Reading Text

Reading Text refers to understanding materials written in sentences or paragraphs.

Common Examples:

• Scan for information or overall meaning
• Read to understand, learn, critique or evaluate
• Analyze and synthesize information from multiple sources or from complex and lengthy texts

Document Use

Document Use refers to finding, understanding or entering information.

Common Examples:

• Read signs, labels or lists
• Understand information on graphs or charts
• Enter information in forms
• Create or read schematic drawings

Writing

Writing refers to communicating by arranging words, numbers and symbols on paper or a computer screen.

Common Examples:

• Write to organize or record information
• Write to inform or persuade
• Write to request information or justify a request
• Write an analysis or a comparison

Numeracy

Numeracy refers to using numbers and thinking in quantitative terms to complete tasks.

Common Examples:

• Make calculations
• Take measurements
• Perform scheduling, budgeting or accounting activities
• Analyze data
• Make estimations

Oral Communication

Oral Communications refers to using speech to exchange thoughts and information.

Common Examples:

• Provide or obtain information
• Greet, reassure or persuade people
• Resolve conflicts
• Lead discussions

Thinking Skills

Thinking Skills refers to finding and evaluating information to make rational decisions or to organize work.

Common Examples:

• Indentify and resolve problems
• Make decisions
• Find information
• Plan and organize job tasks
• Use critical thinking
• Use memory

Working With Others

Working With Others refers to interacting with others to complete tasks.

Common Examples:

• Work independently, alongside others
• Work jointly with a partner or helper
• Work as a member of a team
• Participate in supervisory or leadership activities

Computer Use

Computer Use refers to using computers and other forms of technology.

Common Examples:

• Use different forms of technology, such as cash registers or fax machines
• Use word processing software
• Send and receive emails
• Create and modify spreadsheets
• Navigate the Internet

Continuous Learning

Continuous Learning refers to participating in an ongoing process of improving skills and knowledge.

Common Examples:

• Learn on the job
• Learn through formal training
• Learn through self-study
• Understand your own learning style
• Know where to find learning resources

You can learn more about the 9 Essential Skills by visiting the following sites:

• Human Resources and Skills Development Canada
• Ontario Skills Passport

What's Next

Every job requires a different combination of Essential Skills.  Visiting different occupational profiles will tell you what skills you need for your dream job. 

If you think you have found your dream job, but don't know if you have the skills required to be successful at it then Measure Up!  Assess where your essential skills are at.

Knowing where you have strong skills may point you in a different career path.  On the flip side, knowing where your essential skills are weak highlights where you need to do some more learning.  Discover how you can build your Essential Skills learning plan.