Author: Zuzana Kocáková

CV templates and pre-prepared templates are excellent tools that allow you to write this document in just a few minutes. However, to truly capture the attention of a future employer and secure your dream job, you must pay attention to several details and nuances. What are they, and what should you consider when writing a CV?

What is a CV?

A CV is one of the documents you will need when you decide to look for a new job. It contains basic information about you, your work experience, skills, education, hobbies, and interests, presenting you to a potential employer. Essentially, it is your “career in a nutshell” – a concise summary of your qualifications for the position you are applying for.

Writing a CV is not difficult, but it is important to pay close attention to grammar, style, formatting, and the information you include. Otherwise, you may fail to make a good first impression and could miss out on your desired job.

How CVs have changed over time

The term “curriculum vitae” is believed by experts to originate from the 15th century, with Leonardo da Vinci credited as its inventor. In 1482, he wrote a letter listing his abilities and sent it to Ludovico il Moro, the then Duke of Milan.

Even during the Renaissance, people recognized the importance of individual success and began presenting it to others. The first CVs were simple and unformatted. Skills, abilities, and work experience were listed in chronological order, and unlike modern CVs, they were not as concise.

Everything changed with the arrival of the 20th century when people began introducing standards and requirements for CVs. The primary reason was to simplify employee recruitment. The same century also saw a shift in CV creation, as handwritten documents were replaced by those typed on typewriters.

The last major change came at the turn of the millennium, with the preference for electronic documents. And although it is now possible to create creative and visually elaborate documents, most employers prefer a simple, structured CV containing essential information.

CV templates: What sections do they include?

Every CV template should include several basic sections to give a future employer a better understanding of you. These sections are:

Personal details

This is the section at the very top of the CV. You should include the following information:

• First and surname
• Address
• Phone number
• Email

Always double-check your personal details. This is especially important for your phone number and email, as these are how a potential employer will contact you if interested.

Some people also add a photograph to this section. While not mandatory, a photo can make a CV feel more personal. If you choose to include one, select a professional image. Avoid selfies or informal photos from parties, social events, and similar occasions.

Work experience

In this section, you can elaborate on your work experience. If you have held multiple positions, it is customary to list the last three or four. Others can be mentioned during the job interview, in a cover letter, or in your portfolio, to which you can provide a link for recruiters.

Work experience should be listed in reverse chronological order. This means you start with your most recent job and work backward.

Remember that a CV should be concise and to the point, so avoid writing too much about your work experience. Simply include:

• Job title
• Company name
• Time period in the role
• A brief description of the role in one or two sentences (optional)

Instead of a brief job description, you can list the scope and responsibilities of the role or the experience you gained in bullet points.

Education

As the name of this section suggests, it is intended to present your education. You write it in the same way as your work experience – in reverse chronological order. The first entry should be your university education, followed by your secondary school.

For each school, include the years you attended and the qualification you obtained, such as A-levels, a bachelor’s degree, or a master’s/engineering degree.

You can also incorporate courses or training you have completed into the education section.

Skills

This section allows you to stand out from other candidates and showcase your strengths to recruiters. Highlight what makes you unique and emphasise your strongest attributes. However, be careful not to include irrelevant information. Try to determine which of your skills would be most useful for the specific job position.

You can list, for example:

• Language skills
• Knowledge of computer programs
• Communication skills
• Organizational abilities
• Leadership skills

Do not overdo it with skills. Mention three, or at most four, and provide additional details, such as a situation where you used them, how they helped you, or where you acquired them.

Hobbies and interests

This is an optional section, but it is worth including in your CV. It serves a similar function to a photograph – it personalises the document and helps you stand out from other candidates. Ideally, it should remain concise and not go into too much depth. Simply list some of your hobbies and interests.

What is considered appropriate to mention? Almost anything you enjoy doing, such as sports, volunteering, travelling, or creative activities like photography or painting.

Additional sections

If your CV is not too long, you can add further sections. Suitable additions include references from a previous employer, awards, or certificates. If you do not have any of these, submit your CV as it is – with just the basic information about your education, work experience, and skills.

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The order of these sections depends on the type of CV you are writing. If you choose a chronological CV, you will list your work experience after your personal details, followed by your education and skills. Conversely, if you choose to write a combination CV, you will list your relevant skills first, followed by your work experience and education.

What is a structured CV?

Nowadays, you can write several types of CVs. The most basic and commonly used is the structured CV. It is characterised by a simple layout and contains only key information, including:

• Personal details
• Work experience
• Education
• Technical and language skills
• Abilities

Additional sections, such as hobbies, may or may not appear in a structured CV

A structured CV is distinguished by its clear and logical structure, containing only relevant information. It is well-organised and has a formal, no-nonsense appearance.

What types of CV structures are there?

When writing a structured CV, in addition to the division between classic and modern CVs, you will encounter three other types:

Chronological CV

This is primarily used to present your work experience. For this reason, the work experience section is placed directly below your personal and contact details. This is followed by your education level, skills, and, if necessary, other optional sections. Since the chronological type focuses mainly on your work history, you can allocate more space to it. However, do not overdo it to ensure the document remains easy to read.

