CV Glossary

Plain-English definitions of every template style and term used on ATSSA. Click any term in the footer to jump straight to it.

ATS Optimisation

"ATS" stands for Applicant Tracking System — software employers use to scan, parse, and rank CVs before a human ever sees them. ATS optimisation means writing your CV so the system can read every section, match the right keywords from the job advert, and rank you highly. ATSSA's score reflects how well your CV is likely to perform in such systems.

Reverse-Chronological CV

The most common and most ATS-friendly format. You list your most recent job first, then work backwards through your career. Best for candidates with steady, continuous work experience in the same field.

  • Use it if: you have a clear, consistent career path.
  • Sections in order: Personal Info → Summary → Work Experience → Education → Skills → References.

Combination CV

A blend of skills-based and chronological formats. Begins with a strong skills summary, followed by a chronological work history. Useful when your skills are as important as your experience.

  • Use it if: you are a mid-career professional or applying across industries.
  • Sections in order: Personal Info → Summary → Key Skills → Work Experience → Education.

Functional / Skills-Based CV

Focuses on what you can do rather than where you have worked. Groups your achievements under skill themes instead of by employer. Helpful for career changers, recent graduates, or candidates with employment gaps.

  • Use it if: you are changing careers, returning to work, or have limited formal experience.
  • Caution: some ATS systems prefer chronological structures — use sparingly.

Keywords

Specific terms drawn from the job advert (skills, qualifications, software, certifications). ATSSA highlights which keywords are matched and which are missing in your CV against the pasted job description.

ATS Score

A composite percentage out of 100 indicating how well your CV is likely to pass ATS screening for a given job. It blends keyword match, section completeness, content quality, and formatting.

POPIA

South Africa's Protection of Personal Information Act, 2013. ATSSA processes your data in accordance with POPIA. See our Privacy Policy.

B-BBEE

Broad-Based Black Economic Empowerment. Some South African employers ask candidates to declare race for B-BBEE reporting. This information is optional in your ATSSA profile.