ATS resume guide

Applicant tracking systems parse structure before a recruiter reads your resume. Optimize for clarity, not keyword stuffing.

Use predictable headings

Stick to standard section titles: Summary, Experience, Education, Skills. Custom icons and tables often break parsers.

Quantify impact

Replace vague bullets with measurable outcomes. Hiring managers and scoring models both respond to specifics.

Match role language honestly

Mirror terminology from the job description only when it reflects real experience. Fabricated keywords hurt trust and interviews.

Export clean PDFs

Use standard fonts, avoid text boxes, and test exports with an ATS checker before you apply at scale.