Finding a job in today’s competitive market is tough. To make things more complicated, many companies now rely on AI resume screening tools to filter applications. If your resume isn’t formatted correctly, it might be rejected—even if you’re the perfect candidate.
A big question many job seekers ask is this: Do tables trip up AI resume Scrinners? Here’s everything you need to know about how AI reads resumes, whether tables are ATS (Applicant Tracking System) friendly, and how to optimize your resume to make it AI-ready.
Are Tables in Resumes ATS-Friendly?
Tables can be tricky in an ATS. While they might make your resume look clean or structured to human eyes, they can confuse some AI screeners. Here’s how it works.
Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) are designed to scan and parse resumes by extracting information like skills, work history, and education. Many ATS tools are programmed to interpret standard text formats, but adding tables can create roadblocks.
For example:
A table might split your content into multiple columns. While human recruiters can read and understand this layout, AI might misinterpret the formatting, jumble the information, or skip crucial details altogether.
When are Tables Okay?
Some modern ATS systems can handle simple tables, especially with single rows and columns. For example, using a table to organize your contact information can be okay in certain situations. However, it’s best to keep tables minimal and ensure they don’t disrupt how the ATS scans your resume.
When Should You Avoid Them?
- Complex tables or multi-column designs: These can break your resume structure when processed by ATS.
- Nested data: If you embed tables within tables or combine them with images, the ATS might fail to interpret the content.
- Critical information placement: Avoid putting essential details like job titles, dates, or core skills inside tables—it might get lost or misread.
Can You Trick AI Resume Screenings?
The short answer? Not really.
Some people try stuffing keywords in white-text fonts (so they’re hidden on the resume) or overloading their resumes with inflated skills. Unfortunately, ATS tools are becoming more intelligent and can detect these tricks.
Here are a few reasons why “tricking the system” doesn’t work:
- Keyword stuffing: ATS algorithms flag keyword stuffing as spam. This means your resume might be penalized rather than favoured.
- Irrelevance filters: AI tools crosscheck your listed skills with job descriptions, so skills that don’t fit the role might be ignored completely.
- Human verification: Many resumes pass through a hiring manager after an ATS review. If they spot exaggerated accomplishments, it can hurt your credibility.
Ultimately, optimize your resume to align with its principles instead of trying to trick the AI.
Are Tables Good for Resumes?
Tables have their place, but here’s how to weigh the pros and cons.
Pros of Tables in Resumes:
- Better organization: Tables can help structure information cleanly. For instance, they can showcase bullet points under columns for “Skills” or “Certifications.”
- Visual appeal: Tables make complex data easier for human readers to digest, such as when presenting numerical achievements.
Cons of Tables in Resumes:
- Parsing errors: Tables may lead to misinterpretation of text fields, especially in older ATS systems.
- Risk of skipped data: ATS may ignore text inside tables, affecting the accuracy of your application.
Pro Tip: If you’re using tables, keep them simple, and never place essential information inside one. Ensure your most relevant skills and experience are readable outside any table format.
Can Companies Detect AI-Generated Text in Resumes?
With the rise of AI tools that help job seekers generate resumes, there’s another question gaining traction today—can companies detect AI-written resumes?
While not all ATS systems can specifically flag AI text yet, companies are developing such tools. This could hurt your chances of standing out as a genuine candidate if detected.
For now, the best strategy is to use AI tools as helpers rather than replacements. For instance:
- Use them to generate formatting ideas or suggestions.
- Edit and personalize the resume to reflect your authentic story.
Avoid submitting resumes that appear overly generic or templated, as recruiters can quickly spot resumes that lack human touch or personal details.
How to Pass AI Resume Screening
Now that you understand how ATS screeners work, here are practical steps to make your resume stand out.
Use ATS-Friendly Formats
Stick to common file types like Word documents (.docx) or simple PDFs. Avoid designs with excessive graphics, colours, or overlapping elements.
Optimize Keywords Strategically
Carefully study the job description and incorporate relevant keywords—especially hard skills and certifications—throughout your resume. Place these naturally within the text rather than forcing them in a specific area.
Use Standard Fonts and Formatting
Stick to easy-to-read fonts like Arial, Calibri, or Times New Roman. Ensure your headers (e.g., “Work Experience”) follow conventional naming rules. Simple bullet points are more ATS-friendly than creative icons or non-standard layouts.
Keep Content Linear
List your work experience, education, and skills chronologically. Avoid splitting content into columns or mixing it up in unconventional arrangements.
Test Your Resume for ATS Readability
Before submission, upload your document to free ATS analyzer tools. These tools simulate ATS screening and offer suggestions for improving your format or content alignment.
Avoid Overcomplicated Tables
If using tables, try breaking down the information and incorporating it into linear text instead. However, if you need tables, keep them simple and well-structured.
How Reddit Users Handle AI-Resume Concerns
The career advice subreddits on Reddit are filled with discussions on navigating AI resume screening. Many users recommend creating two resumes—one ATS-friendly version for online submissions and one visually impressive version for human reviewers.
Key tips from Redditers include:
- Tailor every resume submission for a specific job.
- Rely on free online tools like Jobscan to ensure your resume is optimized.
- Avoid overthinking small formatting details and focus on the content instead.
Your AI Resume Checklist
Use this simple checklist to ensure your resume passes AI screenings:
- [ ] Is my resume free of complex layouts, multi-columns, and images?
- [ ] Are keywords naturally integrated throughout the resume?
- [ ] Is my file saved in an ATS-preferred format (.docx or PDF)?
- [ ] Are important sections like “Work Experience” and “Education” clearly labelled?
- [ ] Have I tested my resume with an ATS scanner?
Make Your Resume AI-Approved Today
AI resume screeners are here to stay but don’t have to be a barrier. Creating ATS-friendly resumes and focusing on clarity, keywords, and structure will boost your chances of landing that dream job.
Remember, crafting a resume is about finding the perfect balance between presenting quality content, appealing design, and AI-readability. For more tips, consult free ATS tools online and keep refining until you’re confident your application will pass the first round.
Michelle Yeoh