Resume Score Checker: Is Your Resume Strong Enough?
A resume checker uses advanced AI to review resumes for key improvements in layout, keywords, and formatting. Job seekers upload their file—PDF or DOCX up to 2MB—then quickly learn how their resume compares to what employers expect.
Key features include:
- Privacy protection for file uploads
- Fast results and clear feedback
- Sixteen important checks covering skills, language, and structure
To see how a resume checker works, review the following example resumes. Both are ready for use and reflect what recruiters want.
Example Resume for Marketing Assistant
Section | Content |
---|---|
Name | Taylor Brooks |
Contact | taylorbrooks@email.com, (555) 123-4567 |
Summary | Proactive marketing graduate skilled in digital campaigns. |
Experience | Marketing Intern, Shine Media, Jan 2023 – Apr 2024 |
– Managed social media ads, increasing engagement by 20% | |
– Assisted in email campaign design and analysis | |
Education | B.A. Marketing, State College |
Skills | Social media, email marketing, analytics, Canva |
Example Resume for Administrative Assistant
Section | Content |
---|---|
Name | Jordan Lee |
Contact | jordanlee@email.com, (555) 555-7890 |
Summary | Detail-oriented administrator with 3+ years of office support. |
Experience | Admin Assistant, Atlas Corp, Mar 2021 – May 2024 |
– Scheduled appointments and managed office records | |
– Handled travel arrangements and invoice processing | |
Education | High School Diploma |
Skills | Microsoft Office, calendar management, data entry |
To further enhance application materials, job seekers can also create a professional cover letter or build your resume with RoboApply for free.
How RoboApply’s Resume Checker Builds Its ATS Score in Two Steps
RoboApply’s Resume Checker uses a structured method to help job seekers see how well their resume might perform when scanned by an applicant tracking system (ATS). Their process looks at two main areas: how much of your resume’s information can be clearly read and understood, and which key features the checker finds during its scan.
The system is simple but effective, focusing first on whether the resume’s content is accessible, then assessing what specific resume elements get picked up. This approach gives users straightforward feedback about their document and concrete steps to increase their chances of job search success.
How Much of Your Resume Can the System Understand
Enhancv’s checker first looks at the percentage of your resume it can actually parse and interpret—very similar to how an ATS reads documents sent by job applicants. This stage is about format and content clarity. The more readable and well-structured the resume is, the more content will be interpreted.
Some common problems that limit interpretation include:
- Using nonstandard templates that ATS software can’t easily read
- Including images or graphics to show skills, contact details, or work history instead of typed words
- Using unusual file formats instead of standard PDFs or text files
A checklist of formatting best practices may look like this:
Formatting Feature | ATS-Friendly | Not ATS-Friendly |
---|---|---|
Simple, clean layout | ✓ | |
Standard fonts | ✓ | Unusual styles |
Typed text for all content | ✓ | Images, icons |
Consistent section headers | ✓ | Decorative fonts |
PDF or .docx file type | ✓ | .jpg, .png, etc. |
For example, a resume that uses a photograph to display contact info will result in less content being read and scored—because neither an ATS nor Enhancv’s tool can interpret text inside an image.
Example 1:
Jasmine uploads a resume that has her name and contact number inside a scripted header image. Enhancv’s checker only reads her job descriptions, missing her name and contact sections which lowers her ATS “compatibility” score. After switching to plain text headers and body, the checker interprets 95% of her resume and her ATS score improves.
Example 2:
Derek’s resume is built on a very modern template found online, with sidebars and graphic skill charts. Enhancv’s scan shows only 60% of his job experience was picked up—the graphics and sidebars were ignored. After he replaces the graphics with bulleted lists and basic text, the system reads 98% of his document and provides detailed feedback on all sections.
Using a widely-accepted, simple template from platforms like RoboApply helps ensure that most or all content is ATS-readable. These platforms also allow users to optimize your resume for both ATS and recruiter readability.
What Enhancv’s Checker Detects in Your Resume
Once the system has assessed which parts of your resume can be interpreted, it moves on to identify key elements that an ATS typically searches for. This includes parsing for:
- Contact and personal information
- Work experience
- Education
- Relevant skills
- Keywords from job descriptions
- Formatting features and section headers
If the system finds these features presented in recognizable ways, the resume receives a higher ATS score. If some sections are missing or formatted in ways that an ATS can’t read, the overall rating drops.
