PDF vs Word: Why You Should ALWAYS Send Your Resume as a PDF

You have spent 4 years studying and 4 hours writing your resume. You hit "Send." But the recruiter opens it, and your formatting is destroyed.

Why? Because you sent a Word document.

The "Word" Problem

Microsoft Word files (.docx) are *editable* documents. Their appearance depends on the user's fonts, screen size, and Word version.

• If the recruiter doesn't have the font you used, Word replaces it with a default one (like Times New Roman).

• Your perfectly aligned text boxes might jump to the next page.

• It looks unprofessional.

The "PDF" Solution

PDF stands for Portable Document Format. It locks your design in place.

• What You See Is What They Get: A PDF looks exactly the same on a phone, a MacBook, or a Windows PC.

• Security: It is harder to accidentally edit or delete text in a PDF.

• Professionalism: It shows you understand industry standards.

The ATS Myth (Debunked)

Some seniors will tell you, "ATS (Applicant Tracking Systems) can't read PDFs!"

This is outdated advice. Modern ATS software (like Greenhouse or Lever) reads text-based PDFs perfectly.

The Only Rule: Do not scan an image of your resume. Save it as a PDF from Word or LaTeX.

How to Fix Your Resume Now

If your resume is currently in Word or Google Docs:

1. Proofread it one last time.

2. Go to File > Export > Create PDF.

3. If you have multiple certificates to attach, use our Merge Tool to combine your Resume + Cover Letter + Certificates into one single file.

Recruiters love a single file. It saves them clicks, and it might just get you the interview.