How many columns of text should you use when formatting your résumé to be easily scanned by AI filters?
A) Three
B) One
C) Two
D) Four

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

In order to allow the artificial intelligence (AI) algorithm to locate the pertinent credentials in your résumé and job application, implement the following practices:
1. Format your materials for machine reading:
a. single column of text
b. standard fonts (e.g., Times, Arial) 
c. no italics
d. bulleted lists instead of tables
e. no pictorial elements
2. Find the keywords in the job notice that identify required skills or credentials and use these same keywords in your résumé and cover letter. Do not use these terms if they are not relevant to your experience and skills, but you should be applying to those positions that you are qualified for; thus, the key words should be relevant. In the résumé, use the keywords both when specifying your abilities and when listing your education and work history. Repeat these key words in the cover letter. 
3. Use the same nouns and adjectives that you find in the job notice to describe your abilities and accomplishments in your application materials. 
4. Use standard terms and familiar words to describe your credentials and job experience. Your degree might carry the official title of Information Architecture and Interactive Experience Design, but if the job notice specifies a degree in Technical Communication, you might list your degree as Technical Communication and include its official title in parentheses. 
5. Emphasize quantifiable results if possible: dollars earned, expenses saved, products manufactured, customers retained, etc. Algorithms are data-driven and a search for numerical information is simple and clear.
6. Make sure that the spelling and grammar are correct: AI filters easily find and readily report errors--all to the detriment of your application.

How Many Columns of Text Should You Use When Formatting