Bio data, also known as biographical data, is a term used to describe information about a persons personal and professional background. The term has two main usages:
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In South Asia, a biodata is essentially a resume or curriculum vitae (CV) used for job applications, grants, and marriage purposes. It contains the same type of information as a resume, such as work experience, education, and skills.
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In industrial and organizational psychology, biodata is used as a predictor for future behaviors. It includes factual questions about life and work experiences, as well as items involving opinions, values, beliefs, and attitudes that reflect a historical perspective. Biodata measures are based on the measurement principle of behavioral consistency, which means that past behavior is the best predictor of future behavior.
A biodata typically provides more personal information than a resume or CV, including age, gender, marital status, religion, and other personal details. Medical biodata may also be requested, which includes information on blood type, genotype, disabilities, allergies, and health conditions like asthma.
