# What Sections Should a CV Have?

The sections every CV needs, the ones that are optional, and the order to put them in.

Category: CVs
Author: Tlangelani Khosa
Published: 2026-09-23
Tags: CVs, Job Search

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Short answer: five core sections, in this order.

## The must-haves

1. **Contact details** (name, phone, email, city, LinkedIn)
2. **Professional summary** (two lines: who you are and what you offer)
3. **Education**
4. **Experience** (work, projects, or volunteering)
5. **Skills** (match them to the job)

## The optional extras

Add these only if they help:

- Certifications or short courses
- Achievements and awards
- Languages
- References (or just "available on request")

## The rule

If a section does not make your case for this specific job, cut it. A focused CV beats a crowded one. See how it all fits in [the CV basics](/insights/south-african-cv-guide).

## FAQ

### What are the must-have CV sections?
Contact details, a short summary, education, experience, and skills. Everything else is optional.

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Canonical page: https://www.flyquest.co.za/insights/what-sections-should-a-cv-have
Published by FlyQuest, South Africa's career platform for students and graduates.