50+ Must-Have Computer Skills to Put on Your CV in 2025

Computer skills refer to your ability to use computers and related technology efficiently. In today’s world, they are essential for both your career and daily life. Consider this: job listings almost always require these skills, as everyday tasks like online banking or video conferencing depend on basic technical know-how.

In this guide, I’ll explain everything you need to know about computer skills. You will see a list of advantageous computer skills for your CV as well as how to include them effectively. And if you’re not a tech-savvy person, I’ll share tips on developing your computer knowledge.

Create an effective CV in minutes. Choose a professional CV template and fill in every section of your CV in a flash using ready-made content and expert tips.

Create your CV now

Create a professional CV now!

NO

YES

Create your CV now

We created the sample on the right using our builder. See other good CV examples like this one.

Why are computer skills critical in 2025? 

There’s a digital skills gap in the UK: demand is increasing while fewer students study IT, and participation in GCSE IT has dropped by around 40% since 2015. About 11 million UK adults lack the computer skills needed for everyday life. To put it simply, mastering computer skills will give you an advantage in both career and life. 

Here are additional reasons why computer skills are critical:

• Most jobs require basic computer skills for everyday communication, as well as more advanced competencies for tasks such as data management and project coordination.
• Computers provide immediate access to extensive resources and knowledge, enabling you tolearn, research, and make informed decisions. 
• Employers value candidates with strong computer skills, as these are often necessary for both technical and non-technical roles across nearly every industry. 
• Multinational companies utilise computer tools, including email, video conferencing, and collaboration platforms, to facilitate global connections and collaboration among their employees. 
• Having solid computer skills makes it easier to adapt to new software, tools, and systems in a rapidly changing technological landscape.

Read on to see examples of the most popular computer skills.

Basic computer skills

Basic computer literacy is essential across all industries. This includes familiarity with everyday computer operations and standard office software. 

Key examples of basic computer skills include:

Computer hardware basics

Turning on and off the computer, using a mouse and a keyboard, and using a printer.

Typing skills

Typing at a comfortable speed and accuracy level for data entry, writing, and documentation.

Internet browsing

Using internet browsing applications to access websites and search for information online.

Email management

Efficient use of email clients (e.g. Outlook or Gmail), including advanced features like filters, folders, and mail merge for bulk emails.

Office suite proficiency

Creating, editing, and saving documents using tools such as Microsoft Office or Google Docs.

Spreadsheets & data handling

Using spreadsheet software to organise data and perform calculations (e.g. creating formulas, pivot tables, vlookup, and macros).

Presentation tools

Creating and delivering slide shows with software such as Microsoft PowerPoint, Google Slides, or OpenOffice Impress.

Operating systems & file management

Navigating Windows or macOS, including creating folders, installing software, moving files, and adjusting system settings.

Advanced computer skills

Mastering advanced computer skills helps you become more efficient at performing job-related tasks. The specific skills you need depend on your profession. For example, a clinical receptionist should know how to access patient data and check practitioners’ availability, while a project manager needs to coordinate team capacity with project workflows.

Here are typical examples of advanced computer skills:

Productivity software

Modern workplaces rely on various productivity and collaboration tools. Being adept with these platforms helps streamline communication and project coordination. 

Examples include:

• Communication & collaboration tools: Team messaging and video conferencing tools like Slack, Microsoft Teams, and Zoom for real-time communication and meetings.
• Scheduling & task management tools: Calendar and to-do list applications such as Calendly for scheduling, Todoist for task lists, or Toggl for time tracking and productivity monitoring.
• Note-taking software: Digital note-taking and organisation tools like Microsoft OneNote or Evernote to capture and share information.
• Workflow automation apps: Using automation platforms like Zapier to integrate apps and automate repetitive tasks, improving efficiency.
• Calendar management: Scheduling and managing meetings, reminders, and deadlines with tools like Google Calendar or Outlook Calendar.

Project management

Experience with project management tools and methodologies is highly valued, as it demonstrates the ability to plan, execute, and oversee projects. 

Computer skills in this category include:

• Project planning tools: Using project management software (e.g. Asana, Trello, JIRA, ClickUp, Monday.com, Basecamp) to create task plans, assign responsibilities, and track progress.
• Product roadmap & collaboration: Familiarity with tools for planning product development and collaboration, such as Airtable or ZenHub, to prioritise features and coordinate team efforts.
• Database management systems: Ability to work with databases to store and retrieve project data (e.g. Microsoft Access, MySQL, Oracle, SQL Server), which is useful for managing large datasets within projects.
• Agile and Scrum methodology: Understanding and applying agile project management frameworks like Scrum (e.g. running sprints, daily stand-ups, backlog management) to improve teamwork and delivery.
• Resource & budget tracking: Monitoring project resources and expenses using project management tools or spreadsheets to ensure timely and cost-effective delivery.

