Resume guides
Resume & ATS guide
PDF vs DOCX: which resume format is best?
When to submit PDF, when DOCX is safer, and how to avoid image-only PDFs that ATS software cannot read.
5 min readUpdated Mar 2026
Build my resume freePDF — default for most applications
PDF preserves layout when recruiters open your file on any device. Use PDF when the employer accepts uploads and your file has selectable text (highlight test in Preview or Acrobat).
DOCX — when parsing matters
Some ATS pipelines parse Word more reliably. DOCX is also easier to edit quickly. If a portal asks specifically for .doc or .docx, use it.
The real problem: image PDFs
Canva “Print to PDF”, phone scans, and screenshot exports create image PDFs with zero text. Always use Download → PDF from the source app, or export DOCX from a resume builder.
FAQ
- Does Rolivio export both PDF and DOCX?
- Yes. Edit in Rolivio, choose a template, and export PDF or DOCX when you apply.
Roll your career forward
Create or upload your resume, run ATS job match, and export when you are ready to apply.