Lets talk about How to Improve ATS Score of resume?. When you apply for a job online, your resume is not always read by a human first. Instead, it often goes through an Applicant Tracking System (ATS) – a software used by recruiters to filter resumes before they even reach the hiring manager.
If your resume is not well optimized for ATS, then even a highly qualified candidate can also get rejected automatically. That’s why understanding how to improve your ATS score is essential.
With the right strategies, tools, and keywords, you can ensure your resume is ATS-friendly, keyword-rich, and recruiter-ready.
In this article, I’ll explain what an ATS score is, why it matters, and how you can boost it using smart techniques and free tools like the AI Resume Score Checker.
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What is an ATS Score and Why Does It Matter in Your Job Search?
An ATS score is a numeric value (usually between 0 and 100) that reflects how well your resume aligns with a job description based on keyword usage, formatting, and structure.
If your resume gets a higher score then ,it is more likely your resume will pass the ATS filter and get reviewed by a recruiter.
- ATS Score < 40: A Low ATS resume (there is a high chance of rejection for the job role).
- 40-70: Moderate score, needs improvement.
- 70+: Strong ATS compatibility, higher chances of selection.
Key Benefits of a High ATS Score:
- Pass ATS Filters: Your resume is not automatically rejected.
- Attracts Recruiters: Shows you match the required skills.
- Saves Time: Ensures your resume aligns with multiple job applications.
- Boosts Interviews: Higher score = higher chance of callbacks.
Example Table:
| ATS Score Range | What It Means | Recruiter Outcome |
| 0-40 | Weak resume, lacks keywords, poor formatting | Likely rejected |
| 40-70 | Average, needs improvement | May or may not pass |
| 70-100 | Strong, ATS-optimized resume | High chance of review |
How Do Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) Work?
If you want to improve your ATS score, first of all you need to understand how the ATS software processes resumes. Recruiters often receive hundreds and thousands of applications for a single job role.
ATS software automatically scans these resumes and ranks them based on:
- Keyword Matching -The system looks for job-related keywords from the job description (e.g., “Project Management,” “Python,” “Marketing Strategy”).
- Formatting – ATS-friendly resumes must use simple formatting without tables, headers, or graphics.
- Section Identification – It looks for clear sections like Experience, Education, Skills.
- Readability – Complex fonts, images, or columns may confuse the system.
- Relevance Score – The system calculates a score comparing your resume with the job posting.
This means a highly skilled candidate with a poorly formatted resume could score 30/100, while a less experienced but ATS-optimized candidate could score 80/100 and get shortlisted.
Common Mistakes That Lower Your ATS Score
Even strong resumes can fail ATS if they include certain mistakes. Here are the most common errors job seekers make: Some of the common resume mistakes job seekers make include using images, logos, and missing job-specific keywords.
- Using images, logos, or graphics in resumes
- Submitting resumes in JPEG/PNG formats (instead of PDF/DOCX)
- Using fancy fonts or multiple columns
- Missing job-specific keywords
- Writing generic skills instead of role-specific achievements
- Overloading resumes with buzzwords without real context
If you want to avoid these mistakes, test your resume with a free tool like the AI Resume Score Checker, which instantly identifies such issues.
How to Improve ATS Score: Step-by-Step Guide
Improving your ATS score is not complicated, but it requires attention to detail. Here are the top strategies to boost your ATS resume score and stand out:
1. Use Job-Specific Keywords in Your Resume
ATS systems scan resumes for keywords directly taken from job descriptions. For example, if the job description says “Project Management Software: SDE 1, India” and your resume doesn’t mention them, you may score lower.
Action Tip: Copy the job description and highlight all the repeated keywords. Make sure they naturally appear in your resume under relevant sections.
2. Optimize Resume Formatting for ATS Compatibility
ATS systems struggle with resumes that use creative formatting. Avoid using tables, charts, graphics, or columns. Instead of this, you have to use simple headings like Experience, skills, educations, projects and Certifications.
- Use a clean font like Arial, Calibri, or Times New Roman.
- Stick to standard section titles.
- Save your file in PDF or DOCX format.
3. Tailor Each Resume to the Job Description
A one-size-fits-all resume won’t score well in ATS. Each and every job posting have an unique keywords and their job requirements.
Action Tip: Create a “master resume” and then tailor it for each job by updating keywords, skills, and responsibilities to match the specific posting.
4. Use an AI Resume Score Checker to Test Before Applying
Instead of guessing, you can test your resume using tools like the AI Resume Score Checker.
- Upload your resume in PDF or DOCX
- Instantly get a score (0-100)
- Receive detailed feedback on formatting, keywords, and content
- Try to Improve your resume and re-upload until you get a strong score
This process helps you continuously improve your resume before applying.
5. Focus on Action-Oriented Achievements Instead of Generic Skills
Instead of writing: “Responsible for managing projects.”
Write: “Managed 12+ client projects using Agile methodologies, increasing efficiency by 30%.”
Recruiters and ATS both prefer quantifiable achievements over vague responsibilities.
6. Keep Skills Section Keyword-Rich but Relevant
ATS heavily scans the Skills section. Both hard and soft skills play an important role to secure a good job.
Example:
| Weak Skills List | Strong ATS-Friendly Skills List |
| Communication, Teamwork | Agile Project Management, Python, Salesforce CRM, SEO Strategy |
How to Check Resume Score on ResumeFixerPro.com
Checking your resume score on ResumeFixer.pro is quick, simple, and 100% free. The tool is designed to help job seekers instantly analyze their resume and identify areas for improvement so they can stand out to recruiters.
To get started, just upload your resume in PDF or DOCX format by dragging and dropping the file or browsing from your computer. Once uploaded, the AI-powered system scans your resume for structure, formatting, keywords, and ATS compatibility.
Within seconds, you’ll receive an instant score out of 100, along with detailed feedback highlighting strengths and weaknesses.
The best part? ResumeFixerpro.com keeps your document completely private. No signup is required, and your resume is never stored on the server. You not only get a resume score but also actionable tips to improve sections like readability, keyword optimization, and overall presentation.
By using this tool regularly, you can refine your resume step by step, increase your chances of passing ATS filters, and ultimately make a stronger impression on recruiters.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Improving ATS Score
What is a resume score and why is it important?
A high score improves your chances of being seen by recruiters.
What’s the best way to check my ATS score without paying?
You can use the free AI Resume Score Checker to instantly analyze your resume and get actionable insights.
What is the best format for ATS-friendly resumes?
Always use PDF or DOCX formats. Avoid JPEG, PNG, or image-based resumes.
What should we not include in own ATS resume?
Do not include images, logos, fancy designs, or irrelevant skills.
Can I use AI to improve my ATS score?
Yes, AI tools like Resume Fixer Pro’s AI Resume Score Checker give you real-time feedback to continuously optimize your resume.
Conclusion: Improve ATS Score and Unlock More Job
Improving your ATS score is one of the most effective ways to ensure your resume gets noticed. With the right keywords, formatting, and feedback from tools like the AI Resume Score Checker, you can transform your resume into an ATS-friendly and recruiter-attractive document.
A well-scored resume not only passes the ATS filters but also makes a powerful first impression on hiring managers-bringing you one step closer to your dream job.