Tips on creating a Writer's C.V

At Scottish Book Trust we often ask those wanting to apply for an award, workshop or position to include a Writer’s C.V. Although some writers are familiar with this document, others are not and we have realised over the years that this uncertainty can cause panic and stress and many forlorn hours worrying in front of the computer screen.

But putting together a Writer’s C.V is actually pretty straightforward. A Writer’s C.V is a document that details your writing and publishing achievements. It should clearly denote your literary successes, interests, passions and plans. It should not include everything that you’ve ever done e.g ballet exams, a GCSE in tiddlywinks- unless you are writing a book on the Scottish Ballet or on games for a rainy day.

It is essential that your Writer’s C.V is clear and easy to understand. It is best therefore to break up the C.V into sections. It is also good to tailor your C.V to the person you are applying to. Therefore if you are applying for funding to run writer’s workshops then it is good to enhance any group work and teaching experience you’ve done in addition to your writing experience.

For most Writer’s C.V, these are the areas that should be included:

• Contact details: You can write your contact details in the header, or just below. Include your name, address, telephone and e-mail (be sure to check your e-mail address is professional). Also include your blog address if relevant to your writing.
• A Writing Bio: 150-200 words on you as a writer. Why do you write and what is your focus? Also what are your past achievements and future plans? 
• Reviews of your work/comments: If you’ve had any great testimonials on work you’ve written or workshops you’ve run then you can include it in this section.
• Awards and Achievements: List any competitions you’ve won or writing residencies, festivals and writing events that you’ve been invited to or participated in.
• Publications: Include anything you’ve had published- articles, stories, poems, flash fiction and where they’ve been published. Also include details of any blogs or reviews you’ve done.
• Education: Any education that you think is relevant e.g a degree in English, Journalism, Creative Writing. Other qualifications or evening classes might be appropriate for teaching writing classes like a Teaching or Community Education qualification. Remember also to include any workshops you may have attended e.g Radio Lab or the Presentation Skills workshop.
• Work Experience: List any jobs which are relevant to writing or have given you an experience that has enhanced your work in any way.

That's it! But before you eagerly send off your C.V- please remember to proofread it!