How to Write a CV in MS Word

CV stands for curriculum vitae and is a written overview of a person's accomplishments. It is similar to a resume, as it is used to present qualifications to a potential employer. But a CV is much longer, usually two to three pages or more. CVs are commonly used in Europe, but only used in the United States in an academic setting. CVs are meant to show your abilities as a scholar, teacher or researcher. Use Microsoft Word to write and format an academic CV.

Instructions

1

Open a blank document in Microsoft Word.

2

Choose a standard font and font size, such as 12 pt. Times New Roman. You want the CV to look simple and professional. In MS Word, click the "Home" tab to make changes to font.

3

Start the CV by typing the heading, which includes your pertinent contact information, such as full name, address, email address and phone number.

4

Press "Enter" to create a blank line. There should be a blank line in between sections. Create an Objective section, which includes a short statement describing the type of position you are seeking.

5

Form the Education section, where you list your academic degrees and qualifications, including certifications you've completed.

6

Create the Work Experience section, which is the most descriptive part of the CV. For each entry, include the title of your position, name of the company or organization, employment dates and a description of your responsibilities and tasks. Just like a resume, use a format known as gapping, in which you use incomplete sentences to describe your actions. Instead of using first person, start each sentence with a past tense action verb (assuming you no longer work there). Include all relevant work experience, no matter if it was paid, volunteer work or temporary.

7

Write a Skills Summary, in which you should list relevant skills. Use keywords instead of long descriptions.

8

Add an Honors, Awards and Accomplishments section. This can include academic awards or other related awards, related coursework or projects.

9

Write an Activities and Interests section, in which you can include extracurricular activities , such as professional associations or clubs.

10

Add a separate page of references or include a section that says they are available upon request.

11

Look over and edit the CV when you've completed it. Click the "Review" tab and select "Spelling & Grammar" to do a spell check. It's important to avoid any spelling or grammatical errors in your CV.

12

Click the "Microsoft Office Button," then "Save as" to save the file.