Evidence labels

How claims are classified
LabelMeaningExample
DocumentedA primary source states the behavior.Workday lists supported resume file types.
ObservedWe can inspect the public product or exported content.A template uses one visible content column.
Risk controlA conservative recommendation follows from a known failure mode.Keep essential contact data out of headers.
UnverifiedA vendor claim lacks enough public test detail.A template passes every ATS.

Builder review criteria

  • Documented export formats and free-plan limits.
  • Whether core resume data is stored in structured fields or a free-form canvas.
  • Availability of a plain, single-column template.
  • Dependence on icons, text boxes, charts, or images for meaning.
  • Ability to verify extracted text and reading order.
  • Date of the last product check and links to official sources.

What we do not score

We do not publish a universal numeric ATS score. We do not convert marketing claims into test results. We do not infer interview rates from document structure.

Planned parser test protocol

The research section publishes a protocol before results. Each test document will use controlled content, one changed variable, stored source files, recorded tool versions, and expected fields. Results will name the parser or ATS account used.

  • Baseline single-column DOCX and native-text PDF.
  • Two-column, table, header, footer, and text-box variants.
  • Unicode punctuation, ligatures, and non-Latin samples.
  • Image-only PDF plus an OCR version.
  • Field accuracy and reading-order checks recorded separately.
References

Sources used on this page

  1. Unsuccessful resume parseGreenhouse Support

    Documents parse failures, a 2.5 MB parsing limit, and layout-related errors.

  2. Concept: Candidate Skills MatchWorkday Documentation

    Documents an optional skills-match feature, its supported files, and its Strong to Low labels.

  3. Resume Parser FieldsRChilli Documentation

    Shows the structured fields a commercial parser can return, including experience, education, contact details, and skills.

  4. What you may be missing when you search PDF documentsPDF Association

    Demonstrates how PDF content order can differ from the order visible on the page.