If you’ve seen both skill set and skillset, you may wonder whether one is a spelling mistake.
The answer isn’t simply that one is right and the other is wrong.
Skill set is the main form used by Oxford and Merriam-Webster. Cambridge also recognizes skillset as an alternative form, so it isn’t accurate to call the one-word version incorrect.
If you’re choosing the spelling yourself, skill set is the straightforward default.
Skill Set vs. Skillset
In most contexts, skill set and skillset refer to the same concept: a group or range of skills and abilities.
For example:
Her skill set includes writing, editing, and research.
You may also see:
He brings a strong skillset to the job.
The main difference is how the term is written:
- skill set — two words
- skillset — one word
Cambridge lists skillset as an alternative form of skill set, while Oxford uses skill set as its main entry.
So if you’re unsure, skill set is a good default.
Is “Skillset” Correct?
Yes.
Some websites say that skillset is wrong and that only skill set should be used. That is too broad.
Cambridge explicitly recognizes skillset as an alternative form.
So a more accurate explanation is:
Skill set is the main dictionary form, while skillset is an alternative form recognized by some dictionaries.
If you see skillset in a job posting, article, or other document, you don’t need to assume it is a spelling mistake.
Which Form Is Better for Formal Writing?
If you’re choosing the spelling yourself for a resume, cover letter, assignment, or other formal document, skill set is a straightforward choice.
For example:
My skill set includes content writing, SEO, and keyword research.
This position requires a strong technical skill set.
This doesn’t mean that using skillset automatically makes a formal sentence incorrect. Cambridge recognizes the one-word form. If you’re deciding how to write the term yourself, though, skill set is the safest default.
Skill Set on a Resume
The spelling isn’t the only thing that matters. It’s also important to explain what your skill set includes.
Compare:
I have a strong skill set.
with:
My skill set includes technical SEO, content writing, and keyword research.
The second sentence tells the reader exactly which skills you have.
You can do the same with other types of work:
My skill set includes Excel, data analysis, and financial reporting.
Instead of making a general claim about your abilities, name the skills that make up your skill set.
What Does “Skill Set” Mean?
A skill set is a group or range of skills that someone has.
Oxford defines it as a person’s range of skills or abilities. Merriam-Webster defines it as a set of skills, especially a collection that can be applied to professional or creative work.
For example, a content writer might have skills in:
- research
- writing
- editing
- SEO
- proofreading
Together, these abilities can be described as the writer’s skill set.
The term can also be used outside work:
His skill set includes several styles of martial arts.
Cooking has become part of her skill set.
The course helped students develop a practical skill set.
Skill vs. Skill Set
A skill is an individual ability. A skill set is the range of skills and abilities a person possesses.
For example:
Writing is one of her skills.
That refers to one ability.
Now compare:
Writing, editing, research, and SEO make up her skill set.
Here, several abilities are being considered together.
A simple way to remember the difference is:
skill = one ability
skill set = a group of abilities
You don’t need to use skill set every time you’re talking about someone’s abilities. Sometimes skills is more natural:
She has strong writing and research skills.
What Is the Plural of “Skill Set”?
The plural is skill sets.
For example:
The company needs employees with different skill sets.
Each department requires a different skill set.
The two candidates have very different skill sets.
The phrase remains two words. Only set becomes plural:
skill set → skill sets
What About “Skillset”?
For the normal noun, use skill set without a hyphen.
For example:
She has a strong skill set.
Common Mistakes
Saying “skillset” is always wrong.
That’s too strong. Cambridge recognizes skillset as an alternative form.
Adding a hyphen
For the normal noun, use skill set.
Confusing a skill with a skill set
A skill is one ability. A skill set is a collection of abilities.
Making the phrase too vague
Instead of:
She has an impressive skill set.
You can say:
She has strong writing, research, and communication skills.
The second version tells the reader what she can actually do.
FAQs
Is “skillset” one word or two?
The main dictionary form is skill set, written as two words. Cambridge also recognizes skillset as an alternative.
Is “Skill Set” Appropriate for a Resume?
If you’re choosing the spelling yourself, skill set is a straightforward choice. It’s also better to name the specific skills you have instead of simply saying you have a “strong skill set.”
For example:
My skill set includes SEO, content writing, and keyword research.
Is “skillset” correct?
For the noun, skill set is the standard form used by the dictionaries checked. You generally don’t need a hyphen.
What is the plural of “skill set”?
The plural is skill sets.
The two candidates have different skill sets.
The phrase remains two words.
Conclusion
If you’re choosing the spelling yourself, skill set is the easiest choice. Oxford and Merriam-Webster use skill set as the standard form.
Skillset is also recognized as an alternative by Cambridge, so don’t assume it’s a spelling mistake when you see it.
The simple rule is:
skill set → main dictionary form
skillset → alternative form recognized by some dictionaries
skill sets → plural form
When you’re unsure, write skill set.
[…] See Also: Skillset or Skill Set: What’s the Difference? […]