Skilled-based CV

Some sources also refer to this as a functional CV. Its main purpose is to highlight your skills. A list of skills with a brief description is placed directly below your personal details. This is followed by your education level, work experience, and optional sections.

Combination CV (Hybrid CV)

This is useful if you cannot decide between a chronological and functional CV template. It is characterised by emphasising both work experience and skills, giving equal space to both. Its structure is such that, after personal details, skills are listed first, followed by work experience, education level, and optional sections.

How to write a CV

Writing a CV is not difficult. Just follow a few rules:

1. Always allocate enough time for writing and do not rush.
2. Read the job advertisement carefully to incorporate relevant information into your CV.
3. Use CV templates to help with formatting, so you can focus on writing rather than layout adjustments.
4. Write in bullet points. Avoid long, complex sentences.
5. Have someone else proofread your CV to catch any typos or errors you might miss.

Mistakes in a CV

Errors in a CV come across as very unprofessional and can ruin a first impression. The most common mistakes include grammatical and stylistic errors. Another frequent issue is incorrect formatting (varying font sizes, multiple colours, etc.), excessive length, and irrelevant or false information.

Skills in a CV

Professional experience and education are important, but employers often look for additional skills you can offer. Therefore, do not forget to include them in your CV and always mention what could help you secure the job.

You can also indicate your proficiency level in certain skills. For languages, for example, the scale from A1 to C2 is commonly used.

Formatting a CV

When formatting your CV, follow these rules to ensure it looks professional:

1. Use only one font type, one size, and one colour (ideally black).
2. If you want to separate sections, you can use bold text or a slightly larger font.
3. Avoid using coloured backgrounds, images, or other decorative elements.
4. Your CV should be no longer than two to three pages, including references.
5. Focus on your achievements – for example, in work or education.
6. Save the document in PDF format.
7. Ensure consistent line spacing throughout the document.

CV templates for everyone

Today, there are many CV templates available, varying depending on profession and situation – whether you are a student, a programmer, or looking for work abroad. If you fall into one of these categories, you will find templates below to help you with your writing.

Student CV template

A CV template for university applicants, as well as a template for secondary school students, focuses mainly on academic achievements and education. Do not hesitate to write a little more about these.

Programmer CV template

Interested in a programming job? In your CV, be sure to highlight technical skills and work experience. Education and other relevant abilities are also important. For more information, see our article: Programmer CV: How to Write a developer CV + IT CV Templates.

CV template in English

Whether you plan to work abroad or stay in your home country but have a foreign employer, you will likely need a CV in English and possibly German. This differs slightly in structure from a CV in your native language.

Employer references in a CV

You can attach references from a former employer, manager, or other superior to your CV. Remember that they should be concise and clear. They must also include contact details for the person providing the reference so recruiters can verify its authenticity and learn more about you.

Choose a template and write a professional CV

Writing a CV may seem complicated at first glance. However, if you know what mistakes to avoid and what to include, everything becomes much simpler. Moreover, you now have access to various CV templates to help your document look professional.

FAQ

1. What types of CVs exist?

There are three main types of CVs: chronological, functional, and combination. The chronological type focuses on work history, the functional type emphasises skills, and the combination type merges both approaches.

2. What information should a CV include?

A CV should include your personal details (name, contact information), a brief profile or career objective, work experience, completed education, skills, and possibly certificates or awards.

3. What should an ideal CV look?

An ideal CV should be clear, professional, and tailored to the position you are applying for. Use clear headings, bullet points, and a readable font.

4. Can I use CV templates?

Yes, templates are a great way to save time and gain inspiration. Ensure the template is modern and adaptable to your needs.

5. What is the ideal length of a CV?

A CV should typically be one to two pages long, depending on your work experience. Recent graduates may only need one page, while experienced professionals may require two.

6. Is it important to include a photo in a CV?

In some countries and industries, a photo may be beneficial, but in others, it is better to avoid it. Always follow the norms and culture of the field you are applying to.

7. How can I increase my chances of getting an interview with my CV?

Focus on relevant skills and achievements, use keywords from the job advert, and make sure your CV is free from grammatical errors and typos.

8. Can I include references in my CV?

References are usually provided upon request, so it is not necessary to include them directly in the CV. However, you can state that they are available upon request.

9. How often should I update my CV?

It is recommended to update your CV after every significant change, such as a new job, acquiring new skills, or completing education. Keep it up to date so you can respond quickly to job opportunities.

A developer CV should be clear and concise. It gives a potential employer an overview of your work experience and the skills you can use in the IT field. But how do you write it in a way that will help you land your dream job? We’ve put together all the key information and a clear guide to help you do just that.

How to write a programmer CV?

A Curriculum Vitae (CV) is a document that introduces you to a potential employer and makes a first impression. You should therefore take the time to prepare it and include all relevant information about yourself.

The CV should be polished but concise. Provide recruiters with basic information about yourself, your education, work experience and skills. You can also briefly describe your interests or hobbies, but don’t go into too much detail.

Less is more. Write only what is really relevant. Avoid ‘waffle’ and unnecessary information that could spoil the first impression. If you want to elaborate, include a covering letter with your CV.

What format should I choose for my CV as a developer?

