How to Add the Right Resume Keywords for ATS

Keywords help ATS systems match your resume to a job description. The goal is to match the right terms without sounding robotic.

Where to Find Keywords

• Job description responsibilities
• Required skills and tools
• Certifications and industry terms

Where to Place Keywords

• Skills section
• Experience bullet points
• Summary and headline

Avoid Keyword Stuffing

Keywords must read naturally. Instead of repeating terms, use variations and context.

Example

Job description: “SQL, Python, data visualization, dashboards”

Resume bullet: “Built Python data pipelines and SQL dashboards to improve reporting accuracy.”

Quick Keyword Checklist

• 8–12 relevant keywords per role
• Top keywords appear at least once
• Skills section mirrors job post

Use SayItBetter to rewrite bullet points so keywords fit naturally.

Next Steps

Try the Resume Checker and join the Resume/ATS waitlist for early access.