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Classic resume template

A traditional serif ATS resume template with profile summary, skills grid, and timeline sections — a conservative default for corporate screening.

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About this layout

Classic uses familiar serif typography and standard section order so parsers and recruiters both recognize the document structure immediately. Profile, skills, and experience each have dedicated space without decorative layout tricks.

Choose Classic when you want a timeless ATS layout for general corporate roles — finance back-office, HR, operations, and administrative tracks where readability beats visual flair. Pair with keyword tailoring from the job posting and export PDF unless the employer requests Word.

Layout characteristics

  • Serif-forward typography with traditional hierarchy
  • Profile summary block above experience
  • Skills grid with scannable grouping
  • Timeline-style work history with aligned dates

Best for

  • Corporate and back-office roles with ATS screening
  • Candidates who prefer a traditional resume look
  • Career paths where conservative presentation is expected
  • General applications when you need a reliable parseable default

ATS and export notes

  • Stick to standard headings — Experience, Education, Skills — for predictable parsing.
  • Keep skills as plain text; avoid icons or rating bars in skill rows.
  • PDF export preserves structure better than pasting into Word text boxes.

Validate your finished file with the free ATS checker before you apply through automated portals.

Customization and export

  • Reorder sections in the builder to match posting priorities.
  • Switch to Universal ATS for the strictest enterprise portals if needed.
  • Content carries over when you change templates.

Related templates

  • Universal ATS resume template
  • Half Tone resume template
  • Skills-First Professional resume template

Frequently asked questions

How is Classic different from Universal ATS?

Both prioritize parsing, but Classic uses serif typography and a skills grid profile layout. Universal ATS is even plainer — pick Classic when you want a traditional look and Universal ATS when screening strictness is the only priority.

Continue your job search

  • ATS resume templates that pass screening

    Browse more ats layouts like Classic.

  • Resume examples by role

    Find sample wording by job title to pair with this template.

  • Free ATS Resume Checker

    Test whether your Classic export parses cleanly before you submit.

  • Resume formats guide

    Choose chronological, combination, or functional structure before you finalize layout.

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