CSV Table Viewer Guide: Aligned Text Tables
Learn how column widths are calculated so values line up in plain text.
What is the CSV Table Viewer?
This tool parses CSV properly, including quoted fields that contain commas, then prints the data as a text table. Columns are separated by a vertical bar with spaces around it, the first row is treated as the header, and a dash separator sits below the header. Each column is padded to the width of its longest cell, so values line up down the page. It is a plain-text view for quick reading, not a spreadsheet, so sorting, filtering and editing are not included.
How to use it
- Paste your CSV into the box.
- Click View as Table.
- Read the aligned table.
Worked example
For the sample, the viewer prints a header row with name, age and city, a dash separator, and two aligned rows, with Smith, John kept as one name cell despite its comma.
Why pad columns to the longest cell?
Because equal widths are what make a text table readable. Without padding, values drift and the eye cannot follow a column down the page.
Frequently asked questions
Is the first row always the header?
Yes. The tool treats the first row as the header and puts the separator below it.
Can I sort or edit the table?
No. This is a plain-text viewer for quick reading; use a spreadsheet for sorting and editing.