Main Factors Weighing Into Your Score
- Section completeness: Are work history, skills, education, and contact info all present and in typical sections?
- Keyword matching: Do your job titles, skills, and achievements match words that show up in target job listings?
- Formatting: Are bullets, headings, dates, and job responsibilities in clear, straightforward text?
Example 3:
Shelly applies as a marketing specialist. She used language like “brand promotion” and “digital campaigns,” which are common keywords in marketing job ads. The checker detects these keywords and gives her a higher ATS score, suggesting she is well-matched for the role.
Example 4:
Carlos’s resume lists his skills at the end in a graphic format, with colored bars instead of words. The checker does not recognize these bars as skills, reducing his ATS match. When he replaces the graphic section with a bulleted text list, the checker picks up all his skills, boosting his score.
Example 5:
Anita, applying to tech jobs, uses a template where dates of employment are in tiny light gray font, making them hard to read. The ATS checker misses several job periods, flagging an incomplete work history. She switches the dates to bold black type under each job entry, which the checker then identifies correctly.
Enhancv’s tool not only rates but also gives suggestions on how to change or improve missing sections, weak keywords, or poor formatting. This real-time feedback lets job seekers make immediate fixes—such as adding missing skills, reorganizing sections, or changing format—so their resume will fare better not only in the Enhancv checker, but with the majority of ATS systems used by employers.
Practical Checklist for ATS Success:
- Include standard section headings such as “Experience,” “Education,” and “Skills”
- Use clear, simple fonts (Arial, Calibri, or Times New Roman)
- Avoid inserting skills, job titles, or personal details inside images or graphics
- Spell out months and years clearly for employment dates
- Mirror keywords directly from the job posting
Many job seekers also improve their chances by using RoboApply to auto-apply to jobs across platforms and to create a professional cover letter to pair with their ATS-ready resumes. This end-to-end approach not only boosts your ATS score but helps you stand out to recruiters right from the start.
Following these steps makes it easier for both Enhancv’s Resume Checker and applicant tracking systems to read and fairly score your application, giving you a strong advantage during early stages of hiring.
Our AI Resume Checker Looks Deeper Than Spelling and Grammar
Upgrade Your Resume with Smart AI Tools
Artificial intelligence can quickly scan and improve your resume. With the latest AI systems, like ChatGPT 4, job seekers can now rewrite parts of their resume to better fit any job ad. This technology understands both your experience and the job requirements, then gives practical ways to showcase your hard and soft skills, change your resume summary, and trim filler words or clichés.
Below is a quick example showing how AI can rewrite a resume summary to make it more attractive to employers:
Old Resume Summary:
Results-oriented professional with years of experience. Responsible for many tasks and always looking to grow with the company.
AI-Optimized Resume Summary:
Motivated marketing specialist with over 5 years leading campaigns that increased brand awareness by 30%. Skilled in digital strategy, content creation, and cross-functional teamwork, eager to bring proven results to a growing company.
AI resume tools also recommend extra skills relevant to your industry and suggest better word choices. This helps you avoid repetitive language and make each section count. For those who want to go deeper, tools like RoboApply can help optimize your resume further, or you can create a professional cover letter that matches your job search documents.
Check If Your Resume Will Pass Automated Job Scans
Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) are what many companies use before a human looks at your resume. An AI-powered resume checker can analyze your file type (PDF or DOCX), check for missing keywords, and spot formatting issues that may confuse an ATS.
Key points an ATS checker looks for:
- Are all sections like contact info, education, and work experience organized?
- Did you use keywords and skills from the job listing?
- Is the file type readable (PDF or DOCX, not RTF)?
- Are fonts and formatting simple enough for the system?
The checker rates your resume’s ATS compatibility and gives step-by-step advice to improve. For instance, if your resume lacks keywords like “project management” for a manager role, you might get a suggestion to add related USPs and measurable results.
Example of AI Feedback:
Your resume is missing key skills found in the job ad, such as “cross-team leadership” and “budget forecasting.” Add concrete examples of when you used these skills in your past roles.
Use a Modern Resume Builder for Stronger Applications
A resume builder with built-in AI saves time by offering ready-to-use templates and suggestions. You can drag and drop sections, change headings, and personalize your file for each job you apply to. Improvements include help with bullet point phrasing, resume format, and soft skills you might otherwise miss.
