Optimise your CV for ATS systems in 2026
ATS gatekeep most applications. If the parser misses your skills, the recruiter never sees them—fix structure, wording and files.
🤖 How parsers read you
Most ATS strip text in reading order. Multi-column PDFs, text boxes, headers/footers and icons often drop content or scramble lines.
🔑 Keywords done right
Copy critical phrases from the job description (tools, certifications, methodologies) into natural bullet points—avoid invisible white-text stuffing.
📄 File hygiene
- Prefer simple .docx or text-first PDF
- Named sections: Experience, Education, Skills
- Standard fonts, 10–12pt body
📈 Prove impact
Numbers help humans after you pass the bot—keep bullets achievement-led.
✅ ATS checklist
- □ Single-column flow
- □ Skills spelled out (acronyms + long form once)
- □ Dates aligned and consistent
- □ Tested export (copy-paste test into notepad)