Here are some tips for filling out the OF-612 and the additional knowledge, skills and abilities narratives required in most case-examining job announcements. An example of the expanded format which may be used in preparing the work experience blocks follows the tip section.

1. Plan carefully. Your OF-612 is the first thing a prospective employer sees; apply the concept you are preparing “an interview on paper.”

2. Prepare your basic or “master” OF-612 after reviewing the X-118 Handbook and some current announcements in your field. The X-118 is a qualifications information source which is available in most CPOs and transition centers or libraries. For Wage Grade or Blue Collar information, use the X-118 C.

3. The announcement may detail Knowledge, Skills and Abilities (KSAs) which must be documented on plain paper.

4. Prepare a separate narrative on each “selective” or “quality ranking” or KSA factor as stated in the job announcement. This could make the difference in whether or not you are considered for the position. A typed supplemental statement relating your experience to these factors helps avoid having to tailor your OF-612 each time you apply for different positions. Include concrete examples of work performed. The same information may need to be repeated to address multiple KSAs within the same application.

9. Work performed as a volunteer may also be used to demonstrate your qualifications for a position. Remember to include volunteer or unpaid work experience that is related to the position for which you are applying.

10. A key item to provide on your OF-612 is evidence that you have progressed in each job, as well as from one job to the next. Clearly describe how you have assumed more responsibilities or more demanding duties with each job.

11. Use separate experience blocks for each employer, promotion, substantial salary change, job reassignment, or detail.

12. In Item 2, fill in the lowest grade level shown on the announcement you will accept. If qualified, you may be considered for grade levels above the level you indicated.

13. In Item 12, list degrees you expect to receive within nine months of the date of your application. Education may be substituted for experience, but experience is the major factor for most evaluations.

14. In Item 13, indicate any special qualifications, skills, and accomplishments: memberships, publications, presentations, letters of commendation, certificates, nominations, honors, awards, etc. Do not attach copies unless instructed to do so.

15. After you complete your OF-612, save the original. You will probably be able to use it for other, similar jobs. Photocopies are acceptable, but each copy must be signed and dated in ink. Fill in the job for which you are applying (Item 1), and the vacancy announcement number (Item 3), and the signature and date (Item 18) at the time of application.

16. You may be able to claim 5-point veteran preference/direct appointment authorities, if entitled to it, on Item 15 of the OF-612, BEFORE RECEIVING YOUR DD Form 214. This has been established in an OPM directive to federal agencies. You must provide proof of preference in competitive examining prior to entry. You can not claim 10-point preference without the documentation noted on the Standard Form 15, Application for 10-Point Veteran Preference.