Before you start writing, find out what an IT CV should look like. The design should be simple, with a white background and black font. The most suitable fonts are Times New Roman, Arial, Calibri or Cambria in size 12. Section headings can be slightly larger.

If you write your CV in Word, set your margins to 1 to 1.5 cm and your line spacing to 1.15 to 1.5 cm. You can leave larger spaces between paragraphs so that the document doesn’t look cluttered and is easy to read. You can also create your CV in a graphic editor such as Canva. Just choose a template and overwrite the details. Alternatively, you can start with a blank canvas and create your programming CV yourself.

When you have completed your CV, save it as a PDF. This format ensures that sentences, paragraphs and headings stay in place regardless of the device on which the document is opened.

What structure should I choose when writing an IT CV?

To keep your IT CV clear, follow one of three basic structures:

1. Chronological structure

This is the most common structure and is suitable not only for IT but also for many other fields. It is based on your work experience, which is given the most space. Other sections, such as education or skills, are more concise.

The chronological structure is the best choice for a developer or IT specialist. When creating it, stick to the following division:

• bio (optional),
• personal and contact details,
• work experience (describe it in no more than two or three sentences),
• education (indicate school, course and period of study)
• skills (list only),
• optional sections such as interests, hobbies, etc.

2. Professional structure

In English, this type of CV is also called a skills-based CV. It aims to highlight your skills and strengths, leaving your work experience in the background. It is ideal for recent graduates or those with large gaps in their work history.

The professional structure consists of the following parts:

• bio (optional),
• personal and contact details,
• skills (choose a few main ones and describe them in detail),
• education (state briefly),
• work experience (describe briefly and concisely),
• optional sections.

3. Combined structure

The combined structure combines a chronological and a professional structure. This means that skills and work experience are given equal weight.

The combined structure includes:

• bio (optional)
• personal and contact details,
• relevant skills,
• work experience,
• education,
• optional sections.

What to include in an IT developer CV?

An IT CV should contain a few basic sections, which can be supplemented with additional optional sections. These include:

Short bio

A short bio is not a required part of a developer’s CV, but it is a handy introduction that quickly gives recruiters important information about you. Since not everyone writes one, it can make you stand out.

The bio should be short, to the point and clear. It is usually 3 to 6 sentences long, and can look like this:

“I am an experienced developer who loves new technologies and is interested in software development. I specialize in website and mobile app development, with expert-level Python and JavaScript skills. I have more than 10 years of experience as a Java developer, I take pride in details, I am reliable and I like to work in a team.”

The bio should match the requirements of the advert. Emphasize the strengths that potential employers are looking for so that you stand out at first glance.

Personal and contact details

This section is an essential part of any programmer’s CV. This is where you list your:

• first and last name,
• date of birth,
• address,
• phone number,
• e-mail,
• social media/web link.

Social networking sites are optional. However, if you are active on LinkedIn, be sure to include it – recruiters can learn more about you from it.

Work experience

In this section you can show a potential employer that you have enough experience to get the job.

In your CV, start with your job title, followed by the company you worked for, your dates of employment and a brief description of what you were responsible for. Keep the job description brief and clear.

Example:

Java Developer
msg life Slovakia
2020 – 2024

– development and programming of computer and mobile applications,
– website development,
– design and implementation of software components,
– cooperation with software testers and project architects,
– application of agile software management methods.

Provide only relevant information that recruiters are likely to be interested in and that confirms that you are the ideal candidate. For example, if you have more personal projects in your portfolio, you can list your website or project URL on GitHub.

Education and certificates

You don’t need to write too much about your education. Just mention the school, the subject or course you studied and the time you studied it. If you have space, describe what you studied in one or two sentences.

You can also include courses, certificates or awards in this section.

Skills

Education is followed by soft skills and hard skills, which are key skills for employers. They are often more important than education itself.

Soft skills that you can list as a developer and are in demand on the job market can be:

• teamwork,
• communication skills,
• creativity,
• patience,
• detail orientation,
• the ability to solve complicated problems,
• responsibility,
• openness to learn new things.

Hard skills:

• proficiency in programming languages (Python, Java, C#, PHP, Ruby, Node.js, HTML, CSS, JavaScript),
• OS management (Windows XP, MacOS, iOS),
• software development,
• knowledge of algorithms and data structures,
• mathematical and computational skills,
• machine learning and the use of AI,
• cloud computing.

Optional sections – interests and other information

If your IT CV isn’t too long, you can also add optional sections such as leisure activities you enjoy. You can link these activities directly to the job posting.

For example, if a company is looking for someone who can think outside the box, mention the creative activities you do. This will show that you can look at things from a different perspective and come up with unconventional solutions.

IT developer CV template

A template can help you write an IT CV where you simply fill in your details, save it and send it to the potential employer. There are many templates available today.

You can create a universal CV on Profesia.sk. If you’re looking for something different, try Canva, which offers both basic and advanced templates. You can also find inspiration in our article.

Attachments to IT developer CV

You can attach three basic types of attachments to your IT CV:

• Motivation letter – allows you to describe some of your work experience and skills. It also shows why you are interested in the job and why you are the best candidate.
• Cover letter – serves as an introduction to the CV. You can use it to give recruiters a brief introduction to who you are and what your strengths are. It is sent either as a separate document or directly in the body of the email.
• References – provide evidence of your qualities and skills through testimonials from previous bosses, managers or others in a position of responsibility.

