why write a biography

How to Write a Biography in 8 Steps (The Non-Boring Way!)

Compelling biographies help us better connect with others while fostering empathy and understanding. Discover the steps to write one that captivates your audience!

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Have you ever been captivated by someone’s life story? From the ancient tales of great conquerors to the modern accounts of influential figures, biographies have enchanted readers and viewers for centuries. 

The stories of real people’s lives not only entertain and educate but also provide a unique window into the human experience. In fact, according to research 1 https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8796048/ , human stories like biographies can help us better connect with others while fostering empathy and understanding.

In this article, let’s dive into how to write a compelling biography, from the research phase to delivery.

What Are the Key Elements of a Biography?

The key elements of a well-written biography bring characters to life. They include thorough research, relevant interviews, clear structure, captivating prose, compelling themes, and a balance between objectivity and empathy. 

• Thorough research: Helps create an accurate portrayal of your subject
• Relevant interviews: Insights help provide a deeper understanding of your subject
• Clear structure: Helps you outline your ideas for a compelling narrative
• Captivating prose: Provides descriptive language to paint a picture of your subject
• Compelling themes: Showcases the motivations and desires behind your subject
• A balance between objectivity and empathy: Keeps biases in check and allows your subject to shine for who they are

As you develop your biography, remember that these stories hold an enduring appeal because they offer people an opportunity to explore the depths of the human psyche, unravel extraordinary accomplishments, and discover the vulnerabilities and triumphs of individuals who have left their mark on the world. 

Here are the topics a biography typically covers:

• Early life and background : Provide context about the subject’s upbringing, family, and cultural influences.
• Achievements and milestones: Highlight notable accomplishments, contributions, and significant events throughout their life.
• Challenges and struggles: Explore the obstacles they faced, the lessons learned, and how they overcame adversity.
• Personal characteristics: Describe their personality traits, values, beliefs, and motivations that shaped their actions and decisions.
• Impact and legacy: Discuss the lasting influence and contributions of the subject, both during their lifetime and beyond.

Ready to start crafting your biography? Find greater success with this helpful goal-setting resource!

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Let’s look at the six key elements of a well-written biography more closely and the steps you can follow to develop your own.

How to Write a Biography in 8 Steps Using Key Elements

Choose your presentation format.

Presenting your biography can take on various forms, the most traditional being written form. The basis for this article assumes you’re writing a conventional biography; however, this foundation can also help you create a multimedia presentation or website as well. 

Consider these various formats to present your biography:

• Traditional Written Biographies: This classic approach provides a comprehensive account of a person’s life through the written word. Traditional biographies can be published in print or ebooks , allowing readers to engage deeply with the subject’s story.
• Multimedia Presentations: In the digital age, multimedia presentations offer a dynamic way to present biographies. Incorporate audio, video, photographs, and interactive elements to enhance the audience’s experience.
• Online Platforms: Online platforms, such as blogs or dedicated biography websites, provide accessible avenues for sharing biographies. They allow for easy updates, reader engagement, and the incorporation of multimedia elements. 

Choose your subject and conduct research

To create a vivid and accurate portrayal of a person’s life, conduct extensive research. Dive into archives, read letters, examine diaries, explore photographs, and immerse yourself in the historical and cultural context surrounding your subject. This will help you unearth the small details that breathe life into your biography. 

Whether you’re writing a biography about a historical figure, contemporary icon, or everyday individual, you’ll want to consider the different factors to focus on. Here are some examples of three types of individuals and the kind of research that will be most helpful.

• Historical Figures: When writing about historical figures, immerse yourself in their era. Understand the social, political, and cultural forces that shaped their lives. I recommend visiting your local library and connecting with a research librarian for support. Otherwise, other tools for historical research include Google Scholar. Analyze primary sources and multiple perspectives to present a well-rounded account.
• Contemporary Icons: Biographies of modern icons offer a chance to delve into their ongoing impact. Conduct interviews or gather insights from their close associates to understand their present-day influence. Stay current with the latest developments, and be prepared to update your work as the subject’s story unfolds.
• Everyday Individuals: Biographies need not be reserved for the famous. Every day individuals possess stories that can be just as compelling. Uncover the extraordinary within the ordinary, highlighting the struggles, triumphs, and personal growth of individuals who might otherwise remain unsung.
• Yourself! Want to write a biography on yourself? Autobiographies are a great way to explore who you are. Get ready to do some serious self-reflection with the steps below.

Pro Tip: Compile your research digitally using helpful cloud filings systems like Google Drive , OneDrive , or Dropbox . Organize your files by category, including information about their youth, family, achievements, and life lessons. You may also choose to write down research references or collect paper clippings on note cards, categorizing your physical files of research along the way.

Develop compelling themes and motifs 

Identify overarching themes or motifs that emerge from the subject’s life. These could be resilience, ambition, love, or societal change. Weave these elements into the narrative, highlighting their significance and impact on the person’s journey. Here are some examples:

• Overcoming Adversity: These biographies feature perseverance, resilience, and determination. Examples include Helen Keller, Nelson Mandela, and Malala Yousafzai.
• Pursuit of Excellence: These biographies highlight people who have worked tirelessly to achieve their goals. Examples include Steve Jobs, Serena Williams, and Michael Jordan.
• Quest for Knowledge: These biographies focus on the curiosity that led to significant contributions to our world. Examples include Albert Einstein, Marie Curie, and Charles Darwin.
• Personal Transformation: These biographies explore a change in beliefs, values, or priorities. Examples include Malcolm X, Oprah Winfrey, and Maya Angelou.
• Legacy and Impact: These biographies examine a body of work that made a lasting contribution to society. Examples include Martin Luther King Jr., Mother Teresa, and Mahatma Gandhi.

Conduct relevant interviews 

Whenever possible, seek firsthand accounts from those who knew or interacted with the subject. Conduct interviews with family members, friends, colleagues, or experts in the field. Their insights and anecdotes can provide a deeper understanding of the person’s character and experiences.

When conducting interviews for a biography, consider the following tips to ensure a productive and insightful conversation:

• Familiarize yourself with the interviewee’s background and accomplishments.
• Develop a list of well-thought-out questions that cover key aspects of their lives and experiences, including questions about your subject’s youth, family, achievements, and life transitions or struggles.
• Begin the interview by establishing a comfortable and friendly atmosphere to put the interviewee at ease.
• Show genuine interest in their story and listen actively to their responses.
• Ask open-ended questions encouraging detailed and reflective responses.
• Avoid yes/no questions and ask for their insights, memories, and personal perspectives.
• Some topics you might consider for your questions include early life, achievements, challenges, motivations, values, relationships, lessons learned, and advice.
• Pay close attention to the interviewee’s answers, body language, and tone of voice.
• Ask follow-up questions to clarify or delve deeper into specific topics.
• Show empathy and understanding, creating a safe space for the interviewee to share personal or sensitive information.
• Remain flexible during the interview, allowing the conversation to flow naturally.
• Be prepared to deviate from your prepared questions if unexpected but relevant topics arise.
• Respect the interviewee’s boundaries and be mindful of any topics they may not wish to discuss.
• Take thorough and organized notes during the interview to capture important details.
• Consider recording the interview (with permission) to ensure accurate quotes and references.
• Ask for permission to follow up with additional questions or for clarification.
• Doing a biography on yourself? Ask yourself deep questions to harvest new stories and anecdotes.

Remember, the goal of the interview is to gather valuable information and personal perspectives that will contribute to the authenticity and depth of your biography. Approach the interview process with sensitivity, respect, and genuine curiosity about the interviewee’s life and experiences.

Develop a clear structure

Outline your biography, ensuring a logical and engaging narrative flow. Consider the chronological order, significant milestones, and turning points in the subject’s life. Organize your gathered information to capture the essence of their journey while maintaining a compelling rhythm throughout. 

