Slate resume template: how to use it, tips & FAQ
Slate is best for: Clean, modern applications in operations, HR, project management and business roles.
Use Slate — freeAll 46 templates
Live preview with fictional sample content, drawn by the same renderer as the builder.
What the Slate layout looks like
A light tinted sidebar with photo, contact and skills beside a calm main column.
The photo only appears if you upload one. In the builder, the Show these details? panel lets you show or hide the photo, date of birth, nationality, marital status and visa status — and that single setting applies to the preview, the PDF, the Word file and printing.
Who the Slate template suits
Think twice for: Roles that call for a very compact one-page resume with many sections.
Is Slate ATS-friendly?
Two columns. Use the Text PDF or .docx for strict portals.
Whatever design you choose, the builder's Application view shows the same content as a simple one-column page, and the Text PDF and .docx downloads keep selectable text in a clear reading order. No tool can guarantee how a particular employer's system reads a file, so follow the job advert's instructions. More in our ATS-friendly resume guide.
Tips for a stronger Slate resume
- Pair with the Inter font for a crisp look.
- Keep sidebar skills to single words or short phrases.
- Use the Sections & order panel to hide projects if you have none.
How to make a Slate resume in 5 steps
- Open Slate in the free builder — no account needed.
- Enter your details in the form, or import a JSON backup from another device.
- Click any text on the page to edit it in place; press Enter to finish or Esc to cancel.
- Check page flow with the page markers, then look at Application view for portals.
- Download a Text PDF, a Word .docx, a Design PDF or print.
Slate template FAQ
What is the difference between Slate and Sidebar?
Slate uses a light tinted sidebar; Sidebar uses a solid accent colour. Slate is quieter and prints lighter.
Can I change the sidebar colour?
The tint follows the accent colour you choose in the toolbar.
Is the Slate template free?
Yes. Slate is free to edit and download as a PDF or Word (.docx) file, with no sign-up and no watermark.
Can I switch from Slate to another template without losing my content?
Yes. Your details are stored once and every template reads the same content, so switching designs never deletes anything. You can also undo a change.
Which file should I send to an online application portal?
Use the Text PDF or the Word (.docx) download. Both keep your content in a simple reading order with selectable text. Use the Design PDF when you email the resume directly to a person.