What to avoid when writing a developer CV?

Avoid these unnecessary mistakes when writing a developer CV:

• Changing fonts – once you’ve chosen a font, use it consistently throughout your document. If you want to set off certain sections, increase the size of the text or use a bold font.
• Too much colour – IT recruiters expect a simple and clear CV, not a document full of colour that can look chaotic. So don’t go overboard with colours. It’s best to use a white background and black font.
• Irrelevant information – read carefully what the employer is looking for in a candidate and tailor your CV accordingly. For IT roles, emphasize your technical skills and relevant education.
• Typos and mistakes – grammar errors or missing letters look unprofessional and indicate that you haven’t taken enough time to prepare your CV. Employers may get the impression that you are similarly sloppy with the code text. Always have someone else proofread the finished document.
• Versatility – Every job is unique and requires different skills or knowledge. It is therefore important to read the advert carefully and tailor your CV to the employer’s requirements. For example, highlight the skills the company is looking for in candidates.

Get your dream job with an IT CV

Writing an IT CV follows a few basic rules. If you follow them, you can be sure to produce a quality document that will help you get an interview and land your dream job. Get inspired by our tips and start working on a clear, concise and easy-to-read CV today!

How to write a CV? A question asked by many people looking for a new job. The CV is a key document that can make or break your chances of getting a job. It gives potential employers a better insight into you and your work experience. So don’t underestimate its importance and invest enough time and energy in it.

What is a CV?

A resume, often referred to as a curriculum vitae (CV), is a document that contains your personal and professional information. It usually includes :

• first and last name,
• address,
• contact details (phone, e-mail),
• Information about your education (school and university, courses, certificates),
• professional experience (previous positions held and dates),
• skills and competences (language, technical and other skills relevant to the job)
• other information (volunteer activities, awards, interests and other details that might interest a potential employer).

A well-written CV is your calling card, so make sure it is clear, concise and free of grammar errors.

The main purpose of a CV is to introduce you to a potential employer and show them your experience in the field. It is usually short and contains only the most important milestones in your life. This is why it is often accompanied by a motivation or cover letter.

Nowadays, CVs are mostly in electronic form, and there are many templates and ready-made forms that make them much easier to prepare.

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There are several tools that can make the process of creating a CV easier. For example, if you don’t want to start from scratch in a text editor like Word and want to create an attractive document, try Canva. It has a number of interesting templates to choose from. However, if you are looking for something simple and minimalist, a template from Profesia.sk will suffice.

How to write a good CV for a job?

Want to know how to write a CV that will impress employers and increase your chances of landing your dream job? Many people make the mistake of creating cluttered documents with lots of graphic elements, unconventional fonts, and multiple colour combinations. However, this is often not the best solution.

A quality CV should be:

• simple,
• short,
• concise,
• transparent.

Give information about yourself in bullet points, using just a few words or short sentences. Avoid long sentences or paragraphs. Recruiters usually scan them and don’t have time to read them in detail.

What about the design? The best solution is a white background with black text, ideally in Times New Roman size 12. The exception is in creative fields where original design is expected. Again, keep it simple and avoid overly graphic elements.

What to include in your CV?

A CV is made up of several parts, each containing different types of information. To make sure you don’t miss anything, follow the structure below.

1. Personal data

A CV starts with your personal details, which should include:

• first and last name,
• address,
• phone number,
• email address,
• date of birth (if you want to include it)

You can also add a photo to your CV to make it more personal. However, avoid selfies or other unprofessional photos. Portraits against a monochrome background are ideal.

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You can also add your LinkedIn profile to these details. There, the recruiter will also find additional information that didn’t fit on your CV, your activity, case studies, portfolio or other content you create or share on this professional social network. At the same time, you can network and look for jobs on LinkedIn. For more info on why be on LinkedIn, read our article, What is the LinkedIn platform and why have a LinkedIn profile?

2. Work experience

This is one of the most important sections, so pay close attention to it. List your experience in reverse chronological order, i.e. the most recent job should be listed first.

Indicate in this section:

• the title of the position,
• the period from when you started to when you left (only the month in which you started and ended your employment),
• the full name of the company,
• a brief description of the job (please give only the main duties).

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If you have had many jobs during your career, detail the last three or four positions. Mention the others only briefly so that the CV is not too long. You can provide more detailed information during the interview.

3. Education

As with work experience, this section should be written in reverse chronological order. List your highest level of education first (e.g. university), followed by lower levels (e.g. high school).

State:

• the name of the school,
• period of study,
• the field or programme of study (if relevant).

You can also use this section to list courses, training and certificates you have completed. This will show your employer that you are active and learning beyond your formal education. Be concise and include information that is relevant to the position you are applying for.

5. Knowledge

This part of your CV is designed to show recruiters that, in addition to the theoretical knowledge you have acquired at school, you also have practical skills that can be used in the job. For example, you could include knowledge of:

• operating systems,
• various programs (e.g. Word, Excel, Photoshop, Canva),
• typing,
• programming languages.

