• Use a standard reverse-chronological format with clear section labels.
• Match the target job title when it truthfully reflects your background.
• Place contact info in body text, not headers/footers or graphics.
• Write a 2–4 line summary packed with relevant keywords and outcomes.
• Mirror exact skills and tools named in the job description when accurate.

• Quantify impact in bullets using %, $, time saved, scope, or volume.
• Keep bullets concise: action verb + context + measurable result.
• Use common headings: Summary, Experience, Education, Skills, Certifications.
• Save as PDF only after confirming the layout is ATS-readable and searchable.
• Remove tables, icons, text boxes, and decorative columns from final uploads.

What scanners look for

• Title match with the role you want.
• Relevant hard skills and domain keywords.
• Recent, continuous employment history.
• Evidence of ownership, scale, and results.
• Education, certifications, and credentials.

Formatting rules

• Use standard fonts like Arial, Calibri, Helvetica.
• Keep margins readable and section spacing consistent.
• Avoid images, charts, and skill bars.
• Spell out acronyms at least once.
• Use month/year dates for every role.

Project link checklist

• Repository is public or demo is accessible.
• README explains problem, stack, and outcome.
• Link points directly to the right project.
• Include technologies actually used.
• Mention users, stars, downloads, or business outcome if available.

Technical bullet formula

Action + system / feature + stack + business or technical result.

• Using a creative title instead of the target role name.
• Submitting the same resume to every job.
• Burying relevant skills on page two.
• Listing responsibilities without outcomes.
• Using graphics, icons, or columns that break parsing.
• Leaving unexplained employment gaps or missing dates.
• Stuffing keywords without evidence.
• Using vague summaries like “hardworking team player.”

• Including an unprofessional email address.
• Writing paragraphs instead of bullets.
• Adding references or “references available upon request.”
• Including salary expectations on the resume.
• Using first person pronouns.
• Adding irrelevant jobs from 15+ years ago without context.
• Failing to proofread role titles, company names, and dates.