Free ATS CV checker
Find missing keywords and common CV text issues before you apply.
No sign-upRuns in your browserPlain-text checks
Runs in your browser. Nothing you paste is sent to Honde or anyone else.
What it checks, and why
- KeywordsFinds important keywords from the job advert that your CV doesn't mention.
- Headings & contact detailsChecks for standard headings like profile or summary, and for an email address and phone number.
- Dates & lengthReviews date formats and highlights if your CV is very short or very long.
Recruiters search their ATS for the advert's words, so a CV that says "bookkeeping" can be missed in a search for "accounts payable". Software uses the headings to tell your jobs from your qualifications, and mixed date formats make it harder to work out how long you were in each job.
Example report
Here's an example of the kind of feedback you'll get. Your results will depend on your CV and the job advert.
Example report
- Standard headings foundProfile, work experience, education and skills.
- Use consistent datesSome dates use a different format. Keep them consistent (e.g. Mar 2021 or 03/2021).
- Compare advert keywordsYour CV is missing some keywords from the job advert, such as “bookkeeping” and “reconciliations”.
Checks text, not document layout. A score does not guarantee an interview.
How to use it
- 1Paste your CVCopy the text of your CV from Word, Google Docs or a PDF and paste it into the first box, or open it as a .txt file.
- 2Add the job advert (optional)Paste the advert you're applying for into the second box. The duties and requirements matter most.
- 3Check your CVPress Check my CV. The score and what to improve appear below the boxes. Fix what's true of you and check again.
Frequently asked questions
Is my CV uploaded or stored?
Do I need an account?
What is an ATS?
Does a high score mean I'll get an interview?
Should I copy every missing word into my CV?
Why can't I open a Word or PDF file?
How is the score worked out?
What it can't check
It reads plain text, so it can't see your layout: tables, columns, text boxes, icons and pictures can scramble or hide text when an ATS reads the file itself. Keep the layout to one column with plain headings. Each ATS works differently, and the checker matches words, not meaning. For the rest of the advice, read how to write an ATS-friendly CV.
Find jobs that fit your CV.
Honde ranks new South African jobs against your CV every morning, and on paid plans gives each one a match score with the requirements you meet and the gaps.