Skip links

KSAs (Knowledge, Skills and Abilities Statements)

KSA Driven Resume

KSAs (Knowledge, Skills and Abilities Statements)

A few agencies still use KSA questions, but for the most part, they have been replaced in favor of a resume that focuses on the aspects of knowledge, skills, and abilities. To put it another way, the resume carries more accountability. When examining your resume, they are looking for clear, straightforward proof that you have the knowledge, skills, and competencies necessary for the job.

KSAs on your resume will also be cross-referenced to the online assessment questionnaire to ensure that your responses to the questions are supported. If your resume does not provide sufficient support for the answers provided in the questionnaire, you may be excluded from consideration.

 

KSA’s are Qualifying Factors

KSAs, also known as Quality Ranking Factors, are used by agencies to prioritize applicants with higher proficiency levels over those with lower levels of proficiency. The second factor to consider is the outcome and accomplishments you have achieved while working. While human resources are interested in qualifications and skills for the position, hiring managers are also interested in accomplishments, which means that the resume must pass screening factors at various levels throughout the government. You must answer the questions at the best level feasible and show your skills.

 

The Importance of KSA’s (Knowledge, Skills and Abilities) in the Federal Application Process

Don’t make the mistake of assuming that evaluators will infer information from your application package and previous positions. The KSAs can’t be ignored any longer. It is important to make sure that your knowledge, skills, and talents are focused, precise and that you utilize examples wherever available. The CCAR model (Challenge-Context-Action-Result) is the most effective measure of such information.

We take the guesswork out of writing federal resumes, and our writers are federal resume experts who develop resumes that are customized to the series for which you are applying and the job announcement. We assist in the development of your career in the United States Government through providing a resume that helps you progress and move up in pay grades.

Contact Us