Filling in a Form / CV (Junior Cert German): Revision Notes
Filling in a Form / CV
What is this task?
In German exams, you may need to complete application forms or create a CV (Curriculum Vitae). This writing task requires you to provide accurate personal information, educational background, and work experience in a clear, organised format. The task tests your ability to use appropriate German vocabulary for formal documents and demonstrate attention to detail with dates, spelling, and formatting.
Guidelines for completing forms and CVs
When approaching this task, structure is essential. Begin by reading through the entire form to understand what information is required before you start writing. Use the formal register throughout, as these are official documents that require professional language.
Always read the complete form first before filling in any sections. This helps you understand the overall requirements and plan your responses accordingly.
Follow the layout provided exactly as it appears on the form. Each section should be completed in the order presented, and you should avoid leaving blank spaces unless the information genuinely doesn't apply to you. Keep your responses concise but informative, using short phrases rather than complete sentences where appropriate.
German Date Format Pay particular attention to dates, which should follow the German format: day.month.year (e.g., 15.03.2024), and ensure all German words include the correct capitalisation and any necessary umlauts or special characters.
Essential vocabulary
Master this core vocabulary before your exam - these terms appear frequently in German application forms and CVs.
| German | English |
|---|---|
| Name | Name |
| Adresse | Address |
| Geburtsdatum | Date of birth |
| Geburtsort | Place of birth |
| Nationalität | Nationality |
| Telefonnummer | Phone number |
| E-Mail-Adresse | Email address |
| Schule | School |
| Fächer | Subjects |
| Noten | Grades |
| Erfahrung | Experience |
| Fähigkeiten | Skills |
| Sprachen | Languages |
| Hobbys | Hobbies |
| Interessen | Interests |
| Unterschrift | Signature |
| Datum | Date |
Phrase bank
Sample Form Responses
Here are examples of how to format common form entries:
- Name: Anna Müller
- Geburtsdatum: 14. Mai 2009
- Fächer: Deutsch, Englisch, Mathe
- Erfahrung: 2 Monate im Café gearbeitet
- Sprachen: Deutsch, Englisch
- Hobbys: Fußball, Lesen, Musik
Common mistakes & tips
Capitalisation Rules Many students make errors with German capitalisation rules. Remember that all nouns in German must begin with a capital letter, including words like "Schule" (school) and "Erfahrung" (experience).
Accuracy is Critical Be extremely careful with numbers and dates - double-check these before submitting as they are often marked strictly. Avoid including unnecessary personal details that weren't requested on the form.
Stick to the information asked for and resist the temptation to elaborate beyond what's required. Honesty is crucial - never invent qualifications or work experience, as this defeats the purpose of the exercise.
One frequent error is mixing formal and informal language. Since forms and CVs are official documents, maintain a professional tone throughout. Also, ensure your handwriting is clear and legible, as illegible responses may not receive credit even if the content is correct.
Finally, familiarise yourself with common German form headings before the exam. Knowing these terms in advance will save valuable time and reduce anxiety during the test.
Key Points to Remember:
- Learn the key German vocabulary for personal details, education, and work experience before your exam
- Always double-check dates, numbers, and spelling of names and places for accuracy
- Use short, clear phrases rather than full sentences when filling in forms
- Follow the exact layout and order provided on the form or CV template
- Keep responses concise, relevant, and honest - only include information that's requested