A good outline for a biography can vary depending on the specific subject and the desired structure of the narrative. However, here’s a general outline that can serve as a starting point:

A. Introduction

a) Hook or engaging opening to capture the reader’s attention

b) Background information (birthplace, date, family, etc.)

c) A brief overview of the subject’s significance or why they are worth exploring

B. Early Life and Background

a) Childhood and upbringing

b) Influences, such as family, education, or cultural factors

c) Formative experiences or events that shaped the subject’s character or interests

C. Major Achievements and Milestones

a) A chronological exploration of the subject’s notable accomplishments, contributions, or milestones

b) Focus on key moments or achievements that highlight their impact or significance.

c) Provide context and details to paint a vivid picture of their achievements

D. Challenges and Obstacles

a) Discussion of the challenges, setbacks, or adversities the subject encountered

b) How they overcame obstacles or grew through difficult experiences

c) Insights into their resilience, determination, or problem-solving abilities

E. Personal Life and Relationships

a) Exploration of the subject’s relationships, such as family, friends, or romantic partners

b) Insights into their personal joys, struggles, or transformative experiences

c) How their personal life intersected with their professional or public achievements

F. Legacy and Impact

a) Examination of the subject’s lasting influence, contributions, or impact on society

b) Discuss how their work or actions continue to resonate or shape the world today

c) Reflection on their legacy and the lessons we can learn from their life story

G. Conclusion

a) Summarize the key aspects of the subject’s life and their significance

b) Provide a final reflection or insight on their overall journey or impact

c) Leave the reader with a lasting impression or call to action

Pro Tip: Looking for help drafting an outline to get you started? Use free tools like ChatGPT to jumpstart your outline by putting in a prompt request like, “Write an outline for a biography about X, including any relevant details on the subject that should be included.”

Craft captivating prose

Employ descriptive language to transport readers into the subject’s world. Paint vivid portraits of their physical appearance, mannerisms, and surroundings. Use sensory details to evoke emotions and create a strong connection between the reader and the subject. 

Here are some examples:

• “She was a force of nature, with a fierce determination and an unwavering commitment to justice.” (Ruth Bader Ginsburg)
• “His piercing blue eyes seemed to look right through you, and his voice had a commanding presence that demanded attention.” (Winston Churchill)
• “She moved with a grace and elegance that belied her inner strength and resilience.” (Audrey Hepburn)
• “His rugged features and piercing gaze made him a natural leading man, but it was his depth and vulnerability that set him apart.” (Marlon Brando)
• “She had a contagious energy and a magnetic personality that drew people to her like a moth to a flame.” (Princess Diana)
• “His quiet intensity and unwavering dedication to his craft made him one of the greatest artists of his time.” (Leonardo da Vinci)

Action Step: While writing descriptive prose takes some practice, it’s an art you can master with little creative writing skills. To help you write descriptive prose, practice closing your eyes and imagining your subject. 

• What expression is on their face? 
• How are they dressed? 
• What does their body language express? 
• How do they smell? 
• How do they make you feel? 
• How do they make others feel? 
• What’s in their surroundings? 
• What are they doing with their hands? 
• What do you imagine they’re thinking about? 

With questions like these, you’ll start to use descriptive language to bring your subject to life.

Build a balance of objectivity and empathy

Strive for an objective portrayal while infusing empathy and understanding into your writing. Remain aware of biases and preconceived notions, giving your subject the space to shine in their unique light. 

To check yourself, filter your writing and interviewing with these tips:

• Verify Information: Cross-reference information from various sources to ensure accuracy. Use tools like Fact Check Explorer to fact-check claims, dates, and events to avoid errors or inaccuracies that could skew the narrative. 
• Multiple Perspectives: Seek out different viewpoints on the subject. This includes interviewing or reaching out to people with significant interactions or relationships with the subject. Incorporating diverse perspectives can counterbalance biases and provide a broader understanding.
• Empathetic Listening: During interviews or conversations, practice active listening and empathize with the interviewee’s experiences and emotions. This allows you to understand the subject’s perspective and incorporate their insights and feelings into the narrative.
• Contextualize Emotions: When sharing the subject’s emotional experiences or personal struggles, provide sufficient context and background. This helps readers understand the motivations and circumstances behind their actions and allows for empathetic understanding without veering into excessive sentimentality.
• Credible Interpretation: While interpreting the subject’s thoughts, motives, or intentions, be clear about what is factual and what is speculative. Clearly distinguish between evidence-based information and your interpretations to maintain objectivity.
• Respect Boundaries: Be mindful of the subject’s privacy and any requests they may have regarding sensitive or personal information. Respecting their boundaries shows empathy and allows for a respectful portrayal while maintaining the necessary level of objectivity.
• Acknowledge Limitations: Recognize that achieving complete objectivity in a biography is challenging. Biases can inadvertently seep into the narrative. However, by being aware of your biases and consciously presenting a fair and balanced account, you can mitigate their influence.

Respect truth, privacy, and sensitivity

Remember, writing biographies carries ethical responsibilities. It’s important to maintain accuracy through credible research and gain consent while being sensitive to controversial or difficult topics. Here are some considerations:

• Accuracy: Maintain a commitment to truth and accuracy. Verify facts and corroborate information from multiple sources to ensure the reliability of your narrative. Cite your sources and be transparent about any uncertainties or gaps in knowledge.
• Privacy and Consent: Respect the privacy of living individuals mentioned in your biography. Seek consent when sharing personal details or sensitive information. Balance the subject’s right to privacy with the importance of honesty and transparency.
• Sensitivity: Approach sensitive or controversial topics with care and empathy. Consider the potential impact of your words on the subject’s loved ones or affected communities—present differing perspectives without sensationalism or bias.

Writing a Biography FAQs

The length of a biography can vary greatly, depending on the subject and the depth of exploration. Some biographies span a few hundred pages, while others extend to multiple volumes. Focus on capturing the subject’s life’s essence rather than strictly adhering to a predetermined length.

Some common mistakes to avoid when writing a biography include the following: Lack of thorough research or reliance on a single source. Inaccurate or misleading information. Excessive personal bias or projection onto the subject. Neglecting to verify facts or failing to cite sources. Poor organization or a disjointed narrative flow. Neglecting to balance objectivity with empathy. Overloading the biography with irrelevant details or digressions. Failing to respect privacy or ethical considerations.

While chronological order is commonly used in biographies, it is not required. Some biographers employ a thematic approach or explore specific periods or events in the subject’s life. Experiment with different structures to find the most engaging way to tell your subject’s story.

The purpose of writing a biography is to capture and share an individual’s life story. Biographies provide insights into a person’s experiences, achievements, and challenges, offering readers inspiration, knowledge, and understanding. They preserve the legacy of individuals, contribute to historical records, and celebrate the diversity of human lives.

When choosing a subject for your biography, consider someone who inspires you, interests you, or has significantly impacted society. It could be a historical figure, a contemporary icon, or even an everyday individual with a remarkable story. Choose a subject with sufficient available information, access to primary sources or interviews, and a narrative that resonates with you and potential readers.

Key elements to include in a biography are: Early life and background: Provide context about the subject’s upbringing, family, and cultural influences. Achievements and milestones: Highlight notable accomplishments, contributions, and significant events throughout their life. Challenges and struggles: Explore the obstacles they faced, the lessons learned, and how they overcame adversity. Personal characteristics: Describe their personality traits, values, beliefs, and motivations that shaped their actions and decisions. Impact and legacy: Discuss the lasting influence and contributions of the subject, both during their lifetime and beyond.

Including personal anecdotes can add depth and humanize the subject of your biography. However, be selective and ensure that the stories are relevant, contribute to understanding the person’s character or experiences, and align with the overall narrative. Balancing personal anecdotes with factual information is critical to maintaining accuracy and credibility.

