When is it appropriate to put a WIP project on my resume?

Question

I'm writing an OpenGL rendering engine in C++. I'd like to put it on my resume but it's not much yet, just basic rendering + camera. I'm thinking to put it on there once I have all the OpenGL code properly abstracted along w/ a basic interface, unit tests and the ability to load meshes working.Is this a good idea? I'll be applying for my first CS job so I'm not sure what is appropriate for my resume.Thanks in advance :)

trcarney · Accepted Answer

If you aren't sure, just make sure it is visible in your GitHub profile. During my most recent job search I had some completed projects on my resume and portfolio site but the project they wanted to talk about the most was one I am still working on and didn't put on either but it was visible in my GitHub. That project got me the job because it was using a technology they wanted to transition to.Just make sure your resume isn't too cluttered. That's a common problem I see with a lot of people who are applying to their first jobs or right out of school. The resume should just hit the high points of your career/education that are relevant to the position you are applying too. Always remember that whoever reads your resume is reading hundreds of them, they aren't going to want to read a novel for every applicant.

a3n · Answer

When is it appropriate? Whenever it's relevant in some way, or if you'd like to talk about it in the interview.Most of your time in any company will be working on WIP. So wouldn't it be great to talk about where you are, how you got there, how you're planning, milestones, etc.

detaro · Answer

If you are just entering the industry pretty much anything you've put care into and can talk about or show is worth adding.

emmaLe · Answer

Writing something like that with an intent to put it in your resume will take you on a very different path compared to just making it for your own eyes only. This is a fun project, make sure you have fun before all else.