Resume File Format for ATS: DOCX, PDF, TXT, and What Works Best
The file format you choose for your resume directly impacts parsing accuracy. While DOCX and PDF are the two most common choices, each has distinct advantages and risks. Choosing the right format for each situation can significantly improve your ATS compatibility.
File Format Comparison for ATS
Each file format stores text differently, affecting how reliably the ATS can extract your information. DOCX stores text in structured XML, making extraction straightforward. PDF stores text as positioned characters, requiring the parser to reconstruct reading order. TXT is pure text with no formatting, extracting perfectly but looking unprofessional.
The choice isn't absolute—it depends on the ATS platform, how the file was created, and the job posting's requirements. However, DOCX is the safest default choice for ATS applications because it provides the most consistent parsing across all platforms.
| Format | Parsing Reliability | Visual Quality | Best Use Case |
|---|---|---|---|
| DOCX | 95% (highest) | Good | ATS applications (default choice) |
| PDF (from Word) | 85-90% | Excellent | When posting requests PDF |
| PDF (from design tool) | 40-70% | Excellent | Direct human submissions only |
| TXT | 100% | No formatting | Rare—when posting requests plain text |
| RTF | 85-90% | Good | When DOCX isn't accepted |
| ODT | 70-80% | Good | Avoid—less universal support |
When to Use Each Format
Use DOCX as your default for all ATS applications unless specifically instructed otherwise. It parses most reliably and is accepted by virtually every ATS platform.
Use PDF when the job posting specifically requests it, or when sending directly to a recruiter via email. Create the PDF by exporting from Word or Google Docs (never from a design tool). Always test the PDF can have text selected.
Use TXT only when specifically requested or when dealing with very old ATS systems. Convert your resume to plain text, clean up the formatting, and ensure readability without any visual enhancement.
Formats to Avoid
Avoid ODT (LibreOffice format) because many ATS platforms don't support it natively. Avoid .pages (Apple Pages format) because it's not recognized by most ATS platforms. Avoid .doc (older Word format) when possible—while still supported, DOCX provides better parsing.
Never submit image files (JPEG, PNG) as resumes. Never submit Google Docs links instead of file uploads. Never submit password-protected files. These will all fail at the ATS intake stage.
Pro Tips
Default to DOCX for all ATS applications—it's the most universally compatible format
If PDF is required, create it by saving from Word or Google Docs, never from design tools
Name your file professionally: FirstName_LastName_Resume.docx
Keep file size under 2MB by avoiding embedded images and unnecessary formatting
Test any PDF by trying to select and copy text before submitting
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Submitting a Canva-exported PDF assuming it's as good as a Word-exported PDF
Using .pages format on non-Apple systems where it won't open
Submitting oversized files with embedded high-resolution images
Not following file format instructions in the job posting