Conducting research for a biography involves exploring a variety of sources. Start with primary sources such as personal papers, letters, journals, and interviews with the subject or people who knew them. Secondary sources such as books, articles, and academic papers provide additional context and perspectives. Online databases, archives, libraries, and museums are valuable resources for finding relevant information.

Consult a wide range of sources to ensure a comprehensive and accurate biography. Primary sources, such as personal documents, letters, diaries, and interviews, offer firsthand accounts and unique insights. Secondary sources provide broader context and analysis, including books, articles, scholarly works, and historical records. Remember to evaluate the credibility and reliability of your sources critically.

Organize the information in your biography logically and engagingly. Consider using a chronological structure, starting with the subject’s early life and progressing through significant events and milestones. Alternatively, adopt a thematic approach, grouping related information based on themes or significant aspects of their life. Use clear headings, subheadings, and transitions to guide readers through the narrative flow.

Writing Biographies Key Takeaways

In summary, take note of these ideas and tips before you start writing your biography:

• Biographies hold enduring appeal, offering a glimpse into the human experience across time.
• Thorough research, interviews, and captivating prose are essential for crafting compelling biographies.
• Ethical considerations, such as accuracy, privacy, and sensitivity, are crucial when writing about real people’s lives.
• Choose subjects that genuinely inspire and resonate with you.
• Immerse yourself in the subject’s world to understand their motivations and challenges.
• Develop strong research skills and utilize a wide range of sources.
• Craft a compelling narrative that engages readers from the very first page.
• Seek feedback from trusted sources to refine your writing and storytelling abilities.
• Continuously explore new biographies to broaden your understanding of different styles and approaches.
• Embrace the unique voice and perspective you bring to the storytelling process.

Writing a biography book? Check out this helpful article, How to Write a Book: 10 Questions to Ask Before You Start Writing !

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How to Write a Biography: A Step-by-Step Guide

By Hannah Yang

Table of Contents

What is a biography, a step-by-step guide to writing a biography, tips for how to write a great biography, conclusion on how to write a biography.

Writing a biography can be a rewarding endeavor, but it can also feel a bit daunting if you’ve never written one before.

Whether you’re capturing the life story of a famous person, a family member, or even yourself, creating a compelling biography involves a mix of thorough research, narrative skill, and a personal touch.

So, how exactly do you write a successful biography? 

In this guide, we’ll break down the essentials to help you craft a biography that’s both informative and engaging, as well as our top tips for how to make it truly shine.

A biography is a detailed account of someone’s life.

A well-written biography needs to be objective and accurate. At the same time, it needs to depict more than just the basic facts like birth, education, work, relationships, and death—it should also portray the subject’s personal experience of those events.

So, in addition to being a good researcher, a good biographer also needs to be a good storyteller. You should provide insights into the subject’s personality, motivations, and impact on the world around them.

What’s the Difference Between a Biography, a Memoir, and an Autobiography?

Understanding the distinctions between different genres of life writing is crucial for both writers and readers. Here’s a quick breakdown of the key differences between a biography and other related genres.

Biography: a detailed account of a person’s life, usually written in the third-person POV and supported by extensive research 

Autobiography: a self-written account of the author’s own life, usually written in the first person POV and following a chronological order 

Memoir: a collection of memories that an individual writes about moments or events that took place in their life, usually in the first person POV and in an introspective and personal way

Narrative nonfiction: a book that tells true stories using the techniques of fiction writing, such as character development, narrative arc, and detailed settings

Best Biography Examples to Study

The best way to learn how to write well is to read other successful books within the genre you’re writing. 

Here are five great biographies to add to your reading list. For a longer list, check out our article on the 20 best biographies to read . 

Unbroken: A World War II Story of Survival, Resilience, and Redemption by Laura Hillenbrand: the incredible true story of Louis Zamperini, an Olympian and World War II hero.

Steve Jobs by Walter Isaacson: a comprehensive and engaging account of the Apple co-founder’s life.

Alexander Hamilton by Ron Chernow: the biography that inspired the hit musical, providing a deep dive into Hamilton ’ s life and legacy.

Savage Beauty: The Life of Edna St. Vincent Millay by Nancy Milford: a nuanced story that uncovers the family connection between the three Millay sisters and their mother.

Barracoon by Zora Neale Hurston: the story of Cudjo Lewis, one of the last-known survivors of the Atlantic slave trade.

As with writing any book, writing a biography is a marathon, not a sprint. It’s easier to think of it as a series of smaller steps than as one big challenge to tackle. 

Let’s break down the process step by step.

1. Choose Your Subject

Decide who you want to write about. It could be a well-known celebrity, a historical figure, or someone close to you.

In addition to figuring out who you’re writing about, this is also the step where you figure out why you want to write about them. Why is this a story worth telling, and what makes you interested in it? 

Maybe the subject of your biography overcame major hardships in life to achieve success, and that story will inspire others facing similar struggles. Or maybe they made a really unique contribution to the world that not enough people know about, and you want to shine a bigger spotlight on that impact.

Knowing why you’re telling this story will help you make the right decisions about how to research, outline, draft, and edit your biography.

2. Identify Your Target Audience

Understanding your target audience is a crucial step in writing a good biography. You should tailor your biography to the interests and knowledge level of your audience.

A biography for a general audience will differ from one written for experts in a particular field. For example, two biographies about Emily Dickinson would be vastly different if one is written for young children and the other is written for adult poets. 

3. Conduct Research

Dive deep into your research. Use a variety of sources to get a well-rounded view of your subject’s life. Take detailed notes and organize your findings.

Gather as much information as you can about your subject. This includes primary sources like interviews, letters, and diaries, as well as secondary sources such as books, articles, and documentaries.

Here are some primary sources to look for: 

Letters and diaries: These provide intimate insights into the subject’s thoughts, feelings, and daily life, and can often be found in family archives, libraries, and historical societies.

Birth, marriage, and death certificates: These documents can provide crucial dates and familial relationships.

Census data: Census records can provide demographic information and track changes over time.

Property records: These can reveal where the subject lived and owned property.

Employment and school records: These records offer formalized insights into the subject’s education and career.

Military records: If applicable, military records can provide information on service, ranks, and honors.

Photos and videos: Look for photographs and videos in public libraries, historical societies, online databases like the Library of Congress, and family photo albums.

Historical newspapers: Access archives of local and national newspapers for articles, interviews, and obituaries related to the subject.

Digital archives: Use online resources like ProQuest, Chronicling America, and newspaper databases available through public libraries.

You can also look for secondary sources, which provide more context and perspective, such as:

Existing biographies: Search for existing biographies and books about the subject or their era. How does your project stand out from the crowd? 

Academic articles and papers: Access journals through university libraries, which often have extensive collections of scholarly articles.

Documentaries and biographical films: You can often find these on streaming services or public television archives.

Websites and blogs: Look for reputable websites and blogs dedicated to the subject or related fields.

Social media platforms: The things people say on social media can offer insights into public perception about your subject.

Finally, you can also conduct your own interviews. Talk to the subject if they’re still alive, as well as their friends, family, and colleagues. You can ask them for personal anecdotes to add more color to your book, or more information to fill in any gaps in your knowledge. 

4. Ask Engaging Questions

Great biographers start from a place of curiosity. Before you start writing, you should know the answers to the following questions: 

What makes your subject’s story worth telling?

What was your subject’s childhood like? 

What were your subject’s early interests and hobbies?

What level of education did your subject achieve and where did they study?

What was your subject’s personality like?

What were their beliefs and values? 

How did your subject’s personality and beliefs change over time?

What were the major turning points in your subject’s life? 

How was your subject affected by the major political, cultural, and societal events that occurred throughout their life?  

What did their career path look like?

What were their major accomplishments? 

What were their major failures? 

How did they contribute to their field, their country, or their community?

Were they involved in any major controversies or scandals?

Who were the most important people in the subject’s life, such as friends, partners, or mentors?

If the subject is no longer living, how did they pass away?

