Learn how to list essay on resume. Effectively list personal narrative essay, analytical or critical essay, research paper or case study, problem solution essay, persuasive or argumentative essay with best practices and real-world examples.
Including essay writing skills on your resume can be beneficial, especially if you're applying to jobs that require strong communication skills, such as content writing, journalism, academic positions, or law. However, its inclusion may depend on the regional and industry context. For instance, in the US, essays are often listed under the 'Writing Skills' section or 'Skills' section, while in other countries, this skill might be less common to find on a resume.
When listing a persuasive or argumentative essay on your resume, focus on showcasing your ability to construct compelling arguments, analyze data, and present ideas effectively. Here are some best practices:
Example 1: Persuasive or Argumentative Essay on Essay Resume
Position: High School Student
Context: AP English Class
Statement: "Completed a persuasive essay in AP English class, addressing the controversial topic of standardized testing in schools. Analyzed various perspectives and presented compelling arguments for reducing its impact on student learning."
Detail Your Research Methods: Discuss your research methods to gather evidence to support your argument. Mention any sources you used, including books, articles, or interviews, to demonstrate your ability to conduct thorough investigations.
Example 2: Persuasive or Argumentative Essay in Essay Context
Position: College Student
Context: Journalism Course
Statement: "Wrote an argumentative essay as part of a journalism course, exploring the ethics of online privacy. Conducted extensive research on recent court cases and privacy policies to construct a well-supported argument for stricter online privacy regulations."
Describe Your Argument Structure: Outline how you structured your argument. Explain whether you used a deductive or inductive approach, and specify if any techniques such as rhetorical devices or ethical appeals were employed to strengthen your persuasion.
Example 1 (continued):
Position: High School Student
Context: AP English Class
Statement: "Employed a deductive argument, beginning with broad principles about student learning and then applying them to the specific issue of standardized testing. Used persuasive language, rhetorical devices, and ethical appeals to engage readers and strengthen my position."
Mention the Outcome: Discuss any feedback you received or awards you won for your essay. This can demonstrate the effectiveness of your persuasive skills and your ability to think critically.
Example 2 (continued):
Position: College Student
Context: Journalism Course
Statement: "Received an A+ on my argumentative essay, demonstrating a strong understanding of online privacy ethics and effective persuasive writing. The essay also won the journalism department's monthly award for best investigative piece."
Tailor to the Job: Align your essay description with the job requirements. If the position involves making presentations, writing reports, or engaging in debates, emphasize how the skills you demonstrated in your persuasive or argumentative essay will benefit the company.
Example 1 (continued):
Listing your experience in writing problem solution essays can be a valuable addition to your resume, showcasing your ability to analyze complex issues, propose effective solutions, and communicate them clearly. Here are some best practices:
Example: Demonstrated proficiency in critical thinking, research, and effective communication by crafting well-structured problem solution essays.
Example: Writing problem solution essays within an academic setting, focusing on topics such as climate change, poverty alleviation, and education reform.
Example: Explored the issue of climate change by analyzing its causes, effects, and potential solutions in an essay titled 'The Impact of Climate Change on Global Agriculture.'
Example: Proposed a multi-faceted approach to mitigate climate change's impact on agriculture, including reduced emissions, sustainable farming practices, and investment in climate-resilient crops.
Example: My proposed strategies were supported by case studies and garnered positive feedback from professors and peers, indicating their potential for real-world implementation.
In an academic setting, I wrote a problem solution essay titled 'The Impact of Climate Change on Global Agriculture.' The essay explored the causes, effects, and proposed solutions to climate change's impact on global agriculture. The proposed multi-faceted approach included reduced emissions, sustainable farming practices, and investment in climate-resilient crops. My proposed strategies were supported by case studies and garnered positive feedback from professors and peers, indicating their potential for real-world implementation.
In a professional setting, I authored an essay titled 'Addressing Poverty Alleviation through Microfinance.' The essay analyzed the root causes of poverty, the role of microfinance as a solution, and proposed improvements to existing microfinance models. My proposed solutions emphasized increased accessibility, affordability, and sustainability for microfinance services. The essay was well-received by colleagues and superiors, demonstrating my ability to apply critical thinking and communication skills to real-world issues.
Highlight the Essay's Purpose: Clearly state the purpose of your research paper or case study, such as problem identification, hypothesis testing, or analysis of a specific topic. This gives employers an understanding of what you achieved and why it matters.
Mention Methodology: Briefly describe the methodology you employed, whether it was quantitative (statistical analysis, surveys) or qualitative (interviews, ethnographic study). This demonstrates your research skills and analytical abilities.
Detail Findings: Summarize the key findings from your research paper or case study in a concise yet informative manner. Emphasize any unique or impactful discoveries that set your work apart.
Show Relevance: Explain how your research paper or case study is relevant to the job you're applying for. Highlight any transferable skills, such as critical thinking, data analysis, or project management.
Title and Context: "Exploration of the Effects of Screen Time on Adolescent Sleep Patterns"
Methodology: "Utilized both quantitative and qualitative methods, including surveys, self-reported screen time logs, and interviews with parents and adolescents."
Findings: "Determined that increased screen time was associated with reduced sleep duration among adolescents, emphasizing the need for digital wellness education in schools."
Relevance: "As an Educator, I will use my research skills to design and implement digital wellness programs that promote healthy screen time habits among students."
Incorporating a personal narrative essay in your resume can be an effective way to showcase your unique experiences, emotions, and insights to potential employers. A well-crafted personal narrative essay can help you stand out from other job applicants by demonstrating your storytelling skills, emotional intelligence, and ability to connect with readers on a deeper level.
Contextualize the Essay: Clearly indicate where the essay fits within your resume's overall structure. For example, you might list it under "Writing Samples" or "Creative Projects."
Example: Include a brief title and description for each narrative essay, such as:
Choose the Right Format: Ensure that your essay is easily accessible and well-organized. You might choose to include it as an attachment, link, or directly within the body of your resume.
Example: Provide a hyperlink or download button for readers to access your personal narrative essay, along with any necessary instructions:
Highlight Relevant Skills: Identify and emphasize the specific skills showcased in your personal narrative essay, such as creativity, emotional intelligence, empathy, and adaptability.
Example: List relevant keywords and phrases beneath each essay to help employers quickly recognize your skills:
Include a Call-to-Action: Encourage potential employers to contact you for more information or to discuss how your personal narrative essay relates to the job opening.
Example: Conclude each essay with a call-to-action that encourages employers to reach out:
Keep it Professional: Remember that a resume is primarily a professional document, so maintain a balance between sharing personal stories and keeping the overall tone and format professional.
Example: Use proper grammar, punctuation, and spelling, and proofread your essay carefully before submitting:
In the "Writing Samples" section of her resume, a job seeker includes a personal narrative essay titled "Finding Myself Through Travel." This essay discusses the applicant's journey to self-discovery and personal growth during a yearlong backpacking trip through Europe. The essay highlights the candidate's adaptability, resilience, and emotional intelligence while providing a unique insight into her experiences and character.
In the "Creative Projects" section of his resume, a job applicant lists "The Power of Friendship," a personal narrative essay that explores the significant impact friendships have had on his life. The essay delves into specific instances where friendships helped him overcome challenges and grow as an individual. The candidate uses this essay to demonstrate his ability to communicate emotional stories, build connections with readers, and showcase his empathy and maturity.
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