Retrieving data from line item tables in invoices and other documents can often consume a significant amount of time and is susceptible to errors. However, with Affinda's 'Magic Table' capabilities to extract data from line items, this part of the process is easier than ever before.

Importantly, with Affinda's "Magic Table" capabilities, data in a semi-structured format can be extracted from tables so that customers are no longer constrained to grid-like, highly structured data.

It's a simple process with powerful capabilities thanks to the 'magic fill' algorithm that drives the extraction of data from tables:

1. If required, draw a new table
2. Confirm or edit the rows in the table
3. Confirm or edit the fields within the first row
4. Our 'magic fill' algorithm will apply itself to the rest of the rows based on the confirmed data in the first row
5. Confirm the next rows until all the data is correct

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1. Creation of new tables

In most invoices & receipts, Affinda's AI model will recognize the line item table within the document when initially processed. To validate these table predictions, simply click the rectangle that covers the line item table. The table validation tool will then open up and the data can be edited and validated.

However, in other cases, users may need to draw a new table. To do this, simply use the tool to create a rectangle around the entire table area and select "Line Item Table" from the dropdown. Our model will then make some predictions which can then be edited and validated.

2. Editing rows

Column dividers can be edited in three ways:

1. Removing dividers - Move the cursor to the left of the table where an existing divider appears and the row will turn 'red' to remove a row divider
2. Adding new dividers - Move the cursor to the left of the table until a blue line with a '+' appears
3. Changing the location of dividers - Select the purple divider and move to the desired location

With 'Magic fill' enabled, adjusting a single row may cause changes to other rows. This can be disabled where required. See below for more information on 'Magic fill'.

3. Confirming and editing fields within a row

Once the rows have been set, the specific fields within the row can be reviewed.

To adjust the fields in the row, we recommend simply drawing a new rectangle around your target like you would on any other field in the document and selecting the desired type.

Alternatively, if data point has been selected but classified as the wrong type, users can simply change the type by selecting the dropdown.

Once all fields in the row are correct, simply click 'Confirm' and move on to the next row.

Magic fill

'Magic fill' is the term used to describe the process where validated data in a row is then applied to the rows below the confirmed row in the table. This reduces the amount of manual intervention required to ensure accurate data from a table.

Magic fill can be disabled by adjusting the toggle in the table editor located at the bottom of the page.