What lasting impact did the subject leave behind? 

5. Create an Outline

An outline helps you structure your biography. You can write an extensive outline that includes every scene you need to write, or you can keep it simple and just make a list of high-level bullet points—whatever works best for your writing process. 

The best structure to use will depend on the shape of the story you’re trying to tell. Think about what your subject’s life looked like and what core messages you’re trying to leave the reader with.

If you want to keep things simple, you can simply go in chronological order. Tell the story from the birth of your subject to the death of your subject, or to the present day if this person is still living. 

You can also use a more thematically organized structure, similar to what you would find on a Wikipedia page. You could break your book down into sections such as major life events, personal relationships, core accomplishments, challenges, and legacy.

Or, if you want to be more creative, you can use a nonlinear story structure, jumping between recent events and older flashbacks based on which events feel thematically tied together. 

6. Write Your First Draft 

Now that you have an outline, it’s time to sit down and write your first draft.

Your opening chapters should hook the reader and give a preview of what’s to come. Highlight a compelling aspect of the subject’s life to draw readers in.

In your middle chapters, cover all the key events you need to include about your subject’s life and weave in themes and anecdotes that reveal their personality and impact.

In your final chapters, wrap up your biography by summarizing the subject’s legacy and reflecting on their overall significance. This provides closure and leaves the reader with a lasting impression.

Remember that it’s okay if your first draft isn’t perfect. Your goal is simply to get words down on the page so you have something to edit. 

7. Make Developmental Revisions

Now that you’re done with your first draft, it’s time to make big-picture revisions.

Review your biography for coherence and organization. Does the overall structure make sense? Are there any arcs or themes that aren’t given enough attention? Are there scenes or chapters that don’t need to be included? 

8. Make Line Edits

Once you’ve completed your developmental edits, it’s time to make smaller line edits. This is your time to edit for grammar, punctuation, and style.

Make sure you keep a consistent voice throughout the book. Some biographies feel more conversational and humorous, while others are serious and sophisticated. 

To get through your editing faster, you can run your manuscript through ProWritingAid , which will automatically catch errors, point out stylistic inconsistencies, and help you rephrase confusing sentences. 

Don’t be afraid to ask others for feedback. No good book is written in a vacuum, and you can ask critique partners and beta readers to help you improve your work.

What makes a great biography stand out from the rest? Here are our best tips for how to take your manuscript to the next level.

Tip 1: Focus on Key Themes

Identify the central themes or patterns in the subject’s life—the ones that will really make readers keep thinking about your book. These could be related to the subject’s struggles, achievements, relationships, or values.

Tip 2: Balance Facts and Narrative

A good biography should read like a story, not a list of facts.

Use narrative techniques like imagery, character development, and dialogue to create a compelling and coherent story.

Tip 3: Add Your Own Perspective

Biographies need to be objective, but that doesn’t mean the author has to be entirely invisible. Including your own perspective can make the biography relatable and engaging. 

Letting your voice shine can help illustrate the subject ’ s character and bring their story to life. It will also help make your biography stand out from the crowd. 

Tip 4: Create a Timeline

Organize the key events of the subject’s life in chronological order. This will help you see the bigger picture and ensure you cover all important aspects.

Tip 5: Be Considerate

Because biographies are about real people, you should be mindful of who will be impacted by the story you’re telling, especially if your subject is still alive or still has living family members.

If the subject is still alive, ask them for permission to tell their story before you start writing. This also helps ensure that you don’t get sued. 

Writing a biography is a journey of discovery, not just about the subject, but also about the craft of storytelling.

By combining thorough research, a clear structure, and engaging narrative techniques, you can create a biography that not only informs but also inspires and captivates your readers. 

Don’t forget to run your manuscript through ProWritingAid so you can make sure your prose is as polished as possible. 

Now, pick your subject, gather your resources, and start writing—there’s a fascinating story waiting to be told.

Good luck, and happy writing!

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Hannah Yang

Hannah Yang is a speculative fiction writer who writes about all things strange and surreal. Her work has appeared in Analog Science Fiction, Apex Magazine, The Dark, and elsewhere, and two of her stories have been finalists for the Locus Award. Her favorite hobbies include watercolor painting, playing guitar, and rock climbing. You can follow her work on hannahyang.com, or subscribe to her newsletter for publication updates.

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How to Write a Biography

Biographies are big business. Whether in book form or Hollywood biopics, the lives of the famous and sometimes not-so-famous fascinate us.

While it’s true that most biographies are about people who are in the public eye, sometimes the subject is less well-known. Primarily, though, famous or not, the person who is written about has led an incredible life.

In this article, we will explain biography writing in detail for teachers and students so they can create their own.

While your students will most likely have a basic understanding of a biography, it’s worth taking a little time before they put pen to paper to tease out a crystal-clear definition of one.

What Is a Biography?

A biography is an account of someone’s life written by someone else . While there is a genre known as a fictional biography, for the most part, biographies are, by definition, nonfiction.

Generally speaking, biographies provide an account of the subject’s life from the earliest days of childhood to the present day or, if the subject is deceased, their death.

The job of a biography is more than just to outline the bare facts of a person’s life.

Rather than just listing the basic details of their upbringing, hobbies, education, work, relationships, and death, a well-written biography should also paint a picture of the subject’s personality and experience of life.

Full Biographies

Teaching unit.

Teach your students everything they need to know about writing an AUTOBIOGRAPHY and a BIOGRAPHY.

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Features of a Biography

Before students begin writing a biography, they’ll need to have a firm grasp of the main features of a Biography. An excellent way to determine how well they understand these essential elements is to ask them to compile a checklist like the one-blow

Their checklists should contain the items below at a minimum. Be sure to help them fill in any gaps before moving on to the writing process.

The purpose of a biography is to provide an account of someone’s life.

Biography structure.

ORIENTATION (BEGINNING) Open your biography with a strong hook to grab the reader’s attention

SEQUENCING: In most cases, biographies are written in chronological order unless you are a very competent writer consciously trying to break from this trend.

COVER: childhood, upbringing, education, influences, accomplishments, relationships, etc. – everything that helps the reader to understand the person.

CONCLUSION: Wrap your biography up with some details about what the subject is doing now if they are still alive. If they have passed away, make mention of what impact they have made and what their legacy is or will be.

BIOGRAPHY FEATURES

LANGUAGE Use descriptive and figurative language that will paint images inside your audience’s minds as they read. Use time connectives to link events.

PERSPECTIVE Biographies are written from the third person’s perspective.

DETAILS: Give specific details about people, places, events, times, dates, etc. Reflect on how events shaped the subject. You might want to include some relevant photographs with captions. A timeline may also be of use depending upon your subject and what you are trying to convey to your audience.

TENSE Written in the past tense (though ending may shift to the present/future tense)

THE PROCESS OF WRITING A BIOGRAPHY

Like any form of writing, you will find it simple if you have a plan and follow it through. These steps will ensure you cover the essential bases of writing a biography essay.

Firstly, select a subject that inspires you. Someone whose life story resonates with you and whose contribution to society intrigues you. The next step is to conduct thorough research. Engage in extensive reading, explore various sources, watch documentaries, and glean all available information to provide a comprehensive account of the person’s life.

Creating an outline is essential to organize your thoughts and information. The outline should include the person’s early life, education, career, achievements, and any other significant events or contributions. It serves as a map for the writing process, ensuring that all vital information is included.

Your biography should have an engaging introduction that captivates the reader’s attention and provides background information on the person you’re writing about. It should include a thesis statement summarising the biography’s main points.

Writing a biography in chronological order is crucial . You should begin with the person’s early life and move through their career and achievements. This approach clarifies how the person’s life unfolded and how they accomplished their goals.

A biography should be written in a narrative style , capturing the essence of the person’s life through vivid descriptions, anecdotes, and quotes. Avoid dry, factual writing and focus on creating a compelling narrative that engages the reader.

