ATS CV Format, File Types & Download Help
Review CV layout, readable headings, PDF and Word formats, and how to check your exported document. Use the answers to improve clarity and understand what a CV checker can and cannot tell you.
Explore these 20 related questions together, then open an individual discussion to share your experience or ask a follow-up. Answers are starting points for planning your next step; check the actual vacancy and relevant official guidance for your circumstances.
What does ATS mean?
An applicant tracking system helps employers organise applications. Different employers use different systems and screening processes.
Discuss this question →Does a high CV score guarantee an interview?
No. ResumeStation’s score is a content check, not a hiring decision or certification by an employer’s system.
Discuss this question →Which layout is easiest to read?
A simple single-column layout with clear headings is a sensible starting point. Follow the employer’s instructions first.
Discuss this question →Which headings should I use?
Use familiar headings such as Experience, Education, Skills and Training. Avoid decorative labels that hide the purpose of a section.
Discuss this question →Should I put contact details in a footer?
Keep essential contact information in the main body so it is easy to find and copy.
Discuss this question →Should I submit PDF or Word?
Use the format requested in the advert. If both are accepted, check that your chosen file preserves readable text.
Discuss this question →How can I check a PDF contains text?
Try selecting and copying a paragraph into a plain-text editor. Check that the words appear in a sensible order.
Discuss this question →Is a scanned CV suitable?
A scan may be harder for software to read. Export a text-based document when the application accepts one.
Discuss this question →Can I add keywords from the advert?
Use relevant terms where they truthfully describe your experience. Do not add skills merely to increase a score.
Discuss this question →Should I hide keywords in white text?
No. Hidden keywords misrepresent your application and make it harder to review honestly.
Discuss this question →Why does my score change after editing?
The checker reacts to the content you provide. Read the explanation instead of treating the number as the goal.
Discuss this question →How do I name a CV file?
Use a simple name such as Firstname-Lastname-Care-Assistant-CV.pdf. Avoid version names that look unfinished.
Discuss this question →Can a colourful CV still be readable?
Yes, if contrast and structure remain clear. Keep essential information understandable without relying on colour.
Discuss this question →What font size should I choose?
Choose a comfortable reading size and check the exported page at normal zoom. Do not shrink text just to force one page.
Discuss this question →How should I handle a second page?
Keep headings with their content and check page breaks. A readable second page is better than cramped text.
Discuss this question →Why did my bullet symbols change?
Fonts and export formats can render symbols differently. Use standard bullets and review the actual downloaded file.
Discuss this question →What if my iPad opens the PDF instead of saving it?
Use the PDF viewer’s Share menu and choose Save to Files where available. Check the file opens from Files afterwards.
Discuss this question →What if nothing downloads on my device?
Retry once, check the browser’s download list and use the available open or share option. Keep your draft while reporting the issue.
Discuss this question →Should I include icons instead of text labels?
Use written labels for essential information. Decorative icons should not be the only way to identify a contact field.
Discuss this question →How do I check the final CV quickly?
Read the exported document aloud, copy a paragraph to check text and ask someone to verify the contact details.
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