional Summary Checklist

  • 2–4 lines only
  • Target job title included
  • Key skills or experience mentioned
  • No vague or generic phrases

Work Experience Checklist

  • Clear job titles and dates
  • Bullet points used (not paragraphs)
  • Each bullet starts with an action verb
  • Keywords match job description
  • Results and tools mentioned

Skills Section Checklist

  • Simple text list
  • Skills match job description wording
  • No charts, bars, or icons

Education & Certifications Checklist

  • Degree name clearly written
  • Institution name included
  • Certifications listed separately

Final ATS Review

  • No images, logos, or photos
  • No unusual symbols or characters
  • Consistent spacing and formatting
  • Professional file name
  • Spelling and grammar checked
Progress: 0 / 0 completed

If your resume remains readable when copied into a plain text editor, it is likely ATS friendly.

Download resume writing checklist pdf

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