Documents
How to Write an ATS-Friendly CV
Structure a readable CV that applicant tracking systems and human reviewers can interpret reliably.
7 minute read
An ATS-friendly CV is first a clear document. Straightforward headings, consistent dates, readable text, and relevant evidence help both software and people understand it.
Use a predictable information hierarchy
Use familiar section names such as Experience, Education, Skills, and Projects. Keep employer, role, location, and date information visually connected.
Prefer robust formatting
Avoid using text boxes, decorative tables, headers, footers, or graphics for essential information. These can alter extraction order even when the page looks correct.
- Use selectable text
- Keep body text legible
- Use consistent bullet styles
- Export and inspect the final PDF
Write evidence-rich bullets
Start with the work performed, add useful context, and state the result where one exists. Avoid invented percentages or numbers you cannot explain.
Run a final extraction check
Copy the text from the final PDF into a plain-text editor. If sections, dates, or bullets appear in the wrong order, simplify the layout before applying.
Key takeaways
- Clarity is more important than decoration
- Relevant evidence matters more than keyword stuffing
- Always inspect the exported file, not only the editor