Adding personal insights and opinions can enhance the biography’s overall impact, providing a unique perspective on the person’s achievements, legacy, and impact on society.

Editing and proofreading are vital elements of the writing process. Thoroughly reviewing your biography ensures that the writing is clear, concise, and error-free. You can even request feedback from someone else to ensure that it is engaging and well-written.

Finally, including a bibliography at the end of your biography is essential. It gives credit to the sources that were used during research, such as books, articles, interviews, and websites.

Tips for Writing a Brilliant Biography

Biography writing tip #1: choose your subject wisely.

There are several points for students to reflect on when deciding on a subject for their biography. Let’s take a look at the most essential points to consider when deciding on the subject for a biography:

Interest: To produce a biography will require sustained writing from the student. That’s why students must choose their subject well. After all, a biography is an account of someone’s entire life to date. Students must ensure they choose a subject that will sustain their interest throughout the research, writing, and editing processes.

Merit: Closely related to the previous point, students must consider whether the subject merits the reader’s interest. Aside from pure labors of love, writing should be undertaken with the reader in mind. While producing a biography demands sustained writing from the author, it also demands sustained reading from the reader.

Therefore, students should ask themselves if their chosen subject has had a life worthy of the reader’s interest and the time they’d need to invest in reading their biography.

Information: Is there enough information available on the subject to fuel the writing of an entire biography? While it might be a tempting idea to write about a great-great-grandfather’s experience in the war. There would be enough interest there to sustain the author’s and the reader’s interest, but do you have enough access to information about their early childhood to do the subject justice in the form of a biography?

Biography Writing Tip #2: R esearch ! Research! Research!

While the chances are good that the student already knows quite a bit about the subject they’ve chosen. Chances are 100% that they’ll still need to undertake considerable research to write their biography.

As with many types of writing , research is an essential part of the planning process that shouldn’t be overlooked. If students wish to give as complete an account of their subject’s life as possible, they’ll need to put in the time at the research stage.

An effective way to approach the research process is to:

1. Compile a chronological timeline of the central facts, dates, and events of the subject’s life

2. Compile detailed descriptions of the following personal traits:

•      Physical looks
•      Character traits
•      Values and beliefs

3. Compile some research questions based on different topics to provide a focus for the research:

• Childhood : Where and when were they born? Who were their parents? Who were the other family members? What education did they receive?
• Obstacles: What challenges did they have to overcome? How did these challenges shape them as individuals?
• Legacy: What impact did this person have on the world and/or the people around them?
• Dialogue & Quotes: Dialogue and quotations by and about the subject are a great way to bring color and life to a biography. Students should keep an eagle eye out for the gems that hide amid their sources.

As the student gets deeper into their research, new questions will arise that can further fuel the research process and help to shape the direction the biography will ultimately go in.

Likewise, during the research, themes will often begin to suggest themselves. Exploring these themes is essential to bring depth to biography, but we’ll discuss this later in this article.

Research Skills:

Researching for biography writing is an excellent way for students to hone their research skills in general. Developing good research skills is essential for future academic success. Students will have opportunities to learn how to:

• Gather relevant information
• Evaluate different information sources
• Select suitable information
• Organize information into a text.

Students will have access to print and online information sources, and, in some cases, they may also have access to people who knew or know the subject (e.g. biography of a family member).

These days, much of the research will likely take place online. It’s crucial, therefore, to provide your students with guidance on how to use the internet safely and evaluate online sources for reliability. This is the era of ‘ fake news ’ and misinformation after all!

COMPLETE TEACHING UNIT ON INTERNET RESEARCH SKILLS USING GOOGLE SEARCH

Teach your students ESSENTIAL SKILLS OF THE INFORMATION ERA to become expert DIGITAL RESEARCHERS.

⭐How to correctly ask questions to search engines on all devices.

⭐ How to filter and refine your results to find exactly what you want every time.

⭐ Essential Research and critical thinking skills for students.

⭐ Plagiarism, Citing and acknowledging other people’s work.

⭐ How to query, synthesize and record your findings logically.

BIOGRAPHY WRITING Tip #3: Find Your Themes In Biography Writing

Though predominantly a nonfiction genre, the story still plays a significant role in good biography writing. The skills of characterization and plot structuring are transferable here. And, just like in fiction, exploring themes in a biographical work helps connect the personal to the universal. Of course, these shouldn’t be forced; this will make the work seem contrived, and the reader may lose faith in the truthfulness of the account. A biographer needs to gain and maintain the trust of the reader.

Fortunately, themes shouldn’t need to be forced. A life well-lived is full of meaning, and the themes the student writer is looking for will emerge effortlessly from the actions and events of the subject’s life. It’s just a case of learning how to spot them.

One way to identify the themes in a life is to look for recurring events or situations in a person’s life. These should be apparent from the research completed previously. The students should seek to identify these patterns that emerge in the subject’s life. For example, perhaps they’ve had to overcome various obstacles throughout different periods of their life. In that case, the theme of overcoming adversity is present and has been identified.

Usually, a biography has several themes running throughout, so be sure your students work to identify more than one theme in their subject’s life.

BIOGRAPHY WRITING Tip: #4 Put Something of Yourself into the Writing

While the defining feature of a biography is that it gives an account of a person’s life, students must understand that this is not all a biography does. Relating the facts and details of a subject’s life is not enough. The student biographer should not be afraid to share their thoughts and feelings with the reader throughout their account of their subject’s life.

The student can weave some of their personality into the fabric of the text by providing commentary and opinion as they relate the events of the person’s life and the wider social context at the time. Unlike the detached and objective approach we’d expect to find in a history textbook, in a biography, student-writers should communicate their enthusiasm for their subject in their writing.

This makes for a more intimate experience for the reader, as they get a sense of getting to know the author and the subject they are writing about.

Biography Examples For Students

• Year 5 Example
• Year 7 Example
• Year 9 Example

“The Rock ‘n’ Roll King: Elvis Presley”

Elvis Aaron Presley, born on January 8, 1935, was an amazing singer and actor known as the “King of Rock ‘n’ Roll.” Even though he’s been dead for nearly 50 years, I can’t help but be fascinated by his incredible life!

Elvis grew up in Tupelo, Mississippi, in a tiny house with his parents and twin brother. His family didn’t have much money, but they shared a love for music. Little did they know Elvis would become a music legend!

When he was only 11 years old, Elvis got his first guitar. He taught himself to play and loved singing gospel songs. As he got older, he started combining different music styles like country, blues, and gospel to create a whole new sound – that’s Rock ‘n’ Roll!

In 1954, at the age of 19, Elvis recorded his first song, “That’s All Right.” People couldn’t believe how unique and exciting his music was. His famous hip-swinging dance moves also made him a sensation!

Elvis didn’t just rock the music scene; he also starred in movies like “Love Me Tender” and “Jailhouse Rock.” But fame came with challenges. Despite facing ups and downs, Elvis kept spreading happiness through his music.

Tragically, Elvis passed away in 1977, but his music and charisma live on. Even today, people worldwide still enjoy his songs like “Hound Dog” and “Can’t Help Falling in Love.” Elvis Presley’s legacy as the King of Rock ‘n’ Roll will live forever.

Long Live the King: I wish I’d seen him.

Elvis Presley, the Rock ‘n’ Roll legend born on January 8, 1935, is a captivating figure that even a modern-day teen like me can’t help but admire. As I delve into his life, I wish I could have experienced the magic of his live performances.

Growing up in Tupelo, Mississippi, Elvis faced challenges but found solace in music. At 11, he got his first guitar, a symbol of his journey into the world of sound. His fusion of gospel, country, and blues into Rock ‘n’ Roll became a cultural phenomenon.

The thought of being in the audience during his early performances, especially when he recorded “That’s All Right” at 19, sends shivers down my spine. Imagining the crowd’s uproar and feeling the revolutionary energy of that moment is a dream I wish I could have lived.

