When it comes to managing and formatting a curriculum vitae (CV), traditional methods can sometimes feel limiting. In an attempt to find a flexible and tech-savvy solution, I embarked on a journey to translate my CV into code. Here’s what I discovered:

Exploring JSON Resume

My first experiment was with JSON Resume, a project that seemed initially promising. JSON Resume allows you to keep all of your data in a JSON file, and from there, you can simply generate a PDF with your chosen theme.

However, as I delved deeper, I found that the themes are developed by third parties, and if a theme does not support a particular section, it will be omitted. In my case, this led to the exclusion of an essential 'Certificates’ section, a non-negotiable element for me.

The Leap to LaTeX

Discouraged but not defeated, I turned my attention to LaTeX, a high-quality typesetting system; but it comes with a steep learning curve. Writing a CV from scratch, especially for a LaTeX novice, can be a daunting task. The syntax and rules required substantial effort to grasp.

Thankfully, I stumbled upon a plethora of LaTeX templates for CVs on Overleaf. These templates provided a strong foundation, allowing me to tailor each element to my specific needs.

Embracing LaTeX: The Final Product

After a few evenings of playing around with LaTeX, I was thrilled with the results. Not only did I have complete control over the appearance of my CV, but I also found that future updates would be much more enjoyable. The final product is available on my GitHub repository: PBujakiewicz/resume.

Conclusion

My journey from JSON to LaTeX was enlightening, filled with lessons learned and unexpected challenges. If you’re looking to take control over your CV’s format and appearance, LaTeX is a powerful tool that’s worth the initial learning curve. While JSON Resume may suit those with more straightforward requirements, LaTeX offers unparalleled flexibility for those willing to invest the time.