Also, you can switch between file types (PDF, DOCX) and get a preview of how your resume will look on different devices or applicant tracking systems. Industry best practices are followed, so the result is a resume that hiring managers find organized and easy to read.
Complete Resume Example (Word-Ready):
John Smith
john.smith@email.com | (555) 123-4567
New York, NY
Professional Summary
Organized sales leader with 6 years’ experience growing territory sales by 25%. Skilled in relationship-building, presentations, and data-driven sales strategies.
Skills
- Customer Relationship Management
- Data Analysis
- Presentation Development
- Lead Generation
Work Experience
Sales Associate, ABC Corp (2019-2024)
- Exceeded annual sales goals by 20% each year
- Managed client accounts worth $500,000+
- Delivered weekly sales presentations to 30+ prospects
Education
B.A. in Business Administration, NYU
Download a fully editable template or build your resume with RoboApply to get an instant score and more suggestions.
Receive Your Resume Strength Score Instantly
With an AI-powered score, you receive detailed feedback on your resume’s strengths and areas needing improvement. The system emails you a tasklist with measurable suggestions like:
- Add missing resume sections (summary, education)
- Cut long bullet points for readability
- Fix spelling mistakes and punctuation
- Boost relevant soft and hard skills
Simply upload your PDF or DOCX (up to 2MB) to get started. Every suggestion aims to help job seekers land more interviews by improving resume clarity, keyword alignment, and section completeness.
Applicants can revisit their results and make quick edits before applying to more jobs. This process gives immediate, actionable feedback and helps you auto-apply to jobs across platforms. For tailored cover letters, use RoboApply’s tool to create a professional cover letter that matches your new, optimized resume.
A Resume Reflects Your Identity – Create One That Highlights What Makes You Unique
A person’s resume does more than list past jobs. It is a snapshot of skills, experience, personality, and readiness for new opportunities. Recruiters often see hundreds of resumes, but those that feel personal and purposeful always stand out. When a candidate “shows who they are” in both content and style, it helps recruiters picture them in the role.
How to Make Your Resume a True Reflection of Yourself
To make a resume that is unique to you, consider these steps:
- Write achievements and not just responsibilities for every role.
- Use action verbs and measurable results to show impact.
- Adjust the resume for each job application, highlighting the most relevant experience and skills.
- Make sure your education, skills, and even interests fit the culture of the workplace.
- Add unpaid work, internships, or projects that show your drive, especially if you’re just starting out.
Clear, simple formatting is important. Resume checkers can scan for errors in grammar, layout, and missing sections, giving you a quick way to polish before sending it out. Having your document checked is not just about catching mistakes but about making sure your whole resume feels consistent and gives the right impression.
Use Tools to Fine-Tune Your Resume
Online tools like Jobscan’s ATS Checker or the RoboApply resume builder guide you to use relevant keywords and keep your formatting readable. These steps make your resume more likely to pass automated scans and get in front of real people.
A resume checker breaks down your resume by sections and lets you know where things could be clearer or stronger. While scores can help, the main goal is better content and a more confident story about your career and skills.
Example 1: Resume Highlighting What Makes You Distinct
Below is a copy-ready resume example for someone applying to a marketing coordinator job. This template includes measurable accomplishments, a tailored skills section, and shows the applicant’s personality through their achievements and activities.
Anna Lopez
annalopez@email.com | linkedin.com/in/annalopez | (000) 123-4567
Professional Summary
Creative marketing coordinator with 3+ years of experience in digital campaigns, brand storytelling, and analytics. Known for strong project management, building cross-team connections, and bringing new ideas to life.
Experience
Marketing Associate
TechSolutions Inc., Boston, MA
March 2022 – Present
- Managed digital ad projects with $250,000 combined budget, achieving a 35% boost in audience engagement.
- Coordinated launch events with teams from sales and product, increasing attendance by 21%.
- Built reports using Google Analytics to track improvements in web traffic and social growth.
Skills
- Campaign planning and execution
- Analytical thinking
- Social media strategy
- Adobe Creative Suite
Education
B.S. in Marketing
Northeastern University, 2021
Volunteer Work
- Social Media Manager, Boston Animal Rescue. Grew page followers by 900+ in six months.
