CV stands for Curriculum Vitae which is an outline of your educational and professional history. It can convey your personal details in the way that represents you in the best possible light. There is no ‘right way’ to construct a CV and though a good CV has plenty of scope for you to bring out elements in your character and personality, there are certain ‘essential’ details that need to be included:

• Personal Details
• Education and Qualifications
• Work Experience
• Interests and Achievements
• Skills
• Referees

The order in which you present these, and the emphasis which you give to each one, will depend on what you are applying for and what you have to offer. A personal profile at the start of the CV can sometimes be effective, but if used, it needs to be original and well written.

In order to ensure that what you are putting together is correct you need to ensure that your CV addresses the following:

• It is targeted toward the specific career area for which you are applying and enhances the relevant skills you have to offer
• It is carefully and clearly laid out
• It is informative but concise
• It is accurate in content, spelling and grammar

How long should a CV be?
There are no absolute rules on this but, in general, a CV should cover no more than two sides of A4 paper.

How should it look?
Your CV should be carefully and clearly laid out - not too cramped but not with large empty spaces either. Never back a CV - each page should be on a separate sheet of paper. It's a good idea to put your name in the footer area so that it appears on each sheet.

Be concise
A CV is an appetiser and should not give the reader indigestion. Don't feel that you have to list every exam you have ever taken, or every activity you have ever been involved in - consider which are the most relevant and/or impressive.

Be positive
Put yourself over confidently and highlight your strong points. For example, when listing your A-levels, put your highest grade first.

Be honest
You should never give inaccurate or misleading information.

Different Types of CV

Chronological - outlining your career history in date order, normally beginning with the most recent items (reverse chronological). This is the 'conventional' approach and the easiest to prepare. It is detailed, comprehensive and biographical.

Skills-based - highly-focused CVs which relate your skills and abilities to a specific job or career area by highlighting these skills and your major achievements.