For each skill, indicate the level, e.g. expert, advanced or beginner.

Language skills form a separate category, often separated by a subheading or a horizontal line. For each language, be sure to indicate the standardized level of proficiency – from A1 (beginner) to C2 (expert). As with all sections, it’s definitely not worth getting confused! At the interview, employers will usually switch to English and check your language skills in person.

6. Interests

This section is optional, but it can spice up your CV and add a personal touch. It makes the document seem more human. However, only list hobbies that are relevant, appropriate or otherwise related to the job.

In this section you can include:

• the sports you play,
• creative activities such as drawing or taking photos,
• interest in culture,
• travelling and discovering new places.

Be careful not to give overly personal or inappropriate information.

7. Driving licence

Important information, especially for jobs that involve regular travel. You only need to indicate your licence group (e.g. B). No other details are usually required.

8. Additional information

At the end of your CV, you can briefly mention the qualities and skills that distinguish you. For example, focus on qualities that might be important to an employer:

• ability to work under stress,
• flexibility and adaptability,
• a love of challenges,
• meeting deadlines.

This information should complete the picture of you as a reliable and capable candidate.

CV mistakes – avoid these faux pas

If you want to know how to write a CV that will impress, you need to be aware of the most common mistakes people make when writing a CV. These include:

• Giving irrelevant information – this unnecessarily lengthens the CV and often looks unprofessional. If there are skills or qualities you will not be using in the role, do not include them in the document. Also avoid overly personal details such as marital status or political affiliations.
• Messy design – a CV should look professional. Be minimalist and uncluttered. Avoid cluttered templates, different fonts, multiple colours, etc.
• Typos – always proofread your text to remove grammatical errors and typos. Ideally, have someone else read it too.
• False information – only give true information that you can back up with a diploma, certificate or references from previous jobs.
• Universal CV – each CV is tailored to the specific company and job you are applying for. Don’t send the same document everywhere – it won’t impress the recruiter.
• Too many pages – the ideal length for a CV is between 1 and 3 pages. Don’t stretch the text and focus on the essential information.
• Unprofessional email – An email address is important contact information. If you have an email with a nickname or funny name, create a new one. The best choice is an email in the form of your first and last name.

How to write a university CV?

When applying to university, you often need to include a CV that is different from a normal job CV. Instead of work experience, focus on:

• learning achievements,
• sporting achievements,
• projects,
• extracurricular activities.

List these data in reverse chronological order.

If you have worked somewhere during your studies, you can also mention this work experience, especially if it is related to the field you want to study. If you are applying for a postgraduate degree or other higher ‘scientific’ qualification, you can also include the title of your dissertation.

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References for your university CV can be provided by a teacher, professor, or coach who knows you well. They can mention qualities such as discipline, conscientiousness, activity, skills, e.g., that you are a good presenter or a team player. This can significantly strengthen your application. You can find out how to write references in our article: A sample reference letter from employer: how and when to include a job reference on a resume?

CV attachments

Some information should not be included in the CV as it may increase the length of the document. When CVs are first screened, recruiters can evaluate them very quickly and read the additional information later. For this reason, we only include the basic and most important information in the CV and include additional information such as a covering letter or references separately in appendices. The following attachments are often included with the CV:

Cover letter

The cover letter can be a separate document or part of an email. It serves as an introduction to your CV and any other attachments you are sending. It should be brief and to the point.

Motivation letter

The purpose of a motivation letter is to introduce yourself and explain why you are the right candidate for the job. It gives you space to fill in and expand on some of the information on your CV. It is usually only sent if the company asks for it.

References

You can attach references as a separate document or include them directly in your CV or motivation letter. They should be written by someone from your previous work environment, ideally someone in a senior position such as a manager or boss. Only include references if the employer asks for them or if you think they can help you.

CV formatting

Send your CV in PDF or DOCX format so that it can be easily opened on any device. Use one or two fonts (e.g. Times New Roman) and a font size of 12. You can separate sections with larger or bold subheadings, but don’t go overboard with formatting.

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The individual sections of your CV should be clearly divided and organized. You can read more about how to write a structured CV in the article: Structured CV – what it is and what it looks like?

Of course, if you plan to create your CV in Canva or another graphic editor, you can refine the format and design much more to your liking. However, don’t forget to keep a logical structure, use only 1 or 2 fonts, and keep the design minimalistic. For example. write the CV chronologically from the most recent information to the oldest.

Focus primarily on your achievements and strengths that might interest a potential employer.

Classic vs modern CV – which alternative is better?

There are two types of CV, depending on how they are processed:

• The classic CV – a simple, concise and clear CV written mainly in bullet points. This style is used in almost all sectors, such as administration or public services.
• The modern CV – redesigned and more detailed. Particularly suitable for creative fields such as graphic design or marketing.

We have also compared these types of CVs in the article: The classic CV template: How does it differ from the modern one and which is better?

Create a professional CV that’s sure to get you an interview

Now you know how to write a CV. Put this theoretical knowledge into practice and create a CV that will catch the eye of potential employers. As you write, watch out for small mistakes that could make you look unprofessional. Make sure you get the font and design right, but don’t forget the content. This should highlight your achievements and the value you can bring to the company.

