This template shows the structure of a narrative CV with space for planning your OCAR elements. Copy and paste into your preferred writing app and adapt as needed — you might need fewer or more examples per module depending on your word limit.

⚠️ Remember: these bullet points are for planning. Your final narrative CV should be written in full prose paragraphs, not bullet points!

Use these fictitious examples for inspiration:

Personal Statement

2-3 sentences - draft this last!

See: Writing Your Personal Statement for guidance

Module 1: Generation & flow of new ideas

What narrative links the examples you’re including in this module?

  • Opening:
  • Challenge:
  • Action:

Example 1:

  • Opening:
  • Challenge:
  • Action:
  • Resolution:

Example 2:

  • Opening:
  • Challenge:
  • Action:
  • Resolution

Example 3:

  • Opening:
  • Challenge:
  • Action:
  • Resolution:

Module Resolution

How do these examples work together? What’s their collective impact?

Module 2: Development of others

What narrative links the examples you’re including in this module?

  • Opening:
  • Challenge:
  • Action:

Example 1:

  • Opening:
  • Challenge:
  • Action:
  • Resolution:

Example 2:

  • Opening:
  • Challenge:
  • Action:
  • Resolution

Example 3:

  • Opening:
  • Challenge:
  • Action:
  • Resolution:

Module Resolution

How do these examples work together? What’s their collective impact?

Module 3: Impact on wider research and innovation community

What narrative links the examples you’re including in this module?

  • Opening:
  • Challenge:
  • Action:

Example 1:

  • Opening:
  • Challenge:
  • Action:
  • Resolution:

Example 2:

  • Opening:
  • Challenge:
  • Action:
  • Resolution

Example 3:

  • Opening:
  • Challenge:
  • Action:
  • Resolution:

Module Resolution

How do these examples work together? What’s their collective impact?

Module 4: Impact on broader society

What narrative links the examples you’re including in this module?

  • Opening:
  • Challenge:
  • Action:

Example 1:

  • Opening:
  • Challenge:
  • Action:
  • Resolution:

Example 2:

  • Opening:
  • Challenge:
  • Action:
  • Resolution

Example 3:

  • Opening:
  • Challenge:
  • Action:
  • Resolution:

Module Resolution

How do these examples work together? What’s their collective impact?