One ColumnMinimalist
Clean ATS Resume
Check that all contact information is real text rather than an image, and export a selectable-text PDF or DOCX.
EDIT IN WORD
Free ATS Resume Templates for Word
Choose a free ATS resume layout for Microsoft Word. Focus on readable paragraphs, check line breaks in DOCX, and send the file type the employer requests.
✓ 17 free templates✓ Editable .docx✓ No sign-up
One ColumnProfessional
Classic Professional ATS Resume
Lead experience bullets with action and outcome, not just a list of duties.
One ColumnProfessional
Professional ATS Resume
Retain the standard contact, experience, education, and skills sections when adapting the layout.
One ColumnClassic
Traditional ATS Resume
Export to Word or PDF, then check that the shaded heading bands have not become text boxes.
ChronologicalClassic
Chronological ATS Resume
Use consistent dates and put the most recent work first.
One ColumnClassic
One-Column ATS Resume
Check that employer names, titles, and dates remain associated when copied into plain text.
Two PagesMinimalist
Minimalist ATS Resume
Use consistent dates and conventional section headings. Keep the newest, most relevant roles on the first page.
One PageMinimalist
Minimalist Basic ATS Resume
Because split layouts can be read differently by different ATS platforms, copy text from your export to check its order before you apply.
One ColumnMinimalist
Clean One-Column ATS Resume
Avoid placing required keywords only in headers or footers; keep them in the resume body.
One PageMinimalist
Simple One-Page ATS Resume
Do not shrink the body text excessively just to fit every position on one page.
One ColumnMinimalist
Minimal Black ATS Resume
Keep text contrast high and use standard bullet characters.
One ColumnProfessional
Technical ATS Resume
Match terminology in the job posting only if the tools and methods are part of your actual experience.
One ColumnClassic
Universal ATS Resume
Remove empty sections and customize the summary to match the role you want.
One PageClassic
Centered ATS Resume
Make sure text is selectable after export; decorative centering is not a substitute for readable headings.
One PageProfessional
One-Page ATS Resume
Review the final reading order, hyperlinks, and dates before uploading.
One PageProfessional
Executive ATS Resume
Put scope, metrics, and business outcomes in the first work-history bullets.
One ColumnMinimalist
Full ATS Minimalist Resume
Keep the finished document in normal body text and test a copied plain-text version.
No templates found
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EDITING TIPS
How to use an ATS template in Microsoft Word
Open a Word-compatible file for the layout you prefer and edit the text using Word’s normal paragraph styles. Avoid inserting shapes for essential content. Open the saved file again to check that nothing moved.
For online job applications, upload the type of file requested by the employer. If PDF is allowed, verify that the text is selectable; if DOCX is required, send the DOCX. Neither file format is universally best for every ATS.
ATS formatting checklist →Quick test
- Export your completed resume.
- Open the exported file.
- Select all and paste into a plain-text editor.
- Check name, headings, dates and bullet order.
MICROSOFT WORD EDITING GUIDE
How to prepare an ATS-friendly resume in Microsoft Word
Word is a practical choice when an employer explicitly requests a DOCX file or when you prefer to work with desktop editing tools. Choose a template with predictable sections, save a working copy, and use Word's paragraph formatting rather than placing important details in floating objects. The final DOCX needs to be as readable as the page looks.
Download, save, and open the file
Use the available Word download for the design you prefer. Save a working copy before changing the sample content. If the file opens in Protected View, check its source and enable editing only when you trust it. Verify that the page size, font family, and section breaks have not changed during download or conversion.
Use Word styles and paragraphs
Give important sections recognizable labels. Word's built-in paragraph and heading styles can help keep line spacing, font weight, and indent levels consistent. Avoid positioning crucial information inside text boxes, shapes, or complex nested tables merely to make items align. When pasting from another document, choose plain text or match formatting to prevent hidden style conflicts.
Keep dates with their positions
Make sure each employer, title, and date range forms a clear unit. Right-aligned dates are common, but unusual tab stops can cause them to drift after export. Keep the chronology consistent and avoid manual spaces to imitate columns. Use normal bullet lists, not symbols pasted from an image or icon font.
Review DOCX and PDF separately
Before uploading, save the DOCX and reopen it. If the employer accepts PDF and you prefer that format, export a second version and inspect the text in both. Some fonts, page breaks, and spacing settings render differently across versions of Word and other editors. A reliable check is to select all text and paste it into a plain-text file, then verify that contact details and experience are still in the expected order.
GOOD TO KNOW
Frequently asked questions
Can I change the wording and font in the Word file?
Yes. Edit the downloaded document and keep readable body text, consistent headings and predictable spacing.
Should I upload a DOCX or PDF?
Follow the file-format instructions on the application page. For either file type, inspect the exported content before submitting.
Do I need special resume software?
No. The Word edition can be edited in Microsoft Word; the Google Docs alternative is also available.