PDF vs Word resume: which to send
The default answer is PDF — but there's one situation where Word wins. Here's the rule.
3 min read Updated November 1, 2025
Every 6 months someone re-lights the PDF vs Word debate. The answer hasn't changed since 2020.
Default: PDF
Preserves your formatting on every device, parses cleanly in modern ATS, and can't be accidentally edited by a recruiter.
Exception: when the posting says Word
Some agencies and older enterprise workflows want .docx so they can strip your header and add their own. Send exactly what's asked for — don't argue.
Never send
- Pages files (Mac-only, most recruiters can't open).
- Google Docs links (they'll say 'access denied').
- PDFs that are actually images of text (ATS can't parse).
FAQ
If both are accepted, which do I choose?
PDF. Always.
Put this into practice.
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