ATS-friendly CV checklist

Formatting & layout

Keep the structure simple so the text is easy to parse in a predictable order.

Use a single-column layout for the main content rather than multi-column blocks.
Avoid putting key details inside tables, text boxes, headers, or footers.
Skip images, icons, logos, and charts for information you need read as text.
Use standard, widely available fonts and a readable size.
Keep consistent spacing and avoid relying on colour alone to convey meaning.

Section headings

Use clear, conventional headings so each section is easy to identify.

Use familiar section names like “Experience”, “Education”, and “Skills”.
Avoid creative or unusual headings that obscure what a section contains.
Keep one clear heading per section, in a logical top-to-bottom order.
Put your name and contact details in the normal body of the document.

Keywords & relevance

Reflect the language of the role honestly, based on your real experience.

Mirror important terms from the job description where they genuinely apply to you.
Spell out acronyms at least once (for example, “SEO (search engine optimisation)”).
Describe tools, skills, and titles in plain, commonly used terms.
Do not stuff keywords or list skills you cannot back up — keep it truthful.

File type & naming

Save and name the file in a way that is easy to handle and read.

Follow the file type the application asks for; a text-based PDF or .docx is usually safe.
Make sure the text is selectable, not a scanned image of a document.
Use a clear file name such as “Firstname-Lastname-CV.pdf”.
Check the exported file actually opens and looks correct before sending.

Readability

Make the content easy to scan for both software and a human reader.

Lead bullet points with strong, specific verbs and keep them concise.
Use consistent date formats and a clear, reverse-chronological order.
Break dense paragraphs into short bullets where it helps clarity.
Proofread for spelling and consistency so terms are easy to match.

Tailoring per role

Adjust emphasis for each application instead of sending one generic CV.

Prioritise the experience and skills most relevant to the specific role.
Adjust your summary and bullet emphasis to match what the role asks for.
Remove or de-emphasise details that are not relevant to this application.
Re-check the role's wording each time and update where it genuinely fits.