ATS Guide

Why Two-Column Resumes Fail ATS (And How to Fix Them)

Two-column resumes look beautiful to humans. However, they are terrible for ATS bots. In fact, dual-column designs are one of the main reasons resumes get automatically rejected. First, you must understand why they fail. Then, you can fix the issue using a proper ATS CV builder. You can test your current layout right now using our free ATS CV test tool.

Why Do Two-Column Resumes Fail ATS?

To understand the problem, you must know how bots read. ATS systems read text from left to right. Furthermore, they read top to bottom. Therefore, a two-column layout completely breaks their reading order. If you want to avoid this, you should create your ATS CV for free using a single-column structure.

The Left-to-Right Reading Rule

When an ATS sees two columns, it does not read them separately. Instead, it reads across both columns at once. For example, it reads your name, then your skills, then your job title, then your email. As a result, your text becomes a scrambled mess of words. To fix this, use an ATS-friendly CV builder to keep text linear.

The Sidebar Problem

Most two-column templates use a sidebar for skills and contact info. However, ATS systems often ignore sidebars completely. Consequently, your most important skills might vanish. If the bot cannot find your skills, it assumes you do not have them. That is why it is safer to download our ATS CV builder and place skills in the main body.

The Danger of Text Boxes and Tables

Why do builders use two columns? Usually, they use invisible tables or text boxes to create the layout. Unfortunately, ATS systems hate tables and text boxes. Next, the bot tries to read the table and fails. Thus, your score drops instantly.

If your current template uses text boxes, you need to rebuild it. Fortunately, you can create a clean layout using a dedicated ATS-friendly CV builder instead of fighting with Word formatting.

How to Fix a Two-Column Resume

Do you need to start over? Yes, you do. However, fixing it is very easy, especially if you create your ATS CV for free using our tools. Here are the steps to make your resume ATS-friendly.

1. Switch to a Single-Column Layout

First, change your document to a single column. This ensures the bot reads your text in the correct order. Therefore, your experience stays intact. Keep your margins standard and your text left-aligned. The easiest way to do this is to use an ATS CV builder that formats it for you.

2. Move Skills to the Main Body

Next, take your skills out of the sidebar. Instead, list them under a standard “Skills” heading. Furthermore, use simple bullet points. This guarantees the bot will find and categorize your abilities. You can easily arrange this when you create your ATS CV for free on our platform.

3. Remove All Tables

Finally, delete any tables in your document. Even invisible tables will break the parser. For instance, if you used a table to align your dates, remove it. Then, simply type your dates next to your job title. To avoid tables entirely, download our free ATS CV builder today.

When Can You Use a Two-Column Resume?

Is there ever a good time to use two columns? Yes, there is. For example, you can use them for hand-delivered resumes. Furthermore, they work well for internal promotions or portfolio-based creative jobs.

However, for any online application, you must use a single column. In short, always play it safe with online portals. It is best to create your ATS CV for free to ensure it passes the bots.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can ATS read two-column resumes?

Most ATS systems cannot read two-column resumes properly. The text gets scrambled because bots read left-to-right across the whole page. Therefore, a single-column layout is much safer. You can easily build one using our ATS CV builder.

Do ATS systems read columns?

Most do not. They read text linearly. If you use columns, the bot mixes your job titles with your skills. As a result, your data becomes unreadable. To avoid this, create your ATS CV for free using a linear format.

Are two-column resumes bad for ATS?

Yes, they are very risky. While they look nice to humans, they often fail ATS parsers. It is better to use a single-column layout for online applications. Test your current layout with our free ATS CV test tool to see if it breaks.

How do I make a two-column resume ATS friendly?

You usually cannot. The best way is to convert it into a single-column format. Remove all tables and text boxes. Then, move your skills to the main body. The easiest way to fix this is to download our free ATS CV builder.

Conclusion

In conclusion, two-column resumes are deadly for ATS systems. They scramble text and hide your skills. Therefore, you must switch to a single-column layout. By doing this, you ensure your resume reaches a human. If you need a reliable template, use our free ATS CV builder right now.

Before applying, run your CV through our Free ATS Resume Scanner. If your layout fails, create your ATS CV for free to fix the issue instantly.