Elvis wasn’t just a musical prodigy; he was a dynamic performer. His dance moves, the embodiment of rebellion, and his roles in films like “Love Me Tender” and “Jailhouse Rock” made him a true icon.

After watching him on YouTube, I can’t help but feel a little sad that I’ll never witness the King’s live performances. The idea of swaying to “Hound Dog” or being enchanted by “Can’t Help Falling in Love” in person is a missed opportunity. Elvis may have left us in 1977, but he was the king of rock n’ roll. Long live the King!

Elvis Presley: A Teen’s Take on the Rock ‘n’ Roll Icon”

Elvis Presley, born January 8, 1935, was a revolutionary force in the music world, earning his title as the “King of Rock ‘n’ Roll.” Exploring his life, even as a 16-year-old today, I’m captivated by the impact he made.

Hailing from Tupelo, Mississippi, Elvis grew up in humble beginnings, surrounded by the love of his parents and twin brother. It’s inspiring to think that, despite financial challenges, this young man would redefine the music scene.

At 11, Elvis got his first guitar, sparking a self-taught journey into music. His early gospel influences evolved into a unique fusion of country, blues, and gospel, creating the electrifying genre of Rock ‘n’ Roll. In 1954, at only 19, he recorded “That’s All Right,” marking the birth of a musical legend.

Elvis wasn’t just a musical innovator; he was a cultural phenomenon. His rebellious dance moves and magnetic stage presence challenged the norms. He transitioned seamlessly into acting, starring in iconic films like “Love Me Tender” and “Jailhouse Rock.”

However, fame came at a cost, and Elvis faced personal struggles. Despite the challenges, his music continued to resonate. Even now, classics like “Hound Dog” and “Can’t Help Falling in Love” transcend generations.

Elvis Presley’s impact on music and culture is undeniable. He was known for his unique voice, charismatic persona, and electrifying performances. He sold over one billion records worldwide, making him one of the best-selling solo artists in history. He received numerous awards throughout his career, including three Grammy Awards and the Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award.

Elvis’s influence can still be seen in today’s music. Many contemporary artists, such as Bruno Mars, Lady Gaga, and Justin Timberlake, have cited Elvis as an inspiration. His music continues to be featured in movies, TV shows, and commercials.

Elvis left us in 1977, but his legacy lives on. I appreciate his breaking barriers and fearlessly embracing his artistic vision. Elvis Presley’s impact on music and culture is timeless, a testament to the enduring power of his artistry. His music has inspired generations and will continue to do so for many years to come.

Teaching Resources

Use our resources and tools to improve your student’s writing skills through proven teaching strategies.

BIOGRAPHY WRITING TEACHING IDEAS AND LESSONS

We have compiled a sequence of biography-related lessons or teaching ideas that you can follow as you please. They are straightforward enough for most students to follow without further instruction.

BIOGRAPHY LESSON IDEA # 1:

This session aims to give students a broader understanding of what makes a good biography.

Once your students have compiled a comprehensive checklist of the main features of a biography, allow them to use it to assess some biographies from your school library or on the internet using the feature checklist.

When students have assessed a selection of biographies, take some time as a class to discuss them. You can base the discussion around the following prompts:

• Which biographies covered all the criteria from their checklist?
• Which biographies didn’t?
• Which biography was the most readable in terms of structure?
• Which biography do you think was the least well-structured? How would you improve this?

Looking at how other writers have interpreted the form will help students internalize the necessary criteria before attempting to produce a biography. Once students have a clear understanding of the main features of the biography, they’re ready to begin work on writing a biography.

When the time does come to put pen to paper, be sure they’re armed with the following top tips to help ensure they’re as well prepared as possible.

BIOGRAPHY LESSON IDEA # 2:

This session aims to guide students through the process of selecting the perfect biography subject.

Instruct students to draw up a shortlist of three potential subjects for the biography they’ll write.

Using the three criteria mentioned in the writing guide (Interest, Merit, and Information), students award each potential subject a mark out of 5 for each of the criteria. In this manner, students can select the most suitable subject for their biography.

BIOGRAPHY LESSON IDEA # 3:

This session aims to get students into the researching phase, then prioritise and organise events chronologically.

Students begin by making a timeline of their subject’s life, starting with their birth and ending with their death or the present day. If the student has yet to make a final decision on the subject of their biography, a family member will often serve well for this exercise as a practice exercise.

Students should research and gather the key events of the person’s life, covering each period of their life from when they were a baby, through childhood and adolescence, right up to adulthood and old age. They should then organize these onto a timeline. Students can include photographs with captions if they have them.

They can present these to the class when they have finished their timelines.

BIOGRAPHY LESSON IDEA # 4:

Instruct students to look over their timeline, notes, and other research. Challenge them to identify three patterns that repeat throughout the subject’s life and sort all the related events and incidents into specific categories.

Students should then label each category with a single word. This is the thematic concept or the broad general underlying idea. After that, students should write a sentence or two expressing what the subject’s life ‘says’ about that concept.

This is known as the thematic statement . With the thematic concepts and thematic statements identified, the student now has some substantial ideas to explore that will help bring more profound meaning and wider resonance to their biography.

BIOGRAPHY LESSON IDEA # 5:

Instruct students to write a short objective account of an event in their own life. They can write about anyone from their past. It needn’t be more than a couple of paragraphs, but the writing should be strictly factual, focusing only on the objective details of what happened.

Once they have completed this, it’s time to rewrite the paragraph, but they should include some opinion and personal commentary this time.

The student here aims to inject some color and personality into their writing, to transform a detached, factual account into a warm, engaging story.

A COMPLETE UNIT ON TEACHING BIOGRAPHIES

Teach your students to write AMAZING BIOGRAPHIES & AUTOBIOGRAPHIES using proven RESEARCH SKILLS and WRITING STRATEGIES .

• Understand the purpose of both forms of biography.
• Explore the language and perspective of both.
• Prompts and Challenges to engage students in writing a biography.
• Dedicated lessons for both forms of biography.
• Biographical Projects can expand students’ understanding of reading and writing a biography.
• A COMPLETE 82-PAGE UNIT – NO PREPARATION REQUIRED.

FREE Biography Writing Graphic Organizer

Use this valuable tool in the research and writing phases to keep your students on track and engaged.

WRITING CHECKLIST & RUBRIC BUNDLE

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To Conclude

By this stage, your students should have an excellent technical overview of a biography’s essential elements.

They should be able to choose their subject in light of how interesting and worthy they are, as well as give consideration to the availability of information out there. They should be able to research effectively and identify emerging themes in their research notes. And finally, they should be able to bring some of their personality and uniqueness into their retelling of the life of another.

Remember that writing a biography is not only a great way to develop a student’s writing skills; it can be used in almost all curriculum areas. For example, to find out more about a historical figure in History, to investigate scientific contributions to Science, or to celebrate a hero from everyday life.

Biography is an excellent genre for students to develop their writing skills and to find inspiration in the lives of others in the world around them.

HOW TO WRITE A BIOGRAPHY TUTORIAL VIDEO

OTHER GREAT ARTICLES RELATED TO BIOGRAPHY WRITING

How to write an Autobiography

How to Write a Historical Recount Text

15 Awesome Recount & Personal Narrative Topics

Personal Narrative Writing Guide

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Posted on Jun 30, 2023

How to Write a Biography: A 7-Step Guide [+Template]

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Reedsy's editorial team is a diverse group of industry experts devoted to helping authors write and publish beautiful books.

About Dario Villirilli

Editor-in-Chief of the Reedsy blog, Dario is a graduate of Mälardalen University. As a freelance writer, he has written for many esteemed outlets aimed at writers. A traveler at heart, he can be found roaming the world and working from his laptop.

