ATS CV CHECKLIST

Is your CV ready for the systems that read it first?

Tick each statement that is true of your CV. An ATS-friendly CV is more likely to be read, searched and interpreted correctly, though no format guarantees an interview.

File and structure

My CV is a DOCX file, unless the employer asks for PDF, and is never a scanned or image-only file Text can be selected and copied when the file is open The filename is clear and professional, e.g. "Sarah-Wallace-CV.docx" Section headings are standard: Professional Profile, Employment History, Education, Skills Employment history is reverse-chronological with clear titles, employers and dates Dates follow one consistent format throughout Contact details sit in the main body near the top, never only in the header or footer

Formatting and design

I use a standard, readable font at 10.5 to 12pt body size The layout is a simple single column, reading top to bottom There are no text boxes, columns, tables, icons, graphics, charts, logos or skill-rating bars Bullet points are conventional, with no decorative or unusual symbols Spacing and alignment are consistent from section to section

Keywords and relevance

My CV is tailored to this specific role, not sent unchanged everywhere Key terms from the job description appear naturally, with no keyword stuffing Abbreviations and full terms are both used, e.g. "Customer Relationship Management (CRM)" Claims are backed by evidence, not just asserted

Experience, skills and qualifications

Achievements are clear, with measurable results where possible Each role has enough context: employer, department, team or remit There are no unexplained employment gaps, and promotions are clearly shown A core skills section is relevant to the target role, with technical and soft skills separated Qualifications, certifications, licences and memberships are listed accurately There are no vague skills such as "hard-working" without supporting evidence

Final accuracy checks

I have copied my CV into plain text to check reading order and spot missing content Spelling is correct and terminology is consistent throughout Links and email addresses are correct and work when clicked I have read my CV against the target job description before submitting

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