A written summary of a candidate's experience, skills, and achievements is called a what?

A résumé is a concise document that summarizes a candidate's work experience, skills, education, and notable achievements. It serves as a marketing tool for job seekers, providing a snapshot of their qualifications to potential employers. The key purpose of a résumé is to highlight relevant information that demonstrates a candidate's suitability for a specific position and to capture the employer's interest.

In contrast, a cover letter complements the résumé by introducing the candidate and explaining their motivations and strengths in relation to the job. A portfolio typically contains samples of a candidate's work, showcasing their expertise and abilities, especially in creative fields. A reference list provides names and contact information for individuals who can vouch for a candidate's qualifications, but it does not summarize the candidate's own experiences and skills. Thus, the résumé is the most appropriate term for the document in question.