A student resume is a practical tool for anyone applying to university or looking for a job alongside their studies. Writing such a resume is not difficult, but it differs from the classic resume in many ways. Find out what it should contain and how to write it to avoid unnecessary mistakes.

What is a resume needed for when applying to university?

You may ask why a resume is important for a high school or a college student? There are several reasons for this:

The first is an interest in studying at university. Most schools require a resume with your application to find out more about you and your experience. Colleges are not only interested in your grades in individual subjects, but also your extracurricular activities and work experience. If you’ve worked in a field related to your dream college, your chances of getting in increase.

The second reason why an undergraduate needs a resume is a job alongside your studies. Many high school and college students are looking for summer jobs, first part-time jobs or internships, and to get them they need to provide an employer with a clear document that includes all important information – work experience, education, skills, etc.

Why choose a structured resume? This format is ideal because, as an undergraduate, you probably don’t have extensive work experience to describe in detail. Plus, temporary jobs or internships usually don’t require a complex resume with a highly customized layout, like those seen in modern designs.

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It is perfectly fine for a student CV to be short and concise. Do not try to make it longer than necessary with irrelevant information. Not only will no one read it, but you may also come across as unprofessional.

How to write a college student resume?

Are you wondering how to write a resume for a temporary job or college that is formal and contains all the important information? We have prepared for you some practical tips and tools to help you.

Canva resume example

Today, you can create your resume in a variety of handy tools that make the whole process fast and the result looks original, modern and professional. These tools include Canva, which offers countless interesting templates — some minimalist, others more elaborate. Choose a style that fits the field you want to work in.

In the case of administration, public administration or the economic field, it is ideal to choose rather simple and austere design. On the other hand, if you’re into writing, web design or photography, don’t be afraid to experiment with bolder and more creative templates.

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If you’re using Canva to create your CV, keep in mind that most of the templates are tailored for the US job market. American CVs are slightly different from Slovak ones, so make sure your document contains everything that Slovak recruiters or potential employers require.

Internet job portals for resume template

The Profesia.sk portal provides a simple resume template, where you fill in the necessary information in the relevant sections, save the document in PDF format and send it to the potential employer.

You can also find many other portals on the Internet that offer quick resume creation, such as Kickresume.com or Kariera.sk.

College resume in Word doc

You can also write your resume in Word, but this option is the hardest. You will have to create the whole document from scratch yourself. If you want your resume to look its best, you’ll need to get the formatting right – spacing, font size and color, as well as sectioning.

Graphic editors, patterns and college student resume examples

You can also use various graphic editors or Google templates available on the Internet. These templates can be downloaded, filled in, saved and submitted. There are more than enough options nowadays, so you don’t have to worry about making your resume lengthy or difficult.

What format should I choose for my undergraduate resume?

Resume creation tools are important, but the correct structure of the document is equally important. In general, there are three basic structures.

Chronological structure – When work experience comes first

This format is most commonly used by candidates applying for full-time positions. It focuses primarily on work experience and career success, which are presented in detail. Sections like education or interests are typically secondary.

A chronological resume begins with personal information, followed by work experience, education, skills, and optional sections.

Functional structure – The best format for your resume template

This structure is the opposite of the chronological format — it emphasizes skills and strengths, while work experience takes a back seat. It’s ideal for high school and college students who don’t yet have extensive professional experience.

A functional (or skills-based) resume starts with personal information, followed by key skills with detailed examples — for instance, from internships or competitions — then education (don’t forget to include academic achievements, thesis titles, or project summaries), work experience, and optional sections.

Combined structure – a hybrid compromise

As the name suggests, this format combines elements of both previous types. It gives equal weight to skills and work experience, making it a good option for students who already have some professional background.

A combination resume starts with personal information, followed by skills, work experience, education, and optional sections. This format is more demanding to structure well, as it requires balancing all the key sections evenly.

Sample resumes for undergraduate students

A resume for high schools students differs from one written by college students. This is mainly because high school students have less experience and are usually mainly interested in summer jobs rather than internships or jobs they could continue after graduation.

If you study, you should create strong bullet points in which you include the following information:

• short introduction/bio – summarize the most important information about yourself
• personal and contact details
• skills and strengths
• education – please indicate the school you are currently attending, together with the year you expect to graduate
• work experience – if you have any
• optional sections – as required

In order to make your resume interesting, it is important to highlight different types of skills and strengths. Mention some of your soft skills such as:

• communication skills
• organizational skills
• teamwork
• creativity
• empathy
• responsibility
• critical thinking
• ability to work under stress

Don’t forget to include hard skills which may include:

• basic IT skills (e.g. working with word processors, knowledge of Photoshop)
• language skills
• basic accounting
• data handling
• sports abilities

Types of resumes for a high school student

The information you put on your resume varies according to what type of writing you do. For example:

• College application resume – highlight your grades in relevant subjects, extracurricular activities, and work experience
• Part-time job resume – make it clear you’re still a student, and focus on your work experience and skills (both hard and soft)
• Internship resume – this depends on the internship, but it’s a good idea to emphasize academic achievements, extracurriculars, courses, and relevant skills.

