Optimise your CV using F-Shape Reading Pattern

What is the F-Shape reading pattern?

The F-shaped reading pattern was first identified in a 1997 eye-tracking study by Jakob Nielsen, a web usability expert. Nielsen studied more than 200 users who looked at thousands of web pages. He found that users' eyes tended to scan web pages in an F-shaped pattern, with the most attention being paid to the top left corner of the page.

Nielsen's study was conducted on desktop computers, but the F-shaped reading pattern has also been observed on mobile devices. A 2012 study by the Nielsen Norman Group found that users of smartphones and tablets also tend to scan web pages in an F-shaped pattern.

Why use it?

The F-shaped reading pattern is thought to be due to a number of factors, including the way that our eyes are naturally drawn to the top and left side of a page, as well as the fact that we are more likely to be interested in the first few lines of text on a page. The pattern is also influenced by the way that web pages are typically structured, with the most important information often being placed at the top of the page.

The F-shaped reading pattern has implications for the way that CV's should be laid out. By understanding how users scan your CV, job applicants can create CV's that are more likely to be read and understood. This can be done by placing the most important information at the top of the page, using clear and concise language, and breaking up the page into scannable sections.

Optimise your CV

The F-shaped reading pattern can be used to optimise your CV so that it is more likely to be read and understood by potential employers. Here are a few tips:

• Place the most important information at the top of your CV.

• Use clear and concise language.

• Use headings and subheadings to break up your CV into scannable sections.

• Use keywords throughout your CV.

• Format your CV so that it is easy to read on a screen.

Our free CV templates follow this pattern:

Here are some additional tips for optimising your CV for the F-shaped reading pattern:

• Use white space to make your CV easy to scan.

• Use bold, italics, and underlining to highlight important information.

• Use bullet points to list your skills and experience.

• Use a consistent font and font size throughout your CV.

• Proofread your CV carefully before submitting it.

By following these tips, you can create a CV that is easy to scan and understand, and that will increase your chances of getting your dream job.