A CV, short for Curriculum Vitae, is a document that provides an overview of a person's education, work experience, skills, and achievements. It is typically used when applying for academic positions, research grants, or jobs in industries such as academia, science, or medicine.

A CV typically includes the following sections:

1. Personal Information: This section includes your full name, contact information, and optionally, a professional headshot.
2. Educational Background: Here, you list your educational qualifications, including degrees, certifications, and relevant coursework. You can also mention your thesis or dissertation topic if applicable.
3. Work Experience: This section highlights your professional experience. Include the job title, company or organization name, duration of employment, and a brief description of your responsibilities and achievements.
4. Skills: List your relevant skills and competencies, such as programming languages, software proficiency, or foreign languages.
5. Achievements and Awards: Mention any notable awards, scholarships, or honors you have received.
6. Publications and Presentations: If you have published any research papers, articles, or have given presentations at conferences, include them in this section.
7. Professional Affiliations: List any memberships in professional organizations or societies.
8. References: Optionally, you can provide a list of references who can vouch for your qualifications and character.

When creating a CV, it is important to tailor it to the specific job or opportunity you are applying for. Use action verbs and quantifiable achievements to make your CV stand out. Additionally, consider the industry norms and local practices when formatting your CV.

References:

• Careers New Zealand - How to write a CV
• CV-Library - How to write a CV
• The Muse - How to Write a Resume: The Differences Between a Resume and a CV

I hope this information helps you understand what a CV is and how to create one effectively!