Sales systems

Sales and customer-management systems help automate and streamline sales processes. Experience with these systems can be a significant advantage on your CV, especially if the target company utilises similar tools. 

Essential sales-related computer skills include:

• Automated billing systems: Using software that automatically generates invoices and manages billing cycles for clients or subscriptions.
• Customer Relationship Management (CRM): Proficiency with CRM platforms (such as Salesforce, Zoho CRM, HubSpot, or Freshworks) to track leads, manage customer data, and analyse sales pipelines.
• Payment processing platforms: Familiarity with online payment gateways and processing systems (for example, Stripe, PayPal, or Square) to handle transactions securely and efficiently.
• Sales automation tools: Streamlining outreach with tools such as LinkedIn Sales Navigator or automated email sequencing software.

Enterprise systems

Enterprise systems are large-scale software solutions that manage core business operations. If you have experience with these, be sure to highlight it. 

Key enterprise-related computer skills include:

• Business continuity planning: Using tools and strategies to ensure critical business functions can continue during emergencies (e.g. backup systems, disaster recovery software).
• Business Intelligence (BI) software: Analysing data with BI and reporting tools (for example, Microsoft Power BI, Tableau, QlikView, or Looker) to guide strategic decisions.
• Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP): Working with ERP systems like SAP, Oracle NetSuite, Sage, or Microsoft Dynamics to integrate and manage company-wide processes (finance, supply chain, HR, etc.).
• Data reporting & analysis: Generating reports and dashboards using SQL Reporting Services or custom BI tools to track performance metrics.

Content creation

Skills in content creation involve using various applications to produce digital content, from graphics to videos. These abilities are crucial for roles in design, marketing, and media. 

Examples of content creation tools and skills include:

• Graphic design tools: Creating vector graphics and illustrations using software such as Adobe Illustrator or CorelDRAW, as well as producing social media post templates in apps such as Canva.
• Image editing: Proficiency in photo editing and compositing with programs like Adobe Photoshop (for tasks such as retouching images or creating graphics).
• Layout & publishing: Using design software for layouts and print/digital publishing, for instance, Adobe InDesign for brochures, magazines, or PDFs.
• UI/UX design & prototyping: Designing user interfaces and experiences with tools like Sketch or Figma, including creating wireframes and interactive prototypes for apps/websites.
• Video production: Editing and producing videos using software like DaVinci Resolve, Blackmagic, Adobe Premiere Pro, or other video editing tools to create multimedia content.
• Content writing & editing: Creating and refining written content, including copywriting, ghostwriting, or publishing via content management systems (e.g. WordPress).
• Using AI: Working with AI-powered tools and chatbots to create content for specific platforms and purposes.

Social media

Companies value the ability to manage an online presence and engage with audiences on social platforms. Social media skills on a CV should highlight both platform expertise and analytics. 

Key social media skills include:

• Platform expertise: Knowledge of major social media platforms, such as Facebook, Instagram, Twitter (X), and LinkedIn, including how to post content, grow followers, analyse statistics, and engage an audience on each.
• Social media management tools: Experience with tools like Hootsuite or Buffer to schedule posts across multiple channels and monitor engagement from one dashboard.
• Analytics & insights: Ability to interpret social media metrics (using built-in platform analytics or tools like Google Analytics) to measure campaign performance and user engagement, then adjust strategy accordingly.
• Audience engagement & targeting: Skills relevant to targeting the right audience and tailoring content, e.g. understanding user demographics, utilising audience insights, and even basic user modelling to predict customer behaviour.
• Campaign strategy & advertising: Planning and running paid campaigns using platforms like Facebook Ads Manager or LinkedIn Ads.

Marketing outreach

Marketing outreach skills involve using digital marketing tools and techniques to reach potential customers. If you have experience in digital marketing, highlight the specific platforms and strategies you’ve used. 

Important computer skills in this area include:

• Content management & SEO: Using content management systems like WordPress (along with SEO plugins such as Yoast) to publish content and optimise it for search engines (SEO).
• Email marketing: Experience with email marketing platforms (for example, Mailchimp or Sendinblue) to create email campaigns, manage mailing lists, and implement automation workflows for targeted messaging.
• Online advertising (PPC): Managing pay-per-click advertising campaigns using tools like Google Ads or Facebook Ads Manager, including keyword research, ad creation, and budget optimisation.
• A/B testing & marketing automation: Conducting A/B tests on marketing content (emails, landing pages, ads) to improve conversion rates, and utilising marketing automation software (such as HubSpot Marketing Hub, Marketo, or Zapier integrations) to streamline and personalise outreach efforts.
• Conversion tracking & analytics: Measuring marketing performance with tools such as Google Analytics, Tag Manager, or tracking pixels.

