PDF preserves your layout and is parsed correctly by modern systems. Send DOCX only when the employer explicitly requests it.

Are Canva templates safe?

Most are not. They rely on text boxes and columns that parse out of order. If you use one, run an ATS check before you rely on it.

Do I need a cover letter too?

In Singapore it is optional for most roles but expected in government, education and some agency applications.

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📄 Resume · Singapore

The Best Resume Format for Singapore Applications

Use a single-column, reverse-chronological resume saved as PDF, with standard section headings, a common font at 10–12pt and no tables, columns or graphics.

Format is the cheapest fix in a job search. The same content in the wrong layout can lose 20 points of ATS score.

Reverse chronological beats functional

Functional resumes group skills and hide dates. Singapore recruiters read that as a gap being concealed, and applicant tracking systems cannot build a timeline from it. Stay chronological, even when switching careers.

ATS-safe formatting rules

One column, top to bottom
Standard headings: Summary, Experience, Education, Skills
Arial, Calibri, Helvetica or Georgia at 10–12pt
Margins of 1.5–2cm, consistent spacing
Dates as 'Jan 2023 – Mar 2025' in every entry
Save as PDF unless the job ad asks for DOCX

File naming

Name the file so a recruiter can find it later: 'Tan-Wei-Ming-Business-Analyst-Resume.pdf'. Avoid 'resume-final-v3.pdf'.

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Frequently asked questions

PDF or Word?: PDF preserves your layout and is parsed correctly by modern systems. Send DOCX only when the employer explicitly requests it.
Are Canva templates safe?: Most are not. They rely on text boxes and columns that parse out of order. If you use one, run an ATS check before you rely on it.
Do I need a cover letter too?: In Singapore it is optional for most roles but expected in government, education and some agency applications.

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Last reviewed 2026-06-01 by the Thrivn team.