Question: 03

Comparison between different technical documents.

CV and Ré sumé
Title Resume CV
Origin Comes from the French word resume Comes from the Latin phrase
which mean “Summary”. curriculum vitae which literally means
“Course of life”.

Usage Applying for the job, and internship Applying for an academic position,
or taking part in the job fair, etc. advanced research, fellowship, grants,
awards etc.

Content Provide a concise overview of skills Detailed and comprehensive history of

and experience relevant to the academic and professional experience.
position.

Length Typically not more than two pages. Has no limit, but at least 2 to 3 pages
long depending upon the experience.

Purpose Catch the eye of a recruiter or a Provides a comprehensive history of

hiring manager and land a job. your life’s work and education.

Region Widely accepted in the US and Widely accepted in Europe, Asia and
Canada. Africa.

Modification Resumes are always changing, with The content remains the same
new events being added. regardless of the position you are
applying for.
Format Written in reverse chronological Written in chronological order.
order.
Layout Begins with work experience and Begins with education.
achievements.

References Do not include. Included.

Memo and Letter
Memo Letter

A memo is used internally within an Letters are used both for internal and external
organization moving upward, downward, or communication.
horizontally.

A memo does not require a return address, A letter requires an inside address, Salutation
salutation, or complimentary close. and complimentary close.

A memo can use technical jargon and While communicating with external people
abbreviations because their meaning is through a letter, simple words are encouraged
understood by the people within the rather than jargon.
organization.

Memos are never sent out of the company or Letters can be both sent to recipients within
organization. the organization or outside the organization.

A memo is a one to many type of A letter is a one to one communication.

communication.

A memo uses an informal tone and is straight Letters are very formal and contain lots of
to the point. information.
Memos are short in length. Letters are comparatively long.

There is no need for a signature in the memo, The letter is to be duly signed by the one who
as it used within the organization. sends it.