Programming

In tech-heavy roles, programming skills are often a prerequisite for success. List the programming languages and technologies you’ve mastered in a separate section, especially if they’re mentioned in the job description. 

Examples of programming skills include:

• Web development languages: HTML and CSS for structuring and styling web pages, JavaScript (and frameworks/technologies like AJAX) for interactive web functionality, and frameworks like ASP.NET for web applications.
• General-purpose languages: Proficiency in widely-used languages such as C/C++, Java, or C#, which are used for building software applications of all kinds.
• Scripting & data languages: Knowledge of dynamic languages used in scripting, data analysis, or web development, e.g. Python, PHP, Ruby, R, or Perl.
• Mobile development: Experience coding mobile applications, using Swift or Objective-C for iOS development and Java or Kotlin for Android development.
• Database query languages: Ability to use SQL for database querying and managing data; also familiarity with data formats or markup like XML for data interchange.
• Version control (Git, GitHub, GitLab): Managing code changes, branches, and collaboration using version control systems.

IT support & cybersecurity

Cybersecurity is a highly valued skill among employers, as it is essential for protecting sensitive data, digital systems, and critical infrastructure from the growing number of cyber threats. The demand is driven by the increasing global risk of cybercrime, the damage caused by breaches, and a shortage of skilled professionals.

These skills include:

• Technical troubleshooting: Installing software, configuring devices, and resolving common connectivity or hardware issues.
• System administration basics: Managing user accounts, updates, and security settings on operating systems such as Windows or Linux.
• Cybersecurity awareness: Practising safe computing, including recognising phishing emails, using strong passwords, and enabling multifactor authentication.
• Data backup & recovery: Implementing cloud storage or backup routines and restoring information when needed.

Other software development & QA skills

Beyond programming languages, other advanced computer skills enhance your effectiveness as a software developer or IT professional. Showcasing them on your CV can demonstrate that you’re a well-rounded tech candidate.

Some other computer skills include:

• Software design & architecture: Understanding of algorithms, data structures, and software design principles (how to structure code and applications for efficiency and maintainability).
• Testing & debugging: Ability to test software and troubleshoot issues, for example, writing unit tests, using debugging tools, and following QA processes to ensure code quality.
• Configuration & deployment: Experience with configuring software environments and deploying applications. This can include using configuration management or containerization tools (like Docker) and continuous integration/deployment (CI/CD) pipelines.
• Documentation & maintenance: Skill in writing clear documentation (for code, APIs, or user guides) and maintaining software over time (version updates, refactoring code for improvements).
• Version control & collaboration: Proficiency with version control systems (notably Git and platforms like GitHub or GitLab) for collaborative software development and tracking changes in code.
• Security best practices: Awareness of basic cybersecurity principles, such as writing secure code, managing user permissions, and protecting data, which is crucial for any software-related role.
• System modelling & simulation: Designing workflows, processes, or prototypes using modelling tools to support software development and testing.

A strong CV summary will convince the recruiter you’re the perfect candidate. Save time and choose a ready-made personal statement written by career experts and adjust it to your needs in the LiveCareer CV builder.

Create your CV now

How to show computer skills in CVs

Now that we’ve learned more about the most common computer skills, let’s work out how to demonstrate them to potential employers on your CV. 

1. Mention key computer skills in a CV introduction

The CV summary, or CV profile, could be the only thing recruiters will read of your CV. Make it known right away that you have the computer skills they seek to convince them of your worth. The example below shows how to do it:

2. Feature relevant computer skills in the work experience section

Here comes the magnum opus, your work experience section. Follow these CV tips to highlight your computer skills professionally:

• Explain the impact of your actions with numbers and specific computer skills or software.
• Tailor the job history section to the job advertisement by highlighting required competencies.
• Use at least 5–7 bullet points for your most recent job. Three will do for the previous ones.

This example shows how to follow these tips in practice:

3. Make use of your education section

Your CV education section is very relevant if you have less than three years of work experience, so it should occupy more space on a student CV (likely your first CV) than on one written by an experienced candidate. List courses that provided you with specific computer skills, or any extracurricular activities that contributed to your development.

4. Create a tailored skill list for your computer knowledge

If you have a highly digital or computerised job, you’ve had ample opportunity to talk about your computer literacy in your work experience section. Here, in the CV skills section, you ought to list around five supplementary skills or software proficiencies that you have, but don’t need a long elaboration. That said, if you’ve completed any exciting side projects, add a couple of lines of description—it shows passion and initiative. 

