How does ATS optimization work?

Our AI analyzes job descriptions and ensures your resume contains the right keywords and format to pass Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS). 75% of resumes are rejected by ATS before a human sees them - we help you avoid that.

Can I import from LinkedIn?

Yes! Simply paste your LinkedIn profile URL or export your profile data, and we'll automatically populate your resume with your experience, skills, and education.

Start for free! We give you credits to try our AI features. One-time payment plans available starting at $9 - no subscription required. Your credits never expire.

What templates do you offer?

We offer 4 professional templates: Modern Professional, ATS Minimal, Executive (for senior roles), and Tech Startup (for modern tech companies). All templates are ATS-friendly.

Credits are used for AI-powered features like resume optimization, skill suggestions, and keyword matching. Each enhancement typically costs 1 credit. Earn free credits by unlocking achievements!

Resume Format Guide

Resume Format Guide: Choose the Best Layout for 2026

Understand the three main resume formats and when to use each one. Plus formatting rules for ATS compatibility.

Free to start • ATS-friendly templates

Compare Resume Formats

Each format serves a different purpose. Choose the one that best positions you for the role you want.

Reverse-Chronological

Best for: Most job seekers

Pros

Familiar to recruiters and ATS systems
Clearly shows career progression
Highlights recent, relevant experience
Easiest format to write and maintain

Cons

Exposes employment gaps prominently
De-emphasizes transferable skills
Less effective for career changers

When to Use

Use this format if you have a steady work history in the same field and your most recent roles are the most relevant to the target position.

Functional

Best for: Career changers, gaps

Pros

Highlights skills and competencies over timeline
Minimizes visible employment gaps
Useful for entry-level applicants
Groups experience by skill category

Cons

Many recruiters view it as a red flag
Some ATS systems struggle to parse it
Can appear as hiding something
Harder to verify work history

When to Use

Use this format when you are changing careers, have significant employment gaps, or are entering the workforce for the first time.

Hybrid / Combination

Best for: Experienced professionals

Pros

Balances skills showcase with work history
Works well for senior-level positions
ATS-friendly while being flexible
Highlights both competencies and timeline

Cons

Can become too long if not carefully edited
Requires more effort to write well
May repeat information across sections

When to Use

Use this format if you are an experienced professional with diverse skills, targeting a senior role, or wanting to highlight specific competencies alongside your work history.

ATS Formatting Rules

Follow these rules to ensure your resume passes through Applicant Tracking Systems without issues.

Use standard section headers: Summary, Experience, Education, Skills

Stick to common fonts: Arial, Calibri, Georgia, or Garamond

Keep font size between 10pt and 12pt for body text

Avoid tables, text boxes, columns, and embedded images

Do not use headers, footers, or footnotes for critical content

Use standard bullet points instead of custom symbols

Save as PDF unless the job posting specifies a different format

Keep margins between 0.5 and 1 inch on all sides

Explore More Resume Resources

How to Write a Resume

Complete step-by-step guide to writing a professional resume.

ATS Resume Checker

Check if your resume format passes ATS screening.

Cover Letter Guide

Write a cover letter that pairs perfectly with your resume.

Choose Your Format and Start Building

Our builder automatically formats your resume for ATS compatibility while keeping it visually professional. Try it free.

Free to start • No credit card required

Compare Resume Formats

Each format serves a different purpose. Choose the one that best positions you for the role you want.

Reverse-Chronological

Best for: Most job seekers

Pros

Familiar to recruiters and ATS systems
Clearly shows career progression
Highlights recent, relevant experience
Easiest format to write and maintain

Cons

Exposes employment gaps prominently
De-emphasizes transferable skills
Less effective for career changers

When to Use

Use this format if you have a steady work history in the same field and your most recent roles are the most relevant to the target position.

Functional

Best for: Career changers, gaps

Pros

Highlights skills and competencies over timeline
Minimizes visible employment gaps
Useful for entry-level applicants
Groups experience by skill category

Cons

Many recruiters view it as a red flag
Some ATS systems struggle to parse it
Can appear as hiding something
Harder to verify work history

When to Use

Use this format when you are changing careers, have significant employment gaps, or are entering the workforce for the first time.

Hybrid / Combination

Best for: Experienced professionals

Pros

Balances skills showcase with work history
Works well for senior-level positions
ATS-friendly while being flexible
Highlights both competencies and timeline

Cons

Can become too long if not carefully edited
Requires more effort to write well
May repeat information across sections

When to Use

Use this format if you are an experienced professional with diverse skills, targeting a senior role, or wanting to highlight specific competencies alongside your work history.

ATS Formatting Rules

Follow these rules to ensure your resume passes through Applicant Tracking Systems without issues.

Use standard section headers: Summary, Experience, Education, Skills

Stick to common fonts: Arial, Calibri, Georgia, or Garamond

Keep font size between 10pt and 12pt for body text

Avoid tables, text boxes, columns, and embedded images

Do not use headers, footers, or footnotes for critical content

Use standard bullet points instead of custom symbols

Save as PDF unless the job posting specifies a different format

Keep margins between 0.5 and 1 inch on all sides