Step 1: gather your information
Before formatting anything, write down your contact details, every job or volunteer role with dates, your qualifications, short courses, licences, languages and computer skills. It is easier to choose what to include when everything is in front of you.
Step 2: use a simple format
A clean, single-column layout with clear headings is easiest to read and to open on any device. Use one font, consistent dates, and save as PDF unless the advert asks for Word.
Step 3: write a short profile
Two or three sentences at the top: the kind of role you want, your most relevant experience or studies, and one strength that matches the advert.
Step 4: experience, most recent first
For each role give the job title, employer, town and dates, then two to five bullets that describe what you achieved, not just your duties.
Step 5: education, training, references
List your highest qualification first. Add relevant short courses and certificates. Give two references, with their permission, or write 'available on request'.
Step 6: tailor and proofread
Read the advert and make sure the skills and duties it mentions appear truthfully in your CV, in similar words. Then check spelling, dates and contact details once more.