An applicant tracking system (ATS) helps employers collect and organize applications. Different employers use different software and processes, so no free online test can reliably predict a universal “ATS score.” Your strongest approach is to make your resume readable to people and machines.
What an ATS often does
Some systems parse names, contact details, employers, dates and skills into structured fields. Others simply store your uploaded resume for recruiter review or provide search and filtering. The way a document is interpreted varies with the system and the employer's setup.
Use familiar headings
Labels like Work Experience, Education, Skills and Projects make your information easier to locate. Creative labels can make scanning harder. Put critical contact information in the main document body rather than relying exclusively on decorative headers, images or icons.
Prefer a straightforward layout
Use readable fonts, reasonable margins, clear text, consistent dates and a simple section order. Tables, complex multi-column grids and text boxes can sometimes create unexpected reading order. A visually plain resume can still look professional through typography and spacing.
Use relevant keywords naturally
Job descriptions can tell you what terminology matters to a particular position. For a project coordinator role, that might include scheduling, budget tracking or stakeholder updates. If you really performed those tasks, describe them in your experience and skills. Do not claim an unfamiliar tool merely because the job posting mentions it.
Understand file formats
Follow the employer's requested format. A text-based PDF often preserves layout well, but some forms ask for DOCX and some older parsing workflows work differently. Check the application instructions rather than assuming one file format wins everywhere. Scanned images of a resume are usually a poor choice when selectable text is expected.
What a keyword comparison can reveal
A basic checklist can point out missing headings or terms from a job description. It cannot judge whether your employment history is credible, whether a recruiter will like your writing, or how a proprietary ATS ranks applicants. Treat a match as an editing prompt, not a pass/fail result.
A responsible review process
- Write a clear master resume with accurate facts.
- Read the role requirements and identify what you can genuinely demonstrate.
- Adjust your summary, skills and top bullets to emphasize relevant experience.
- Export your file and verify its text can be selected or copied.
- Use the employer's required format and carefully inspect your submission.
Try the free resume checklist to compare text with a posting, and the resume builder for straightforward templates.
For additional practical examples, see our professional summary examples and resume accomplishment examples.