Top ATS Keywords for Your Resume in 2025
Over 75% of resumes are rejected before a human ever sees them — all because of Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS). These systems scan for specific keywords from the job description. If your resume lacks those keywords, you’re out. This guide shows you the most important ATS keywords to include in 2025, organized by skill type and industry.
High-Impact ATS Keyword Categories
- communication
- teamwork
- leadership
- time management
- critical thinking
- adaptability
- managed
- developed
- implemented
- optimized
- analyzed
- delivered
- reduced cost by X%
- increased revenue
- saved time
- improved efficiency
- exceeded targets
Industry-Specific ATS Keywords (2025)
- Python
- JavaScript
- Git
- REST APIs
- Agile methodology
- AWS
- Docker
- SQL
- Excel
- Tableau
- Python
- machine learning
- data visualization
- SQL
- A/B testing
- SEO
- content strategy
- Google Analytics
- campaign management
- brand positioning
- conversion rate optimization
- patient care
- HIPAA compliance
- EHR systems
- diagnostics
- treatment planning
- charting
- curriculum design
- lesson planning
- classroom management
- assessment
- differentiated instruction
How to Use These Keywords Effectively
- Read the Job Description: Highlight words and phrases that appear 2–3 times.
- Match Your Resume Naturally: Add keywords to your summary, skills section, and experience bullet points.
- Don’t keyword stuff: Use each word 1–2 times unless highly relevant.
- Use a resume optimization tool: Upload your resume to ResumeEditorAI and we’ll scan for keyword gaps automatically.
Mistakes to Avoid
- Stuffing your resume with keywords out of context
- Hiding keywords in white text (you’ll get flagged)
- Copy-pasting the job description word-for-word
- Using outdated or vague terms (e.g., “hard worker”, “go-getter”)
Need Help? Try ResumeEditorAI
Upload your resume and job description, and our AI will highlight missing keywords, rewrite weak sections and format your resume for ATS compatibility.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What are ATS keywords?
They are words and phrases from a job description that an Applicant Tracking System looks for to determine resume relevance.
Should I copy all keywords into my resume?
No — include only those that match your real experience. Use them naturally in your resume sections.
How do I find the right ATS keywords?
Read the job description, and use ResumeEditorAI or Jobscan to extract relevant keywords automatically.