How to Write a CV in the UK: Step-by-Step Guide (2026)

By Eleanor Hartley · Updated 08 June 2026 · 14 min read

Quick answer

Write a UK CV in 7 steps: pick a two-page A4 template, write a 3–5 line personal statement, list work experience reverse-chronologically with quantified bullets, add education, skills, qualifications, then tailor keywords to the job advert and ATS-test the file.

Writing a UK CV is a structured exercise, not a creative one. British recruiters spend 6–8 seconds on the first scan; ATS systems make a binary keyword decision in milliseconds. This guide covers the exact 7-step process used by Resumelyt UK's writing team for every UK CV we produce.

Step 1: Pick a UK-format template

Start with a two-page A4 template with a single-column, parser-safe layout. Avoid US 'resume' templates, they default to Letter size and use US conventions.

Step 2: Write your personal statement

3–5 lines at the top of page one. State the role, your years of experience, your strongest 1–2 achievements (quantified), and what you're looking to do next. Front-load the keyword that matches the job advert.

Step 3: List your work experience

Reverse-chronological. For each role: job title, employer, location, dates (Mon YYYY – Mon YYYY). Then 4–6 bullets, each starting with a strong verb and including a number. 'Increased', 'reduced', 'delivered', 'led', 'launched'.

Step 4: Add education

Degree class (e.g. 2:1), institution, dates. Add A-level grades only if you have under 5 years of experience. Add GCSEs (Maths and English grade) only for school leavers and apprentices.

Step 5: Skills block

6–10 keywords matching the job advert. Software, methodologies, languages, certifications. Avoid soft skills ('hard-working'), they're filler.

Step 6: Qualifications, training and memberships

Professional bodies (CIPD, CIM, RICS, ICAEW, BCS), short courses, regulatory training (FCA Conduct Rules, CQC, etc.). One line each.

Step 7: ATS-test and tailor

Save as .docx. Paste into Reed.co.uk's CV checker or our free CV review. Check that headings parse cleanly. Then tailor 3–4 keywords per application, do not send the same CV to 50 employers.

Frequently asked questions

Do I need a different CV for each application in the UK?

Yes, at least lightly tailored. Change the personal statement opening line and 2–3 keywords to match the job advert. Recruiters can spot a generic CV and ATS systems penalise low keyword density.

How many bullets per job on a UK CV?

4–6 for your most recent role, 3–4 for the previous one, 2–3 for older roles. Front-load quantified achievements; cut filler tasks.

Should I write in first person on a UK CV?

Write in implied first person, no 'I', no 'me'. Start bullets with strong verbs: 'Led', 'Delivered', 'Reduced'. Personal statement may use 'I' once at the opening, but it's optional.

Do I need a covering letter with a UK CV?

Yes if the advert asks for one (most UK roles do). Keep it to one page of A4, three paragraphs: why this role, why you, why this employer.