Glossary
Image-Only PDF
A plain-English explanation of Image-Only PDF, why it matters in hiring, a concrete example, common misuse, related terms, and next steps.
Definition
A PDF file that contains only flat graphics/images with no selectable text layer.
Detailed Explanation
Commonly created when scanning a paper resume or exporting from design tools (like Photoshop or Canva) as flat images.
Why It Matters in Hiring
Image-only PDFs fail standard parsing, resulting in empty ATS search profiles.
Concrete Example
A resume PDF that does not allow you to search for keywords or highlight individual words.
Common Misconception
Saving an image file with a .pdf extension does not make it machine-readable.
When It Does Not Apply
Applies to flat image exports; does not apply to native vector PDFs.
Related Glossary Terms
Convert image-only PDF to native text in the Builder.
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