The difference between CV vs Resume is the biggest question when you are looking for a job application, it’s important to know the difference between a CV and a resume. Both documents are used to present your qualifications and work experience, but they serve different purposes and are used in different contexts.
There are some key differences between a resume and a CV that you should be aware of. In this article, you’ll find the key differences between a CV and a resume that makes them different documents, so you can choose the right document for your job application.
What is Curriculum Vitae (CV)?:

CV stands for Curriculum Vitae, and the meaning of CV is “course of life” which is a Latin term. A CV (Curriculum Vitae) is a longer, more detailed document that lists your professional and educational experiences in detail. It’s typically used in academia, research, and medical professions, as well as for international job applications. CVs are often several pages long and include a wide range of information, including:
- Personal details (name, contact information, nationality)
- Educational background (degrees, institutions attended, grades)
- Professional experience (employment history, research projects, publications)
- Skills and competencies (languages spoken, technical expertise, leadership experience)
- Awards and achievements (grants, scholarships, honors)
- Professional affiliations (memberships in professional organizations)
Format of the CV:
The format of a CV varies by industry and the job you’re applying for. However, there are some broad guidelines you can follow when creating your CV:
Clear Layout
Use a simple & clear layout, and use a professional font like Arial or Calibri, and make sure your CV layout is easy to read.
Use headings and bullet points
While you create a CV try to use headings & bullet points to organize the different sections of your CV & bullet points to list your achievements and responsibilities. It will help the reader to quickly scan and understand your CV.
Include your contact information
Make sure to include contact information in your CV. For example your full name, address, phone number, and email address and make sure these are at the top of your CV.
Spelling and grammar
Most important point while you create a CV make sure your CV has no spelling and grammar errors because the first impression is the last impression.
What is Resume?:

The word “resume” is derived from the French word “resumer,” which means “to summarise.” In the context of job applications, a resume is a document that summarizes your professional and educational experiences.
A resume is often the first point of contact between you and a potential employer, and it’s your opportunity to make a good impression and stand out from the competition. Resumes are usually one or two pages long and include the following information:
- Personal details (name, contact information)
- Professional summary (a brief overview of your skills and experiences)
- Professional experience (employment history, including job titles, responsibilities, and accomplishments)
- Educational background (degrees, institutions attended)
- Skills and competencies (technical skills, language abilities, leadership experience)
Format of the Resume:
There are different formats that you can use for your resume, and the best format for you will be determined by your career goals, work history, and the specific requirements of the job you’re applying for. Here are some broad guidelines you can follow when creating your Resume:
Chronological:
This format lists your work experience in reverse chronological order (with the most recent positions listed first). It’s the most common resume format and is best for candidates with a solid work history and clear career progression.
Functional:
This format focuses on your skills and achievements rather than your work history. It’s a good choice for candidates with gaps in their work history or those who are transitioning to a new career.
Hybrid:
The chronological and functional elements formats are combined in this format. It lists a skills section that highlights your achievements and qualifications while outlining your job history in reverse chronological order.
Targeted:
This format is customized to a specific job or industry and highlights your relevant skills and experiences. It’s a good choice for candidates who have a specific career goal in mind.
Which Document Should You Use?
When selecting which document to utilize, it’s crucial to take the context of your job application into account. A CV is frequently the best option for job applications from abroad or for academic or research positions. A resume is typically better suitable for careers in business or the creative industries.
It’s also a good idea to research the expectations of the specific industry or company you’re applying to. Some industries may have specific requirements for the format and content of job application documents.
Conclusion:
CV (Curriculum Vitae) and resume are both documents that summarize your professional and educational experiences. However, there are a few key differences between the two documents.
Both documents CV (Curriculum Vitae) and resume summarize your professional and educational experiences. CV (Curriculum Vitae) and resume both are valuable documents if you have a resume but don’t have a CV you should create a CV too. If you have both documents that mean you are prepared for any job.
I hope this article will helpful to you and will understand the differences between a CV and a Resume.