And don’t neglect soft skills. They’re just as important as hard skills and IT skills, and employers highly value those skills.

5. Show computer skills in additional CV sections

Additional information in a CV is not about you. It’s about you being useful to the employer. If you’re listing something, make sure it’s relevant. Doing it right will make you stand out.

List languages, certificates, and awards clearly under separate headings. They’re a great way of showing you have good computer skills and take you one step closer to writing the perfect CV.

Below, you can see a full CV example featuring basic and advanced computer skills:

Computer skills in a CV: example

How to learn and further improve computer skills? 

Enhancing your computer skills is a valuable investment that improves your job prospects and boosts your confidence in the digital world. Whether you're seeking a new job, a promotion, or just want to feel competent online, these skills pay off. 

Here’s how to learn and improve your computer skills:

1. Take advantage of training courses and qualifications

Enrol in courses matching your level:

• Beginners or those seeking basics can try free or low-cost adult education classes or workshops. In the UK, the government offers free Essential Digital Skills Qualifications (EDSQs) for adults with low digital skills, covering device use, online communication, and transactions, with a recognised certificate. Check local colleges or the National Careers Service for these courses.

• For advanced training, consider pursuing certifications such as Microsoft Office Specialist or vendor-specific courses (e.g., Adobe, CompTIA), which are often available online or in evening classes. These courses teach new skills and allow you to add new credentials to your CV.

2. Use free online learning resources

You don’t always need to pay for tech skills, as many free resources are available online. Select a skill, find a reputable source, and dedicate regular time to practising it. Consistency is key: practice regularly, even if it's just a little.

• The National Careers Service’s Skills Toolkit offers free digital courses, from basic to advanced. 
• Platforms like Coursera, edX, and FutureLearn host university and company courses on topics ranging from computer use to programming and data science, many of which are free to audit. 
• For quick learning, try YouTube tutorials (such as Excel tricks and graphic design tips) or interactive sites like Codecademy for coding practice.
• Software companies like Microsoft, Google, and Adobe also offer free tutorials and beginner guides. 

3. Practice by doing projects

Skill-building is most effective when applied to real tasks. Set small projects or find opportunities to use new tools. Want to improve at Excel? Budget personal finances in a spreadsheet, using formulas and charts. Learning to code? Create a simple website or app, like a to-do list or blog. 

For general office skills, consider volunteering at work or a community group and performing tasks such as designing flyers or managing contact lists. Creating tangible projects helps address real issues and enhances understanding, which you can showcase in job applications or interviews, or add to a portfolio.

4. Keep practising newly acquired skills

Technology constantly evolves, so view learning as ongoing. Follow relevant sites or blogs, and use your skills regularly. Consider contributing to open-source projects, freelancing, or working on personal projects if your job doesn't provide sufficient practice. Practice builds confidence. 

Listing skills on a CV? View similar guides:

• Analytical Skills & How to Show Them
• Communication Skills Needed for Any Job
• Critical Thinking Skills to Include in a CV
• Examples of Interpersonal Skills
• Good Problem Solving Skills Examples
• IT Skills Examples for Beginners and Pros
• Leadership Skills & How to Improve Them
• Presentation Skills to Impress Employers
• Technical Skills to Include in a CV
• Time Management Skills to Add to a CV

You don’t have to be a CV writing expert. In the LiveCareer CV builder you’ll find ready-made content for every industry and position, which you can then add with a single click.

Create your CV now

Key points

In today’s digital world, computer skills are no longer optional—they’re vital. Whether you’re applying for your first job or seeking a promotion, highlighting strong computer abilities on your CV can differentiate you and show your preparedness for modern workplaces.

By identifying the most relevant computer skills, tailoring them to each job application, and continually improving, you’ll not only enhance your career prospects but also maintain confidence in an ever-changing digital landscape.

Thank you for reading, and best of luck in creating your impressive CV packed with strong computer skills!

How we review the content at LiveCareer

Our editorial team has reviewed this article for compliance with LiveCareer’s editorial guidelines. It’s to ensure that our expert advice and recommendations are consistent across all our career guides and align with current CV and cover letter writing standards and trends. We’re trusted by over 10 million job seekers, supporting them on their way to finding their dream job. Each article is preceded by research and scrutiny to ensure our content responds to current market trends and demand.

Sources

• World Skills UK, "Disconnected: exploring the digital skills gap"
• Jemma Waters, "Tackling the digital divide"
• EC-Council Cybersecurity Exchange, "Why Cybersecurity Skills Are Essential for Entry-Level Tech Roles in 2025"