Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know about using Resume Showdown's free resume analysis tools.
What is an ATS resume scan?
An ATS (Applicant Tracking System) resume scan is an automated process where software parses your resume to extract key information like skills, experience, and contact details. Most companies use ATS to filter candidates before human review. Our tool simulates this process to show how well your resume performs.
Does your tool store my resume?
No. Resume Showdown processes everything 100% client-side in your browser. Your resume never gets uploaded to our servers or stored in any database. Once you close the tab, all data is gone. We cannot access or see your resume at any time.
How does JD matching work?
Job Description (JD) matching compares your resume against a specific job posting. Our tool extracts keywords, required skills, and qualifications from the JD, then calculates how well your resume aligns with those requirements. You'll see missing keywords, skill gaps, and a match percentage.
How accurate is the AI authenticity checker?
Our AI authenticity checker analyzes language patterns, repetition, buzzword density, and specificity to detect AI-generated content. While no tool is perfect, it uses the same indicators recruiters look for when spotting AI-written resumes. It's a helpful guide, not a definitive judgment.
Do resumes get uploaded to a server?
No. All resume processing happens directly in your browser using JavaScript. Your files never leave your device. For advanced AI analysis, your resume content is sent directly from your browser to Google's Gemini API (if you provide your own API key), never through our servers.
What is a strong resume bullet?
A strong resume bullet is specific, quantified, and action-oriented. It should include what you did, how you did it, and the measurable result. Example: 'Reduced API response time by 40% (from 850ms to 510ms) by optimizing database queries and implementing Redis caching' — this shows action, method, and quantified impact.
What is a good ATS score?
ATS scores typically range from 0-100. A score of 70+ is considered good and means your resume is well-structured for automated parsing. Scores of 80+ are excellent. Scores below 60 indicate formatting or keyword issues that may cause automatic rejection.
Does formatting affect ATS?
Yes, significantly. Complex layouts (tables, multi-column designs, headers/footers), graphics, images, and unusual fonts can confuse ATS parsers. Stick to single-column layouts with standard section headers like 'Experience' and 'Education' for best results.
Can recruiters detect AI-generated resumes?
Yes. Experienced recruiters notice patterns like repetitive buzzwords, overly formal language, lack of specific details, and generic achievements. Our AI detector helps you identify these red flags before submitting your resume.
Can I compare two resumes?
Yes. Resume Showdown offers side-by-side resume comparison. Upload two resumes and get a detailed breakdown of which performs better across ATS scoring, keyword matching, bullet quality, and overall presentation.
Is this tool really free?
Yes, completely free. All basic features work without payment: ATS scoring, formatting analysis, keyword detection, resume comparison, and AI pattern detection. For advanced AI-powered recruiter insights, you can optionally bring your own free Gemini API key. No hidden fees or trials.
Will using my own API key cost money?
Google Gemini offers a generous free tier that covers most personal use. For typical resume analysis (a few scans per day), you'll likely stay within free limits. Heavy usage may incur minimal costs. You control your API key and can monitor usage in your Google Cloud console.
How is my data kept private?
Your resume is processed entirely in your browser. We don't have servers that store or process resumes. If you use AI features with your own API key, data goes directly from your browser to Google's API. Your API key is stored only in your browser cookies and never sent to our servers.
How often should I scan my resume?
Scan your resume whenever you're applying to a new role or updating your experience. Use the JD matcher for each specific job application to tailor keywords. Regular scans (every few months) help catch formatting issues or outdated skills.
What file types are supported?
We support plain text (.txt), Microsoft Word (.docx), and PDF (.pdf) files. For PDFs, ensure they contain selectable text (not scanned images). To test, try selecting and copying text from your PDF — if you can't, neither can our parser.
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