Structured resume – sample for college students

Most college students already have some work experience, so their resume doesn’t feel too empty. Still, it’s a good idea to choose a skills-based structure that focuses on strengths. A well-structured resume includes:

• A short summary about you
• Personal and contact details
• Hard and soft skills
• Education
• Work experience
• Other optional sections

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The reason why a professional structure is the best choice is that even if you have work experience, it’s usually just temporary jobs or internships. That’s why the most important part of your CV is your hard and soft skills.

Resume types for a university student

The resume you send should reflect the type of opportunity you’re applying for:

• Internship resume – include hard and soft skills, academic achievements, extracurricular activities, volunteering, and relevant courses
• Job resume – if the job aligns with your major, focus on your education, relevant courses, academic performance, extracurriculars, and skills.

Tips for writing a student resume

If you want your resume to be the best it can be, follow these recommendations:

• Clearly state that you’re still a student so employers understand you have other responsibilities.
• Only include relevant information that might interest a hiring manager.
• Make the most of your skills – briefly explain them and how they apply to the job.
• Don’t make things up – if you don’t have certain skills, leave them out. You can always say in the interview that you plan to learn them.
• Don’t overdo the design – clean, simple, and readable resumes work best.
• Proofread your resume several times, and ask someone else to review it for errors or details you might have missed.

How to build hard skills through training and learning

To catch an employer’s eye, your resume should highlight hard skills — the technical abilities you can apply to get the job done. These are not innate but learned through training and education. You can build hard skills through:

• courses
• online tutorials
• internships
• trainings
• language schools
• mentoring

Common IT hard skills include, for example, proficiency in programming languages, knowledge of algorithms and data structures, computational and mathematical skills, and many others. Remember that you should only include hard skills in the job description section on your resume.

How to build soft skills through habits and class engagement

Soft skills are abilities that are often acquired naturally, but can be developed over a lifetime – they can be both innate and learned. They are qualities and traits that characterise you. While they may not seem as essential as technical skills, many jobs require strong soft skills.

As a student, you have many opportunities to grow them:
Teamwork, presenting projects, receiving feedback, and engaging in class discussions all help. Sometimes, you’ll need to build soft skills through habit — for example, to improve time management, create a weekly schedule and stick to it.

Classic soft skills include, for example, team leadership, teamwork, ability to work under pressure, creativity, critical thinking, and more.

In the article you will learn:

• What is a structured CV and what makes it distinctive.
• What types of structured CV do we know.
• What to watch out for when writing it.

Structured CV – a phrase that everyone who has looked for a job at least once in their life has come across. It is required by many employers, and a template for it is provided by several programs that will make it easier for you to create. But how does a structured CV differ from other types and what to look out for when writing one? We’ve got all the key information to help you get to the interview.

What is a structured CV?

A structured CV is a simple document that contains all the information found in any type of CV. This means that you should include:

• your personal data and personal profile,
• work experience,
• level of education,
• technical or language skills,
• additional information about your strengths.

So what makes a structured CV different from others? The most striking feature is that it is clear and concise. You write the information concisely and in words – usually describing it in just a few words or shorter sentences.

Most of the information is presented in bullet points, with each section of the CV separated by a distinctive subheading or horizontal line. This makes the document easy to read and the recruiter can find all the necessary information in a fraction of a second.

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The structured CV is brief. It should not contain long paragraphs of text. If you wish to provide more information, you may attach a cover letter. Alternatively, include a few important details in application letter.

What makes a structured CV distinctive?

Creating a structured CV is much easier when you have a clear picture about it. The following characteristics will help you do this:

• Clear and logical structure – as we have already mentioned, this type of CV is written in bullet points and short sentences. You only include the essentials, such as the title of the jobs you worked at, the period of time you worked there, the name of your high school or university, your language skills, etc.
• Relevance – by writing only briefly about each job or educational background in a structured CV, you avoid the risk of providing unnecessary and irrelevant information that could come across as unprofessional.
• Data organisation – you can organise the data in the structured CV in several ways. Whichever you choose, they are all clear and ensure that the document is not messy and reads well.
• Presenting achievements and skills – by presenting information only in bullet points and not in long sentences, you allow your achievements and skills to stand out. The recruiter will immediately notice your work experience, education, etc.

• Formal appearance – when you look at a structured CV template, you’ll notice that it’s simple. As a rule, it has a white background with a black font in a uniform size. This makes it look professional and suitable for almost every industry and job.
• Customisation – A structured CV may not offer the creative possibilities of a modern CV, but that doesn’t mean you can’t customise it. Feel free to add optional sections such as personal interests or references. However, always make sure that the information you provide to a potential employer is relevant.
• Attachments – A structured CV is usually accompanied by attachments that reveal more about your work experience or personal qualities. These include, for example, a motiovational letter. In it, you should mention why you are interested in the job offer and what you can offer to the employer. Other attachments can be references and a cover letter, which you write either as a separate document or in the body of the email.

What are the advantages and disadvantages of a structured CV?

When you decide on this type of CV, you should know what are its biggest advantages and disadvantages.