Interests
Photography, hiking, podcasting about youth entrepreneurship
Making Your Resume Fit Every Job Posting
Every job has a slightly different description of what they’re looking for. Smart candidates tweak their resume for each job they apply to. They match the job description by choosing keywords that show up in the posting, and they highlight the skills that fit that role. Double-checking matching skills, responsibilities, achievements, and even using the same job title where possible can make a difference.
Build Your Resume for ATS and Recruiters
Many companies use software that scans resumes—called applicant tracking systems (ATS)—before a person ever sees them. To get past these software filters and reach real recruiters, include keywords from the job posting, keep formatting clean, and use standard headings like “Experience” and “Education.”
Using a strong resume scanner or the resume review process at RoboApply helps discover missing keywords and highlight gaps, giving you steps to make your resume more competitive. For more complex roles, it can help to optimize your resume further.
Example 2: Technical Resume for a Software Developer
Samuel Lee
samlee.dev@email.com | linkedin.com/in/samlee | (333) 555-0912
Profile
Software developer with a focus on full-stack projects, hands-on coding, and automated testing. Led a team to deliver web tools used by 1,200+ clients globally.
Work Experience
Junior Developer
FinHub Technologies, Remote
June 2021 – May 2023
- Coded and tested three new SaaS products that lowered client onboarding time by 40%.
- Integrated payment API, decreasing manual errors by 80%.
- Set up code review routines to improve team efficiency.
Technical Skills
Python, React.js, SQL, Docker, Git, REST APIs
Education
B.S. in Computer Science
University of Washington, 2021
Projects
- Created a budgeting app for college students, downloaded 2,000+ times.
Extracurriculars
- Coding mentor, Code for Youth summer program
Tips for Creating a Resume That Feels Personal and Professional
When writing a resume that truly represents you, avoid common mistakes that can turn off potential employers. Simple steps make a big difference:
- Proofread every section carefully and correct spelling and grammar mistakes.
- Avoid empty buzzwords like “self-motivated” or “go-getter” that don’t show any clear evidence.
- List specific achievements that use numbers or results.
- Organize experience chronologically, with clear job titles and employment dates.
- Keep in mind cultural fit—show hobbies or projects if they relate to the company values.
- Use a checklist so you don’t skip important information.
Checklist Table: Must-Have Resume Elements
Section | What to Include | Why it Matters |
---|---|---|
Contact | Email, phone, LinkedIn, location | Recruiters contact you easily |
Summary/Objective | Key strengths, unique qualities | Instant snapshot for recruiters |
Experience | Roles, dates, achievements | Shows what you’ve done |
Skills | Job-relevant skills/technologies | Matches the job description |
Education | Degrees, years, institutions | Proves qualifications |
Projects | Key personal/professional projects | More proof of capability |
Other | Volunteering, hobbies, languages | Shows personality and fit |
Make sure your LinkedIn profile is up to date and matches your resume—recruiters often cross-check both. If a cover letter is required, use clear examples of experience that match the job and the company’s values. You can create a professional cover letter free with RoboApply, keeping tone and details specific for each application.
Example 3: Cover Letter to Pair with Your Resume
Dear Hiring Manager,
I am excited to apply for the Customer Success Specialist position at BrightEdge Corp. My experience working with large customer accounts and developing onboarding materials matches what you seek in the job listing.
At my previous role with CareConnect, I improved new user satisfaction scores by 18% through updated email guides and webinars. My strengths in communication and analyzing customer feedback have helped me increase retention and find solutions quickly.
BrightEdge’s focus on innovation interests me. I have led group workshops on using new SaaS tools, and regularly share tips with team members. I believe my background and passion for helping customers solve complex problems make me a strong fit.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
Jessica Grant
Why Tailoring Each Application Helps
Candidates who change their application for every job usually reach more interviews. They look for details in the job post—such as skills, achievements, or software knowledge—and include those in their application. This simple habit helps catch the attention of recruiters and shows care in the process.
It helps to use resume tools that let you edit and compare versions, or to build your resume with RoboApply for maximum control.
Example 4: Entry-Level Resume with Volunteer Experience
Lucy Kim
lucykim@email.com | linkedin.com/in/lucykim | (444) 222-7654
Career Objective
Recent graduate excited to start a career in education support. Known for organization, patience, and creative instructional design.
Experience
Volunteer Teaching Assistant
Springfield Public Library
Jan 2024 – Present
- Co-led weekly reading workshops for children, with feedback from parents and librarians.
- Helped develop a set of games to boost early reading skills.
