Contrary to popular belief, a Curriculum Vitae (CV) and a resume are not the same.

‘Curriculum vitae’, a Latin phrase which translates to ‘course of life’, documents in detail all your achievements, qualifications and skills.

A CV can be said to contain an extensive description of everything you have ever done. There is no limit to the number of pages a CV should have. Each time you accomplish something new, your CV ought to be updated. A CV is typically used for jobs and admission in Academia.

According to Andrei Kurtuym, resume, CV and cover letter writing expert, the following should be placed in a CV:

Full name
Contact information
Professional title, resume summary, or resume objective
Research interests
Education
Publications (both academic papers and books)
Teaching or lecturing experience
Work experience
Conferences and courses
Skills
Certificates
Languages
Grants of fellowships
References

Resumes

The first resume recorded in history was done by Renaissance painter and scientist Leonardo Da Vinci in 1482. The word resume comes from the French word résumé, which translates to ‘summary’. While writing is the common
and usual way for doing resumes, persons have done their resumes in the form of videos. Unlike CVs, resumes are very short and provide a concise version of the achievements, qualifications and skills of an individual. Resumes can also have a headshot of the applicant. They should be one (the most two) pages long and are usually done for job hunting and tailored to that specific job.

According to Kurtuym, the following should be in a resume:

Full name
Your job title, or the name of the position you’re applying for
Contact information
Resume summary or objective
Work experience
Education
Relevant skills
Languages and proficiency
Relevant certifications and interests (if any)

Although CVs and resumes are in fact different, this is not recognised in Europe, as the terms are used
interchangeably. When asked for a CV in Europe, just know your resume is expected.

With this knowledge you can create your CV or resume today! Do this by simply visiting the web for a
creative and professional template, input the necessary information and voilà… you are good to go!