How to Fix Resume Issues Found by ATS Resume Checker

What Is an ATS Resume Checker and Why Is It Important?

An ATS resume checker is a software tool designed to mimic how an applicant tracking system scans and evaluates your resume. It tests your document for formatting, keyword usage, structure, and readability to ensure it complies with ATS algorithms. Recognizing and fixing issues flagged by the ATS resume checker can drastically improve your chances of making it to the recruiter’s desk.

For a deeper dive into how ATS resume checkers work and how to effectively test your resume, check out this complete guide to ATS resume checkers.

Common Resume Issues Detected by ATS Resume Checkers

Before you can fix your resume, you need to understand what common problems ATS checkers detect. Here are some frequent issues that undermine your resume’s performance:

• Incompatible Formatting: Fancy templates, tables, images, headers/footers, and unusual fonts often confuse ATS parsing software.
• Poor Keyword Optimization: Missing or underusing job-relevant keywords causes your resume to rank low in ATS results.
• Incorrect Section Headings: ATS relies on standard headings like “Work Experience” or “Education” — unconventional titles may not be recognized.
• Excessive Graphics and Visuals: ATS systems cannot interpret images, icons, logos, or other graphics, causing key information to be ignored.
• Overly Complex Layouts: Multi-column layouts or text boxes can disrupt the flow of information, confusing the ATS scanner.
• Lack of Contact Information Visibility: Hiding contact details in headers/footers or images leads ATS to miss critical data.
• Use of Acronyms Without Expansion: ATS might not recognize acronyms unless their full form is included.

How to Fix Formatting Issues Flagged by the ATS

Formatting errors are among the top issues that ATS resume checkers highlight. Here’s how to address them:

1. Use a Simple, Clean Template

Choose a straightforward layout with a chronological or hybrid format. Avoid templates that include tables, text boxes, or columns.

2. Stick to Standard Fonts

Use common fonts such as Arial, Calibri, or Times New Roman. Unusual fonts may not be readable by ATS software.

3. Avoid Headers and Footers for Important Information

Place your contact information in the main body of the resume, as many ATS parsers ignore headers and footers.

4. Remove Graphics and Images

Eliminate photos, icons, charts, or logos because ATS cannot parse images, making this data invisible to recruiters.

5. Save Your Resume in ATS-Friendly Formats

Use .docx or .pdf formats with caution (only if the job description allows PDFs), but .docx files are generally safest for ATS readability.

Optimizing Keywords for ATS Compatibility

Understanding the Role of Keywords

Applicant tracking systems scan resumes for keywords that match the job description. These keywords include skills, job titles, certifications, and relevant industry jargon.

1. Extract Keywords from the Job Description

Analyze the job posting for repeated skills, tools, responsibilities, and qualifications. Tools like word clouds can help visualize frequent terms.

2. Incorporate Keywords Naturally

Use keywords contextually in your experience, skills, and summary sections. Avoid keyword stuffing or randomly listing keywords; ATS increasingly penalizes spammy tactics.

3. Use Full Terminology and Acronyms

Write both the acronym and its full form, e.g., “Search Engine Optimization (SEO),” to ensure recognition by ATS and human readers alike.

4. Match Job Titles When Possible

If your previous job title differs slightly but the role is equivalent, consider referencing the target job title alongside your actual one, while staying truthful.

Correcting Section Headings and Structure

Use Standard Headings

Standard headings such as “Work Experience,” “Education,” “Skills,” and “Certifications” are essential for ATS to categorize information correctly. Avoid creative headers like “My Journey” or “What I’ve Done.”

Keep a Logical Order

Organize sections in order of relevance, usually starting with a professional summary or objective, followed by work experience, education, and skills.

Consistent Date Format

Use a consistent format for dates, like “Jan 2026 – Dec 2026,” to ensure the ATS can parse employment duration and chronology accurately.

Enhancing Readability for Both ATS and Recruiters

Use Bullet Points for Responsibilities and Achievements

Bulleted lists make information easy to scan. Limit bullet points to 3-5 per job entry, focusing on accomplishments with quantifiable results where possible.

Avoid Complex Language and Jargon

While keywords are important, use clear and concise language that can be understood by both ATS and human readers.

Limit Use of Special Characters and Symbols

ATS may misinterpret special characters; use standard punctuation and avoid unusual symbols to maintain clarity.

Fixing Contact Information Issues

Place Contact Information at the Top

Ensure phone number, email address, LinkedIn profile, and other relevant contacts are prominently displayed in the main body, not hidden within headers or footers.

Use a Professional Email Address

Use an email that includes your name or initials instead of nicknames or unprofessional handles.

Check and Update Contact Details Regularly

Avoid mistakes by double-checking phone numbers and links to ensure recruiters can reach you easily.

Validating and Testing Your Resume After Fixes

Once you have addressed the highlighted issues, retest your resume using an ATS resume checker. This step is crucial to confirm that corrections have been effective and your resume scores higher in ATS compatibility. Additionally, get feedback from recruiters or professional resume writers for human perspective adjustments.

For comprehensive tips on effectively testing and improving your resume beyond fixes, visit our complete ATS resume checker guide.

Extra Tips to Maintain ATS-Friendly Resumes Over Time

• Customize Each Resume: Tailor your resume for each job application by updating keywords and achievements to match the role.
• Keep It Updated: Regularly add new skills, certifications, and experience to keep your resume fresh and relevant.
• Use Clear Roles and Responsibilities: Outline roles succinctly and highlight quantifiable accomplishments for maximum impact.
• Save Master and Application Versions: Keep a master resume and tailor application versions to avoid losing important information.

Conclusion

Fixing resume issues identified by ATS resume checkers is not just a technical exercise but a strategic step to increase your job search success. By addressing formatting problems, optimizing keywords, adopting standard structure, and ensuring clarity, you make your resume truly ATS-friendly while still appealing to recruiters. Embrace the ATS as a partner in your hiring journey rather than a barrier, and consistently refine your resume using trusted ATS tools and resources.

For an in-depth understanding and continuous improvement, don’t forget to explore our ultimate ATS resume checker guide.