Benefits include:

• It is clear and simple– it gives all the information about you directly and without unnecessary “cotton wool”.
• It is suitable for almost all job roles – most industries now prefer a minimalist and simple CV, such as this structured one. This is because recruiters don’t have time to read long paragraphs, such as in a fictionalized CV.
• It’s very easy to write – listing work experience or skills in bullet points can be done by absolutely anyone. What’s more, today there are a number of programs that can help you create a document.
• It has a professional design that you’ll never go wrong with – as long as you don’t combine different sizes, colours and font types, you don’t have to worry about your CV looking messy or unprofessional.

On the other hand, a structured CV also has its disadvantages, which are:

• Sometimes it’s too brief – recruiters may miss important information about you that could help them decide whether to hire you for the job. It’s therefore ideal to supplement it with additional attachments such as references or a cover letter.
• It is not original – although a structured CV is very practical and recruiters will get a lot of important information from it, it is not original at all. Your document will be no different from those sent by other candidates. Therefore, it can be difficult to impress and stand out from the crowd.

Structured CV – template and basic structure

According to the type of structure, we divide the structured CV into three basic categories:

• chronological biography,
• professional CV,
• Combined CV.

We’ll talk more about each.

Chronological biography

The chronological structured curriculum vitae is one of the most widely used. It is characterised by its focus on your work experience, which it prioritises above all others. That’s why this information is more comprehensive and is at the top, usually just below personal details such as phone number or address.

Under work experience, education is listed, followed by skills and abilities, and then additional information you would like to use in a future job. However, all of this information is only given very briefly.

The advantage of a chronological structure is that it is established and highlights your work achievements. On the other hand, the disadvantage is that it is used by almost everyone and is therefore the least original of all.

A sample chronological biography looks something like this:

• personal and contact details,
• work experience,
• education,
• skills,
• additional optional sections – interests, driving licence, etc.

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Some people include a shorter introduction of four to five sentences in a structured CV. In it, they introduce themselves in a quick and interesting way and give a few details that can give the recruiter a better idea of their experience and knowledge. Such an introduction comes across as very human and can set you slightly apart from others. If you don’t want to write it directly in the document, process it in the form of a cover letter.

Professional CV

A professional CV, sometimes referred to as a functional CV, focuses mainly on your skills, such as knowledge of a foreign language or operating programs. It also focuses on your strengths, which may include meeting deadlines, ability to work under stress, flexibility, and so on.

You should choose two to four skills to describe in bullet points on your CV. You can mention how you used them in your last job, where you acquired them or how you would like to use them if you get the job.

A professional CV has several advantages. Among them is that it is more original than a chronological one. By highlighting your strengths right at the beginning, you slightly distract from the weaker job section. The downside, however, is that some recruiters may not be satisfied with brief information about your career.

This type of CV is particularly ideal for:

• high school and university graduates who have no hands-on experience in the field,
• people with significant gaps in their working lives (they have not worked for several months or years),
• people who have decided to change careers and this is their first job in a new field of work.

And what are the elements of a structured CV? The template generally looks like this:

• personal and contact details,
• a summary of the skills and a short description of them,
• education,
• work experience,
• optional sections.

Combined CV

The combined CV represents a happy medium between the chronological and the professional structured CV. It is characterised by giving equal space to work experience and skills. It’s a great choice for those who have a career path without major gaps, while possessing multiple practical and relevant skills.

The strength of the combined structure is that it provides comprehensive information from both areas, not just one. However, the disadvantage can be more complicated to prepare, as this type of CV is the most comprehensive of the three.

To maintain a balance between the two parts, it is good to stick to this structure:

• personal and contact details,
• relevant skills,
• work experience,
• education and study experience,
• optional sections.

At the same time, try to make the skills and work experience sections similar in length.

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Remember that information in a structured CV (regardless of the structure chosen) is always presented in reverse chronological order. This means that you mention the last job you held or the last school you attended first, and work your way up to the very first one.

Which structure to choose?

The choice of structure is up to you and your needs. Most people choose a chronological structure focused on work experience, as this is the form most often expected by recruiters in Slovakia.

However, if you’re a recent high school or college graduate, or if you haven’t worked in the field before, bet on the career structure. If you want to elevate both your personal skills and your professional achievements, choose a combined structure.

CV formatting

Formatting is key because it affects the look of your CV and the first impression you make. So stick to these rules:

• Choose one font to use throughout the document.
• The font size may be different in subheadings that separate different parts of the document.
• The subheadings can be a different colour, but don’t complicate it unnecessarily.
• A structured CV should be one, maximum two pages long.
• Save the finished document as a PDF that opens without problems on any device.
• Make sure you have equal alignment and consistent spacing throughout the document.

In what areas is a structured CV used?

Today, the structured CV is used in almost all fields, including administration, government, banking, management and services. It is particularly advantageous for recruiters who can go through it very quickly and find out what your strengths are and whether you are a suitable candidate.

The one exception where a resume with a clear minimalist structure might not be the ideal choice is in creative fields. In those, potential employers may expect a document that is more elaborate in design.

Try creating a structured CV

A structured CV is clear, logical and simple. It gives recruiters all the key information about you and helps you land your dream job. Use the tips we’ve given you to quickly and easily create a professional CV that’s eye-catching and free from unnecessary mistakes.