Basic Resume Format

A simple, ATS-friendly resume format that works for any job. Free to download, easy to edit, no design experience needed.

A basic resume format sticks to what actually gets read — by both hiring managers and the software that screens resumes before a human ever sees them. No columns, no graphics, no creative layouts that can confuse an ATS. Just your experience, clearly organized, in a single-column structure that works whether you're applying to a startup or a Fortune 500 company.

📄
All industries

Classic — Basic Format

Most downloaded

Clean, single-column layout. 98% ATS compatibility score. Works for any industry or experience level.

📃 1 page📎 Word
⬇ Download free basic templateOr build it in minutes with AI →

What a basic resume format includes

Five sections. Nothing you don't need.

✓
Contact information
Name, phone, email, city/state, and LinkedIn if you have one. No photo, no full street address.
✓
Summary or objective
2–3 sentences. What you do, your strongest skill, and what you're looking for.
✓
Work experience
Most recent job first. Job title, company, dates, and 3–5 bullet points focused on results, not duties.
✓
Education
Degree, school, graduation year. Add relevant coursework only if you're a recent graduate.
✓
Skills
A short, relevant list — not everything you've ever touched. Match the job description where you honestly can.

Common questions

What is a basic resume format?
A basic resume format is a simple, no-frills layout that lists your contact details, a short summary, work experience, education, and skills in clear sections — with no heavy design, graphics, or columns that could confuse an ATS. It's the safest choice when you're not sure what an employer's system expects.
What should a basic resume include?
Five sections cover almost every job: contact information, a 2–3 sentence summary or objective, work experience (most recent first), education, and a skills list. Add certifications only if they're relevant to the role.
Basic vs. modern resume format — which should I use?
Use basic if you're applying through large company ATS systems, in traditional industries (finance, healthcare, government), or if you're unsure. Use a modern format if you're in a creative field or applying directly to a smaller company where a human reads it first.
Is a basic resume format still effective in 2026?
Yes. Most applicant tracking systems still parse simple, single-column layouts most reliably. A clean basic format consistently outperforms heavily designed resumes for ATS pass-through rates.

Looking for something else? Browse all free CV templates or build a resume with AI.

Stay ahead

Get the best jobs in your inbox

Weekly job alerts, career tips, and salary insights — delivered straight to you. Join 50,000+ professionals.

No spam, ever. Unsubscribe anytime.