Start with a clear structure
Reverse-chronological experience still works best for most professional roles. Put your recent roles first, keep dates readable, and avoid burying requirements in decorative sidebars.
Use sections that parsers recognize
- Contact information at the top, written as real text.
- Summary, Skills, Professional Experience, Projects, Education, and Certifications when relevant.
- Bullets under each role that describe actions, tools, and outcomes.
- Simple links for GitHub, LinkedIn, portfolio, or personal website.
PDF or DOCX?
Many modern systems handle both. PDF is usually best when you want the layout preserved. DOCX can be useful when an employer explicitly requests it. The important part is that the exported file contains selectable text, not a screenshot of the resume.
Design still matters
ATS-safe does not mean plain. You can use spacing, type, color, and hierarchy as long as the resume still exports to readable text and keeps sections in the intended order.