How to Add a Projects Section to Your Resume

A dedicated "Projects" section isn't required on every resume, but in certain cases it's a valuable addition that strengthens your experience. This article covers when to add this section and how to write it.

When Should You Add a Dedicated Projects Section?

• If your experience is limited (see Student Resume Example, Intern Resume Example) — projects are the strongest content for offsetting a lack of work experience.
• If you work in a technical field (software, design, data, etc.) — concrete deliverables (code, designs, analysis) boost your credibility.
• If you've run a meaningful personal project outside your current job that adds value relevant to the role you're applying for.

How to Write It

For each project: project name, a short description (1-2 sentences), the tools/methods you used, and a link if you have one:

Personal Finance Tracker App Built a web app using React and Firebase that lets users categorize and visualize their monthly spending. [GitHub Link]

Which Projects Should You Choose?

Instead of adding every project you have, select the 2-4 strongest and most relevant ones. When choosing a project, consider:

• How relevant is it to the role you're applying for?
• Does it have a concrete deliverable (a live app, a report, a design)?
• Does it have a story to tell (a challenge you faced, a solution you found)?

Where Should You Place the Projects Section?

• If your experience is light: Right under your education section, before your experience section.
• If you have experience but projects add extra value: After your experience section, before your skills section.

For Team Projects, State Your Own Contribution

If it was a team project, instead of describing the project as a whole, clearly state your own role and contribution:

"On a project built with a 4-person team, was responsible for the user interface and API integration."

Conclusion

A projects section strengthens your resume, especially when offsetting a lack of experience or proving technical ability with concrete deliverables. Presenting the 2-4 most relevant projects, each with a clear description and a link when available, maximizes this section's impact.