Education
B.A. in English
State University, 2024
Skills
Lesson planning, team collaboration, time management
Achievements
- Awarded “Volunteer of the Month,” March 2024
Activities
- President, Creative Writing Club
Example 5: Resume for a Career Change
David Tran
dtran@email.com | linkedin.com/in/davidtran | (555) 987-6543
Summary Statement
Customer service manager transitioning to human resources. Experienced leader with a focus on employee engagement, mentoring, and process improvement.
Experience
Customer Service Supervisor
MetroCall, Dallas, TX
May 2022 – April 2025
- Managed team of 20, reduced turnover by 30% through monthly feedback sessions.
- Designed training that shorter onboarding by 10 days.
Education
Dip. in Human Resource Management, Online
Projects
- Led “Career Growth” workshops for team members interested in new roles
Skills
Training, interview scheduling, communication, data analysis
Key Takeaways for Building a Resume That Shows Your True Self
- Write clearly, focusing on results and unique experiences.
- Keep formatting simple and reader-friendly.
- Adapt every resume and cover letter for the job you want.
- Use resume checkers and tools like RoboApply to scan, edit, and auto-apply to jobs across platforms.
Choosing details that matter—and leaving out the rest—will help your resume stand out in any talent pool.
Frequently Asked Questions
Key Elements You Should Look for in a Resume Checking Tool
A strong resume checking tool will do more than just find typos. It should:
- Spot formatting problems: Looks for inconsistent fonts, margins, or layout issues.
- Check for keywords: Ensures your resume has the right words for the job description.
- Evaluate grammar and clarity: Helps fix unclear sentences or complex wording.
- Provide suggestions: Offers ways to make work experience and skills sections stronger.
- Show how applicant tracking systems (ATS) view your resume: Simulates how companies’ systems might read what you send.
Tip: Many platforms like RoboApply also help you create a professional cover letter with one click through their free cover letter tool at create a professional cover letter.
Ways to Tell If Your Resume Is Suitable for ATS
To check if your resume will work for ATS, follow these quick steps:
- Save as a Word or PDF file in a simple format (no columns or tables).
- Avoid images and fancy graphics, since ATS can’t always read them.
- Use standard fonts like Arial or Times New Roman.
- Include clear section headers such as “Experience” or “Education.”
- Make sure you match keywords listed in the job description.
If you want to be sure, you can use an ATS resume checker to scan your resume for possible issues.
Resume Analyzers with the Most Reliable Results
Some resume checking tools stand out for providing trusted, detailed feedback. Look for platforms that:
- Give clear explanations for each suggestion.
- Offer examples of improved writing.
- Allow you to test your resume against several job posts.
- Provide a score you can work to improve.
Teal’s ATS Resume Checker and Kickresume’s AI Resume Checker both offer full-featured scans and detailed suggestions. RoboApply’s resume scoring feature lets users optimize your resume before applying everywhere online.
What Is a Strong Score on a Resume Rating System?
Resume checkers usually grade resumes on a scale, often out of 100. A good score is usually above 75. This shows your resume is well-matched to the job, formatted clearly, and contains no major errors. Some systems use colors (green/yellow/red) to help you see if your resume needs work. If you get a lower score, focus on improving keywords and job-specific skills.
Here’s a quick breakdown:
Score Range | Meaning |
---|---|
80-100 | Excellent |
60-79 | Good/Average |
Below 60 | Needs work |
Do Free Resume Checking Tools Work as Well as Paid Versions?
Free resume checkers cover the basics like:
- Finding grammar issues
- Checking for formatting errors
- Scanning for keywords
However, paid tools may offer deeper feedback, such as personalized suggestions, advanced keyword matching, or one-on-one writing help. Many job seekers start with a free checker, then switch to paid for extra features. RoboApply offers many free tools, including job tracking and scoring, so users can optimize your resume without extra cost.
The Role of AI in Modern Resume Review Software
AI helps resume review tools by:
- Giving instant feedback and suggestions
- Matching your resume to hundreds of job descriptions
- Scanning for hard-to-find errors or missing keywords
- Suggesting ways to improve skills sections and work history
AI can even reword your experience bullets or highlight skills commonly missed by humans. Most leading checkers like Enhancv’s AI Resume Checking Tool and RoboApply use AI to increase accuracy and deliver actionable tips, helping job seekers build your resume with RoboApply that stands out.