Want to include projects on your resume, but not sure how much detail is too much? Here are the project details you do (and don’t) need in your resume.
2 years ago • 4 min read
Projects are a frequently overlooked but potentially high-value resume addition. This is especially true if you’re an entry-level job seeker or considering changing careers — the right project can help fill out a less than robust work experience section and prove to hiring managers that you have the essential skills for the job you’re applying for.
In this article, we’ll cover:
Let’s start by looking at the most essential project details to list on your resume.
At a minimum, projects on your resume should include:
That seems like a lot of information, but it doesn’t have to take up a huge amount of space on your resume — keep scrolling for details, including templates and examples.
Here’s an example of including project-based experience in your work experience section:
If your projects weren’t work-based but are still highly relevant, you could create a separate projects section:
If the project wasn’t directly relevant to the job you’re applying for — or if you’re running low on space — include it briefly in an additional section:
I’d recommend uploading your resume to the tool below to find out if you have structured your projects (and project details) the right way. It’ll also scan your resume sections and let you know which details belong on your resume and which ones to leave off entirely.
Let’s take a look at a resume template that’s ideal for showcasing specific project-based experience:
This resume example has taken selected project experience and extended it out to include specific accomplishments, including project details and key metrics. Because these projects were essential to the role, here they’re included in the work experience section, but you could easily move them to a projects or additional section if they’re less relevant.
Download this free template (and others) from our ATS resume templates page.
Short answer? Yes!
Longer answer? If:
Then you should definitely make space for a projects section. If you already have extensive work experience without including projects, you can probably leave them off.
Any kind of project can go on your resume. This includes work projects, university projects, and even personal or hobby projects.
Not in the strictest sense — meaning, you shouldn’t list them under a “Work Experience” heading unless you’ve actually used them at work. But yes, they do show hiring managers that you have some experience using relevant software, programming languages, or other technical skills, and they can count toward your years of experience or level of proficiency.
Yes, but don’t list them as “roles and responsibilities.” Your role in the project can double as your job title, but try to focus on your accomplishments rather than your responsibilities.
Any — as long as they’re relevant! If you’re just starting out, you could include: