Knowledge, Skills, Abilities and Other Characteristics (KSAOs)

Knowledge, skills, abilities and other characteristics (KSAOs) are the attributes required to perform a job:

• Knowledge refers to the body of factual or procedural information that can be applied, such as knowledge of foreign languages or computer programming languages.
• Skills are the capabilities require to perform tasks accurately, such as psychomotor activities like typing speed or driving ability.
• Abilities are more stable characteristics that can include cognitive, sensory and physical abilities, such as empathy.
• Other characteristics are traits that do not fit into the other categories, including values, work style, personality and degrees and certifications.