ATS-Friendly Resume in 2026: A Simple Checklist That Works

Most resumes fail for one of two reasons: they are hard to scan, or they don’t match the job description. The good news: you can fix both without redesigning everything.

1) Start with a “target version” of your CV

Pick one role you’re applying for (example: Frontend Developer – React). Your CV should look like it was written for that role, not for every job you’ve ever done.

Quick rule: if a keyword is in the job description and you truly have it, it should appear in your CV.

2) Keep your layout ATS-safe (without looking boring)

ATS systems still struggle with complex designs. Use:

• one column layout (or a very simple two-column only if text is plain)
• standard headings: Summary, Skills, Experience, Education
• normal fonts (no icon fonts)
• consistent date format (e.g. 2023–2025)
• a clean PDF export

Avoid:

• tables for the main content
• text inside images
• excessive graphics, progress bars, or rating stars

3) Build a Skills section that matches the job post

Instead of a long list, group skills by type:

• Frontend: React, Next.js, TypeScript, Tailwind
• Backend: ASP.NET Core, REST, EF Core
• Database: SQL Server
• Cloud: Azure App Service, Azure SQL
• Quality: logging, testing, CI/CD

If the job asks for “authentication”, mention what you used:

• JWT, OAuth, Identity, roles/permissions

4) Rewrite Experience with proof (not responsibilities)

Recruiters care about impact. Use this format:

Action + tool + result

• Improved API response time by 40% by optimizing SQL queries and adding indexes.
• Reduced login failures by implementing JWT validation and better error handling.
• Shipped a production deployment on Azure App Service with automated migrations (EF Core).

If you don’t have numbers, use:

• time saved, bugs reduced, features delivered, users supported, performance improved

5) Make your first 10 seconds obvious

At the top of the CV, add:

• a clear title (the role)
• a 2–3 line summary
• 3–6 “core” skills that match the job

Example: Full Stack Developer (React / .NET)
Building production-ready web apps with secure auth, SQL-backed APIs, and clean UI.

6) Final ATS checklist (copy/paste)

Before submitting:

• the job title appears in your CV (if true)
• top keywords appear in Skills and Experience
• each job has 3–6 bullets with outcomes
• file name is professional: FirstName_LastName_Resume.pdf
• no empty pages, no images-only sections

Tip: You don’t need 50 keywords. You need the right 12–20, used naturally in the right places.