From time to time, nonfiction authors become so captivated by a particular figure from either the present or the past, that they feel compelled to write an entire book about their life. Whether casting them as heroes or villains, there is an interesting quality in their humanity that compels these authors to revisit their life paths and write their story.

However, portraying someone’s life on paper in a comprehensive and engaging way requires solid preparation. If you’re looking to write a biography yourself, in this post we’ll share a step-by-step blueprint that you can follow. 

How to write a biography: 

1. Seek permission when possible 

2. research your subject thoroughly, 3. do interviews and visit locations, 4. organize your findings, 5. identify a central thesis, 6. write it using narrative elements, 7. get feedback and polish the text.

FREE RESOURCE

Biography Outline Template

Craft a satisfying story arc for your biography with our free template.

While you technically don’t need permission to write about public figures (or deceased ones), that doesn't guarantee their legal team won't pursue legal action against you. Author Kitty Kelley was sued by Frank Sinatra before she even started to write His Way , a biography that paints Ol Blue Eyes in a controversial light. (Kelley ended up winning the lawsuit, however).  

Whenever feasible, advise the subject’s representatives of your intentions. If all goes according to plan, you’ll get a green light to proceed, or potentially an offer to collaborate. It's a matter of common sense; if someone were to write a book about you, you would likely want to know about it well prior to publication. So, make a sincere effort to reach out to their PR staff to negotiate an agreement or at least a mutual understanding of the scope of your project. 

At the same time, make sure that you still retain editorial control over the project, and not end up writing a puff piece that treats its protagonist like a saint or hero. No biography can ever be entirely objective, but you should always strive for a portrayal that closely aligns with facts and reality.

If you can’t get an answer from your subject, or you’re asked not to proceed forward, you can still accept the potential repercussions and write an unauthorized biography . The “rebellious act” of publishing without consent indeed makes for great marketing, though it’ll likely bring more headaches with it too. 

✋ Please note that, like other nonfiction books, if you intend to release your biography with a publishing house , you can put together a book proposal to send to them before you even write the book. If they like it enough, they might pay you an advance to write it.  

Book Proposal Template

Craft a professional pitch for your nonfiction book with our handy template.

Once you’ve settled (or not) the permission part, it’s time to dive deep into your character’s story.  

Deep and thorough research skills are the cornerstone of every biographer worth their salt. To paint a vivid and accurate portrait of someone's life, you’ll have to gather qualitative information from a wide range of reliable sources. 

Start with the information already available, from books on your subject to archival documents, then collect new ones firsthand by interviewing people or traveling to locations. 

Browse the web and library archives

Put your researcher hat on and start consuming any piece on your subject you can find, from their Wikipedia page to news articles, interviews, TV and radio appearances, YouTube videos, podcasts, books, magazines, and any other media outlets they may have been featured in. 

Establish a system to orderly collect the information you find 一 even seemingly insignificant details can prove valuable during the writing process, so be sure to save them. 

Depending on their era, you may find most of the information readily available online, or you may need to search through university libraries for older references. 

For his landmark biography of Alexander Hamilton, Ron Chernow spent untold hours at Columbia University’s library , reading through the Hamilton family papers, visiting the New York Historical Society, as well as interviewing the archivist of the New York Stock Exchange, and so on. The research process took years, but it certainly paid off. Chernow discovered that Hamilton created the first five securities originally traded on Wall Street. This finding, among others, revealed his significant contributions to shaping the current American financial and political systems, a legacy previously often overshadowed by other founding fathers. Today Alexander Hamilton is one of the best-selling biographies of all time, and it has become a cultural phenomenon with its own dedicated musical. 

Besides reading documents about your subject, research can help you understand the world that your subject lived in. 

Try to understand their time and social environment

Many biographies show how their protagonists have had a profound impact on society through their philosophical, artistic, or scientific contributions. But at the same time, it’s worth it as a biographer to make an effort to understand how their societal and historical context influenced their life’s path and work.

An interesting example is Stephen Greenblatt’s Will in the World . Finding himself limited by a lack of verified detail surrounding William Shakespeare's personal life, Greenblatt, instead, employs literary interpretation and imaginative reenactments to transport readers back to the Elizabethan era. The result is a vivid (though speculative) depiction of the playwright's life, enriching our understanding of his world.

Many readers enjoy biographies that transport them to a time and place, so exploring a historical period through the lens of a character can be entertaining in its own right. The Diary of Samuel Pepys became a classic not because people were enthralled by his life as an administrator, but rather from his meticulous and vivid documentation of everyday existence during the Restoration period.

Once you’ve gotten your hands on as many secondary sources as you can find, you’ll want to go hunting for stories first-hand from people who are (or were) close to your subject.

With all the material you’ve been through, by now you should already have a pretty good picture of your protagonist. But you’ll surely have some curiosities and missing dots in their character development to figure out, which you can only get by interviewing primary sources.

Interview friends and associates

This part is more relevant if your subject is contemporary, and you can actually meet up or call with relatives, friends, colleagues, business partners, neighbors, or any other person related to them. 

In writing the popular biography of Steve Jobs, Walter Isaacson interviewed more than one hundred people, including Jobs’s family, colleagues, former college mates, business rivals, and the man himself.

🔍 Read other biographies to get a sense of what makes a great one. Check out our list of the 30 best biographies of all time , or take our 30-second quiz below for tips on which one you should read next. 

Which biography should you read next?

Discover the perfect biography for you. Takes 30 seconds!

When you conduct your interviews, make sure to record them with high quality audio you can revisit later. Then use tools like Otter.ai or Descript to transcribe them 一 it’ll save you countless hours. 

You can approach the interview with a specific set of questions, or follow your curiosity blindly, trying to uncover revealing stories and anecdotes about your subject. Whatever your method, author and biography editor Tom Bromley suggests that every interviewer arrives prepared, "Show that you’ve done your work. This will help to put the interviewee at ease, and get their best answers.” 

Bromley also places emphasis on the order in which you conduct interviews. “You may want to interview different members of the family or friends first, to get their perspective on something, and then go directly to the main interviewee. You'll be able to use that knowledge to ask sharper, more specific questions.” 

Finally, consider how much time you have with each interviewee. If you only have a 30-minute phone call with an important person, make it count by asking directly the most pressing questions you have. And, if you find a reliable source who is also particularly willing to help, conduct several interviews and ask them, if appropriate, to write a foreword as part of the book’s front matter .

Sometimes an important part of the process is packing your bags, getting on a plane, and personally visiting significant places in your character’s journey.

Visit significant places in their life

A place, whether that’s a city, a rural house, or a bodhi tree, can carry a particular energy that you can only truly experience by being there. In putting the pieces together about someone’s life, it may be useful to go visit where they grew up, or where other significant events of their lives happened. It will be easier to imagine what they experienced, and better tell their story. 

In researching The Lost City of Z , author David Grann embarked on a trek through the Amazon, retracing the steps of British explorer Percy Fawcett. This led Grann to develop new theories about the circumstances surrounding the explorer's disappearance.

Hopefully, you won’t have to deal with jaguars and anacondas to better understand your subject’s environment, but try to walk into their shoes as much as possible. 

Once you’ve researched your character enough, it’s time to put together all the puzzle pieces you collected so far. 

Take the bulk of notes, media, and other documents you’ve collected, and start to give them some order and structure. A simple way to do this is by creating a timeline. 

Create a chronological timeline

It helps to organize your notes chronologically 一 from childhood to the senior years, line up the most significant events of your subject’s life, including dates, places, names and other relevant bits. 

You should be able to divide their life into distinct periods, each with their unique events and significance. Based on that, you can start drafting an outline of the narrative you want to create.  

Draft a story outline 

Since a biography entails writing about a person’s entire life, it will have a beginning, a middle, and an end. You can pick where you want to end the story, depending on how consequential the last years of your subject were. But the nature of the work will give you a starting character arc to work with. 

