Question 1

Should I list programming languages I'm currently learning on my resume?

Accepted Answer

Only if the job description explicitly mentions "willingness to learn" or if you've completed substantial projects (even personal ones) that demonstrate functional ability. Never list a language you've only read about or watched tutorials on without hands-on practice.

Question 2

How many programming languages should I include on my resume?

Accepted Answer

Quality over quantity. List 4-8 languages where you have genuine proficiency rather than 15+ where you've only dabbled. Focus on depth in languages relevant to the role rather than breadth across every language you've touched.

Question 3

Do I need to include HTML and CSS as programming skills on my resume?

Accepted Answer

Yes, especially for frontend or full-stack roles. While technically markup and styling languages rather than programming languages, employers search for these terms and they're essential for web development positions. List them together: "HTML/CSS" or "HTML5/CSS3."

Question 4

Should I rate my programming skills with bars or stars?

Accepted Answer

No. Visual proficiency ratings (5-star systems, progress bars) are subjective, inconsistent across candidates, and often invisible to ATS systems. Use clear text labels like "Expert," "Proficient," or "Familiar" instead, or better yet, demonstrate proficiency through your work achievements.

Question 5

How do I list programming skills if I'm a recent graduate with limited work experience?

Accepted Answer

Emphasize academic projects, freelance projects, open-source contributions, and personal projects. Structure your skills section the same way, but in your experience section, include a "Projects" or "Technical Experience" section that showcases what you've built, even if it wasn't for an employer.

Question 6

What if the job requires a programming language I don't know?

Accepted Answer

If it's listed as "required," be honest and don't apply unless you meet the requirement or can credibly learn it quickly. If it's listed as "preferred" or "nice to have," apply anyway and emphasize your ability to learn new languages quickly, citing examples of past languages you've picked up.

Question 7

Should I include years of experience for each programming language?

Accepted Answer

This can be helpful for senior roles where depth matters, but it can also date you or create confusion (do you count college coursework? personal projects?). A better approach: "5+ years professional Python development" in your summary, then let your work experience demonstrate the timeline.

Question 8

How do I show programming skills if I'm changing careers from a non-technical role?

Accepted Answer

Create a "Technical Projects" or "Relevant Experience" section that highlights bootcamp projects, freelance work, open-source contributions, or substantial personal projects. Be explicit about the scope: "Built full-stack e-commerce application using React and Node.js, handling authentication, payment processing, and inventory management for simulated 10,000-product catalog."

Resume Contents

How to List Programming Skills on Your Resume (With Examples)

How to List Language Skills on Your Resume (With Examples)

12 Customer Service Skills to Include on Your Resume (With Examples)

Hard Skills: The Complete Guide to Showcasing Technical Expertise on Your Resume

Interpersonal Skills: What They Are and How to Showcase Them on Your Resume

How to Showcase Leadership Skills on Your Resume (With Examples)