This document provides a foundation of information for anyone who wants to understand and use Essential Skills Profiles, which describe the frequency and complexity of the use of Essential Skills in different occupational groups.

The authors begin by explaining what Essential Skills and Essential Skills Profiles are and offer examples of groups of people who may find the profiles useful, including employers who are developing training programs; educators developing curriculum; parents and mentors helping students plan their future; and researchers studying employment in Canada.

The guide includes a chapter on each of the nine essential skills, explaining each in detail, as well as tips for understanding the profiles.

This document was prepared by the Essential Skills Research Unit, Skills and Labour Market Information Division, of the Skills and Employment Branch of Human Resources and Social Development Canada, now called Human Resources and Skills Development Canada.