What is a Chronological Curriculum Vitae?

A chronological curriculum vitae, or chronological CV, is the most common format used when writing a résumé. It is the listing of details in reverse chronological order. That is, the most recent employment or educational goal achieved is listed first while the oldest details are listed last. Each detail should be listed under an appropriate heading, such as education and qualifications; work experience (with corresponding responsibilities and skills); activities and interests; and any other relevant personal information.

The advantage of a chronological curriculum vitae is that it shows how knowledge, skills and career goals have progressed. A well designed résumé can be a career showcase and the most powerful tool job seekers have. It is the most common type of CV, as it is the one preferred by most employers. This format makes it easy to see who the candidate has worked for before and what their responsibilities and achievements were. While it is ideal for those who have followed a relatively smooth career path, it is not the best choice in all situations.

If the job seeker is changing career direction, then another format may be best, such as one that highlights skills and achievements first. Some people leave the workforce for reasons such as raising children, illness or ill health, and a chronological curriculum vitae would emphasize the gaps. In these cases, functional or skills-based CVs would probably be a better option.

The chronological curriculum vitae needs to be more than a list of achievements and great, well-placed adjectives. A CV needs to result in the applicant standing out from the crowd, which is no easy feat when there are hundreds or thousands of job seekers looking to be employed. Whatever the format, an elegant CV includes the relevant information for the job. There should be a brief summary of skills in the beginning that is designed to catch readers' attention.

This should be followed by a more detailed summary of appropriate achievements and skills with an emphasis on what the candidate was responsible for. There is no need to go so far back in time that elementary school theater productions are included. Mention only the most recent education, like high school certificates and university or college degrees.

The only personal information that should be included in a CV is what is relevant to the employment being sought. Hobbies and other interests should have some pertinent connection. A well crafted chronological curriculum vitae can make the difference between getting an interview and being passed up for one.