Most resume advice optimizes for humans. ATS software scans first — and rejects on keyword gaps, not design taste.
Three fixes that move the needle:
- Mirror exact phrases from the job description in experience bullets — not just the skills list.
- Use a single-column layout. Two-column Canva templates often parse as garbage.
- Run a keyword gap check before submit. Missing 3–5 high-priority terms is more common than "broken PDF" myths.
Full checklist + examples:
https://resumecrafterai.com/blog/ats-friendly-resume-guide#2026-ats-rejection-checklist
Free ATS score against a real job description:
https://resumecrafterai.com/ats-checker
