You've built your resume, but how do you know if ATS can actually read it? There are several methods to verify ATS compatibility, ranging from quick manual checks to comprehensive automated scoring. Using multiple methods gives you the highest confidence.
Method 1 — Use an ATS Score Checker (most reliable): Upload your resume along with the target job description to an ATS scoring tool. Resume-maker.in's free ATS checker analyzes your resume against the JD and provides a percentage match score, identifies missing keywords, flags formatting issues, and suggests specific improvements. Aim for a score of 75% or above for the best chances of passing ATS screening.
Method 2 — The Plain Text Test (quick manual check): Open your resume PDF, select all text (Ctrl+A), copy (Ctrl+C), and paste into a plain text editor like Notepad. If all your text appears in the correct order and is fully readable, your resume is likely ATS-parseable. If text is jumbled, out of order, or missing, there are formatting issues that ATS will also encounter.
Method 3 — The Google Docs Test: Upload your resume to Google Docs and check how it renders. If formatting is preserved and text is in the correct order, the resume structure is stable. This test is less reliable than an ATS checker but useful as a supplementary check.
Method 4 — Manual Checklist: Go through these items: No tables or text boxes? No images or graphics in the body? Standard fonts used? Section headings are standard (Experience, Skills, Education)? Contact info is in the body, not header/footer? File is PDF or DOCX? No special characters that might cause parsing issues? If all checks pass, your resume is likely ATS-compatible.