How to Fix ATS Formatting Errors in Your Resume

What Causes ATS Formatting Errors?

Look, ATS software isn’t perfect – and it’s pretty literal when parsing resumes. When your resume uses complicated layouts, fancy fonts, or graphics, the system might misread or simply skip important info. This happens because ATS systems extract text linearly, often ignoring anything that isn't plain text or standard formatting.

But here’s the problem: many job seekers focus on visual appeal for humans first and forget about how machines "see" the resume. Fonts like Comic Sans or heavily styled tables may look cool but cause your resume to crash the ATS reading process. Even things like unusual bullet points or headers embedded inside graphics can make the ATS stumble.

Some key formatting pitfalls include:

Don’t assume your resume looks the same to both the system and a recruiter.

Spotting ATS Formatting Issues Before Submission

Frankly, it’s surprising how many candidates don’t verify their resume’s ATS compatibility until after they’ve missed multiple calls. A great way to avoid this is by testing your resume with an ATS resume checker.

By running your document through a tool, you can discover how well your resume performs and which sections fail in ATS parsing. Tools like the one at CV Owl’s ATS Resume Checker break down formatting issues so you don’t waste time guessing.

If your resume produces strange output or missing sections after upload, you’ve found your first formatting error. It’s helpful to look at the text-only version by saving your resume as a .txt file then opening it. This shows what the ATS “sees.” If critical parts are scrambled or lost, that’s your signal to get back to editing.

Fixing Common ATS Formatting Errors

1. Simplify Document Structure

Keep your resume layout easy to read for ATS. That means avoiding tables and text boxes. Instead, use simple left-aligned text blocks with clear section headings like EXPERIENCE, EDUCATION, and SKILLS.

Use standard fonts such as Arial, Calibri, or Times New Roman in 10-12 point size. Stick to black text on a white background for maximum clarity.

2. Avoid Headers, Footers, and Graphics

Don’t stash your contact details in headers or footers. Many ATS skip content there completely. Put your name, phone number, email, and LinkedIn link in the main body right at the top.

Similarly, drop any images, logos, or icons. While they might catch a recruiter’s eye, they’re invisible to most ATS software.

3. Choose ATS-Friendly Bullet Points

Rather than fancy symbols, use simple characters like hyphens (-) or standard round bullets. Complex symbols can become gibberish or disappear in ATS parsing.

4. Use Standard Section Headings

When labeling parts of your resume, stick to basics: EXPERIENCE, EDUCATION, SKILLS, CERTIFICATIONS, and SUMMARY. The ATS looks for these to categorize info correctly. Custom or quirky headings can confuse the system or cause it to miss sections.

Managing Keywords Without Overdoing It

ATS bots mostly scan resumes for keywords related to the job description. But stuffing keywords randomly without proper formatting only makes your résumé less reader-friendly and doesn’t help ATS read your content better.

Place keywords naturally inside your job descriptions, skills list, and summary. Group related skills under clear headings and avoid creating stuffed keyword clouds. Too many keywords without context might flag your resume as spammy or incoherent.

Look, a human still reviews your resume after the ATS does its job, so balance is crucial.

Saving and Uploading Your Resume

File type matters more than many realize. Save your resume as a .docx or .pdf only if allowed. DOCX is the safest format for most ATS systems. PDFs can be hit or miss – some ATS fail to parse them properly, especially if the file contains unusual fonts or images.

Always check the job application instructions for file type preferences. If no guidance exists, go with DOCX to stay safe.

Once uploaded, double-check with an ATS tester to confirm your resume retains all text properly.

Advanced Tips for ATS Optimization

Consistent Date Format

Be consistent with your date formatting. Use either MM/YYYY or Month Year but don’t mix formats within your resume. ATS often parses dates to scan for recent and relevant experience, so clarity here supports accurate ranking.

List Skills Separately

Many ATS prioritize skills sections. Create a distinct Skills area listing hard and soft skills relevant to the role. A plain, comma-separated list or single-line bullets works best.

Avoid Abbreviations Without Explanation

ATS may miss keywords if you only use acronyms. For example, instead of “SEO,” write “Search Engine Optimization (SEO)” on first mention. This ensures the system and recruiter understand your qualifications.

Testing Your Resume One Last Time

After you’ve applied your fixes, test your resume again with a trusted ATS resume checker like the one on CV Owl. Scan for missing text, broken formatting, or dropped content. If issues still appear, revisit problem areas and simplify further.

Don’t wait to hear back – an extra 10 minutes testing can save weeks of missed opportunities.

What Recruiters See vs. What ATS Sees

Remember, ATS don't judge your resume’s look. They parse text only. Recruiters want clarity, relevance, and easy-to-scan information. Your resume should work well both for machines and humans. Fixing formatting errors benefits both parties.

Think of your resume as if you’re designing two views: one simple, structured for ATS, one polished but straightforward for recruiter eyes. With these fixes, you hit that balance.

Wrapping Up Your ATS Fixes

Fixing ATS errors isn’t just about formatting—it’s about ensuring your skills and achievements get through the first digital filter and into the hands of a human recruiter. It demands patience and testing, but once done, your resume stands a better shot at being noticed.

Start by removing complex layouts, use standard fonts and headings, and test with an ATS resume checker. Watch your resume from the system’s point of view and adapt until it reads cleanly.

At the end of the day, it’s your work experience and skills that matter most – but only if the ATS lets them through.