In this guide
ATS and application systems
Which resume section headings should you use?
Conventional names for resume sections, how to rename creative headings, what to call less common sections and how to format headings so they are read.
Why conventional names help
Software that sorts a resume into fields often looks for familiar section names to decide where your work history starts and stops. A recruiter skimming dozens of applications does the same thing visually. A heading that says what follows saves both of them a step.
This is not about sounding generic. Your personality belongs in the evidence under each heading, not in the heading itself.
Renaming creative headings
| Creative heading | Conventional heading |
|---|---|
| About me / Who I am | Profile (UK) or Summary (US) |
| Where I have made an impact / My journey | Experience or Work experience |
| My toolkit / What I bring | Skills |
| Learning / Where I studied | Education |
| Things I have built | Projects |
| Giving back | Volunteering |
| Badges / Credentials | Certifications or Qualifications |
Naming less common sections
- Projects: for substantial personal, academic or freelance work with a result you can describe.
- Certifications or Licences: for professional credentials, with the issuer and date.
- Publications or Presentations: for researchers and specialists where the employer expects them.
- Languages: name the language and a plain level such as fluent, professional or conversational.
- Additional experience: for older or shorter roles you want to keep without full detail.
If a section has only one weak item, it is usually better merged into another section than given its own heading.
Formatting headings so they are read correctly
Each heading should
- Be real text, not part of an image or graphic.
- Sit on its own line, above the content it introduces.
- Use the same style as every other heading.
- Avoid decorative characters or emoji in place of words.
- Appear in the main body, not in a text box or sidebar.
UK readers expect 'Profile' and US readers 'Summary' for the opening section; both are widely understood. Luceria's guide to UK and US resume terminology covers the other regional differences.
Common questions
Should I use 'Work experience' or 'Professional experience'?
Either is recognisable. Choose one and use it consistently; what matters is that the heading clearly marks where your employment history starts.
Can I combine Skills and Certifications under one heading?
Yes, as 'Skills and certifications', if each section would otherwise be very short. Keep certifications with their issuer so they can be checked.
Put it into practice
See how Luceria helps with thisDrafted with AI assistance and checked against Luceria’s editorial standards. Examples are illustrative, not real people’s results. Spotted something out of date? Tell us.