7 ATS Resume Tips That Actually Work in 2026

What Is an ATS and Why Should You Care in 2026?

If you’re wondering why your resume never gets callbacks, even when you feel qualified, the ATS is likely the culprit. An Applicant Tracking System (ATS) is software employers use to filter job applications automatically. Instead of reading every resume manually, these systems scan and score submitted resumes based on keywords, formatting, and relevancy.

In 2026, ATS algorithms have become more advanced with natural language processing (NLP) and AI-based capabilities. Yet, the fundamentals remain: your resume must be structured, clear, and keyword-optimized to pass these electronic gatekeepers. Overlooking ATS compatibility means losing out on interview opportunities before your application even reaches a recruiter.

For a deep dive into resume structure and broader career guidance, we also recommend checking out our comprehensive pillar resource on crafting remarkable resumes and CVs at CV Owl.

1. Use a Clean, Simple Layout – Fancy Designs Fail ATS

One of the most common mistakes applicants make is submitting resumes laden with graphics, tables, or unusual fonts. While these might look impressive on a human reader’s screen, most ATS software can misinterpret or completely skip over content embedded in these elements. In 2026, despite AI improvements, the safest bet remains a clean, minimal layout.

Practical tips:

• Use standard fonts like Arial, Times New Roman, or Calibri at 10-12 pt size.
• Stick to plain bullet points, avoid symbols or emojis.
• Keep margins between 0.5 to 1 inch to avoid text being cut off.
• Avoid headers and footers because some ATS do not scan them.

In our experience, a tidy layout not only passes ATS parsing cleanly but also provides a positive first impression to recruiters scanning resumes quickly.

2. Customize Keywords Based on the Job Description

ATS systems heavily rely on keywords to assess relevance. Keywords aren’t just buzzwords — they reflect the core skills, qualifications, and industry jargon tied to a specific role. Blindly using generic keywords won’t cut it anymore.

How to Identify the Right Keywords

Start by carefully analyzing the job description. Highlight the technically specific skills, tools, certifications, and action verbs frequently mentioned. For instance, if the posting emphasizes “project management,” “Agile,” and “budget oversight,” these must appear in your resume if they match your experience.

Pro tip: Tools like jobscan.co can help you compare your resume against job listings and pinpoint keyword gaps. Though be sure to use these insights selectively—don’t keyword-stuff which looks unnatural.

Tailoring your resume keywords to each application might sound daunting, but it significantly increases your chances of getting your resume past the first ATS filter.

3. Use Standard Headings That ATS Recognize

ATS systems rely on standard section headings to parse your information logically. When you use unconventional headings, they might misread or ignore entire parts of your resume.

Recommended headings include:

• Professional Summary or Summary
• Work Experience or Professional Experience
• Education
• Skills
• Certifications or Licenses

For example, using quirky section titles like “My Journey So Far” or “Career Highlights” may confuse ATS parsing. Stick with clear, widely recognized labels that align with HR standards.

In our recruiting work, resumes with properly labeled sections consistently rank higher in ATS results, making this a simple but powerful strategy.

4. Prioritize Plain Text Over Graphics and Images

While it’s tempting to include logos, photos, or infographics to stand out, these elements often create parsing issues. ATS software primarily reads plain text, so any critical information trapped inside images or embedded objects won’t be detected.

Avoid:

• Photos of yourself
• Icons for skills or ratings
• Embedded charts or graphics

Instead, use straightforward text to describe your skills and achievements. If you want to showcase design skills, keep that portfolio or creative work in a separate, linked document or website, not in your ATS resume itself.

5. Include Both Acronyms and Full Forms of Terms

Many ATS programs scan resumes for exact phrase matches. A tricky nuance is when a job description uses an acronym while your resume only lists the full term, or vice versa. This mismatch can cause your resume to omit relevant keywords from the scanning process.

For example, if the job description requires “Search Engine Optimization (SEO),” and your resume only says “SEO,” you risk the ATS missing the full form. Likewise, writing just “Certified Public Accountant” without “CPA” can limit keyword hits.

What we recommend: Spell out terms once with the acronym in parentheses the first time you mention them. E.g., “Project Management Professional (PMP)” then simply use “PMP” later.

This approach covers technical filters without cluttering your resume.

6. Focus on Actionable, Quantifiable Achievements

While keywords get you past the ATS, recruiters want substance. Including clear, measurable achievements not only helps your resume stand out but also supports your keywords with context.

Think: instead of saying “Responsible for sales,” write “Increased sales revenue by 30% within six months by implementing targeted client outreach.” Numbers catch eyes and give ATS context clues about your impact.

We’ve seen resumes that marry ATS optimization with compelling achievements perform best — they pass the initial filter and then engage recruiters who see concrete value.

7. Submit Your Resume in the Right File Format

Many applicants underestimate the importance of file format when submitting resumes online. ATS software generally supports Word (.doc or .docx) and PDF files, but nuances matter.

Best practices in 2026:

• Unless the job posting specifies otherwise, submit your resume as a Word document — it’s still the safest for ATS parsing.
• If uploading PDF, make sure it’s text-based (no scanned image) and properly encoded to be searchable.
• Avoid formats like .txt or .rtf unless explicitly requested, as they may distort your layout.
• Keep file size reasonable to prevent upload errors.

Remember, some ATS might struggle with certain PDFs especially those with embedded fonts or complex layouts, so when in doubt, stick to a simple Word file.

Final Thoughts: Make Your Resume ATS-Friendly Without Losing the Human Touch

Creating an ATS-compliant resume in 2026 is about balance. You want to ensure your resume’s keywords, formatting, and structure align with automated filters — but ultimately, a recruiter will read it if you get past the system. That means your resume must still tell a clear, compelling story of your skills and achievements.

Applying these seven tips will significantly boost your chances of getting noticed by both machines and hiring managers. Remember, this isn’t a one-time task; continually refining your resume based on each job description and evolving ATS capabilities is key.

For further guidance, and to master the art of resume writing from basics to advanced strategies, our extensive resume resource at CV Owl is a must-visit. It’ll help you polish your application from start to finish — turning ATS challenges into interview opportunities.

Good luck in your job search, and may your optimized resume open doors to new career possibilities in 2026!