To outline the story then, you could turn to the popular Three-Act Structure , which divides the narrative in three main parts. In a nutshell, you’ll want to make sure to have the following:

• Act 1. Setup : Introduce the protagonist's background and the turning points that set them on a path to achieve a goal. 
• Act 2. Confrontation : Describe the challenges they encounter, both internal and external, and how they rise to them. Then..
• Act 3. Resolution : Reach a climactic point in their story in which they succeed (or fail), showing how they (and the world around them) have changed as a result. 

Only one question remains before you begin writing: what will be the main focus of your biography?

Think about why you’re so drawn to your subject to dedicate years of your life to recounting their own. What aspect of their life do you want to highlight? Is it their evil nature, artistic genius, or visionary mindset? And what evidence have you got to back that up? Find a central thesis or focus to weave as the main thread throughout your narrative. 

Or find a unique angle

If you don’t have a particular theme to explore, finding a distinct angle on your subject’s story can also help you distinguish your work from other biographies or existing works on the same subject.

Plenty of biographies have been published about The Beatles 一 many of which have different focuses and approaches: 

• Philip Norman's Shout is sometimes regarded as leaning more towards a pro-Lennon and anti-McCartney stance, offering insights into the band's inner dynamics. 
• Ian McDonald's Revolution in the Head closely examines their music track by track, shifting the focus back to McCartney as a primary creative force. 
• Craig Brown's One Two Three Four aims to capture their story through anecdotes, fan letters, diary entries, and interviews. 
• Mark Lewisohn's monumental three-volume biography, Tune In , stands as a testament to over a decade of meticulous research, chronicling every intricate detail of the Beatles' journey.

Finally, consider that biographies are often more than recounting the life of a person. Similar to how Dickens’ Great Expectations is not solely about a boy named Pip (but an examination and critique of Britain’s fickle, unforgiving class system), a biography should strive to illuminate a broader truth — be it social, political, or human — beyond the immediate subject of the book. 

Once you’ve identified your main focus or angle, it’s time to write a great story. 

While biographies are often highly informative, they do not have to be dry and purely expository in nature . You can play with storytelling elements to make it an engaging read. 

You could do that by thoroughly detailing the setting of the story , depicting the people involved in the story as fully-fledged characters , or using rising action and building to a climax when describing a particularly significant milestone of the subject’s life. 

One common way to make a biography interesting to read is starting on a strong foot…

Hook the reader from the start

Just because you're honoring your character's whole life doesn't mean you have to begin when they said their first word. Starting from the middle or end of their life can be more captivating as it introduces conflicts and stakes that shaped their journey.

When he wrote about Christopher McCandless in Into the Wild , author Jon Krakauer didn’t open his subject’s childhood and abusive family environment. Instead, the book begins with McCandless hitchhiking his way into the wilderness, and subsequently being discovered dead in an abandoned bus. By starting in the middle of the action  in medias res, Krakauer hooks the reader’s interest, before tracing back the causes and motivations that led McCandless to die alone in that bus in the first place.

You can bend the timeline to improve the reader’s reading experience throughout the rest of the story too…

Play with flashback 

While biographies tend to follow a chronological narrative, you can use flashbacks to tell brief stories or anecdotes when appropriate. For example, if you were telling the story of footballer Lionel Messi, before the climax of winning the World Cup with Argentina, you could recall when he was just 13 years old, giving an interview to a local newspaper, expressing his lifelong dream of playing for the national team. 

Used sparsely and intentionally, flashbacks can add more context to the story and keep the narrative interesting. Just like including dialogue does…

Reimagine conversations

Recreating conversations that your subject had with people around them is another effective way to color the story. Dialogue helps the reader imagine the story like a movie, providing a deeper sensory experience. 

One thing is trying to articulate the root of Steve Jobs’ obsession with product design, another would be to quote his father , teaching him how to build a fence when he was young: “You've got to make the back of the fence just as good looking as the front of the fence. Even though nobody will see it, you will know. And that will show that you're dedicated to making something perfect.”

Unlike memoirs and autobiographies, in which the author tells the story from their personal viewpoint and enjoys greater freedom to recall conversations, biographies require a commitment to facts. So, when recreating dialogue, try to quote directly from reliable sources like personal diaries, emails, and text messages. You could also use your interview scripts as an alternative to dialogue. As Tom Bromley suggests, “If you talk with a good amount of people, you can try to tell the story from their perspective, interweaving different segments and quoting the interviewees directly.”

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These are just some of the story elements you can use to make your biography more compelling. Once you’ve finished your manuscript, it’s a good idea to ask for feedback. 

If you’re going to publish your own  biography, you’ll have to polish it to professional standards. After leaving your work to rest for a while, look at it with fresh eyes and edit your own manuscript eliminating passive voice, filler words, and redundant adverbs. 

Then, have a professional editor give you a general assessment. They’ll look at the structure and shape of your manuscript and tell you which parts need to be expanded on or cut. As someone who edited and commissioned several biographies, Tom Bromley points out that a professional “will look at the sources used and assess whether they back up the points made, or if more are needed. They would also look for context, and whether or not more background information is needed for the reader to understand the story fully. And they might check your facts, too.”  

In addition to structural editing, you may want to have someone copy-edit and proofread your work.

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Importantly, make sure to include a bibliography with a list of all the interviews, documents, and sources used in the writing process. You’ll have to compile it according to a manual of style, but you can easily create one by using tools like EasyBib . Once the text is nicely polished and typeset in your writing applications , you can prepare for the publication process.  

In conclusion, by mixing storytelling elements with diligent research, you’ll be able to breathe life into a powerful biography that immerses readers in another individual’s life experience. Whether that’ll spark inspiration or controversy, remember you could have an important role in shaping their legacy 一 and that’s something not to take lightly. 

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How to Write a Biography

Last Updated: May 28, 2024 Fact Checked

This article was co-authored by Stephanie Wong Ken, MFA . Stephanie Wong Ken is a writer based in Canada. Stephanie's writing has appeared in Joyland, Catapult, Pithead Chapel, Cosmonaut's Avenue, and other publications. She holds an MFA in Fiction and Creative Writing from Portland State University. This article has been fact-checked, ensuring the accuracy of any cited facts and confirming the authority of its sources. This article has been viewed 1,875,947 times.

Writing a biography can be a fun challenge, where you are sharing the story of someone’s life with readers. You may need to write a biography for a class or decide to write one as a personal project. Once you have identified the subject of the biography, do your research so you know as much about them as possible. Then, dive into the writing of the biography and revising it until it is at its finest.

Researching Your Subject

• If the subject does not give you permission to write the biography, you may want to choose a different subject. If you decide to publish the biography without the subject’s permission, you may be susceptible to legal action by the subject.
• If the subject is no longer alive, you obviously do not need to ask permission to write about them.

• You may create research questions to help focus your research of the subject, such as, What do I find interesting about the subject? Why is this subject important to readers? What can I say that is new about the subject? What would I like to learn more about?

• For in person interviews, record them with a tape recorder or a voice recorder on your computer or phone.
• You may need to interview the subject and others several times to get the material you need.

• You may also want to visit areas where the subject made a major decision or breakthrough in their life. Being physically in the area can give you a sense of how the subject might have felt and help you write their experiences more effectively.

• When researching the time period ask yourself: What were the social norms of that time? What was going on economically and politically? How did the social and political climate affect the subject?

• You may also include historical events or moments that affected the subject on the timeline. For example, maybe there was a conflict or civil war that happened during the person’s life that affected their life.

Writing the Biography

• You may end up focusing on particular areas of the person’s life. If you do this, work through a particular period in the person’s life chronologically.

• For example, you may have a thesis statement about focusing on how the person impacted the civil rights movement in America in the 1970s. You can then make sure all your content relates back to this thesis.

• Flashbacks should feel as detailed and real as present day scenes. Use your research notes and interviews with the subject to get a good sense of their past for the flashbacks.
• For example, you may jump from the person’s death in the present to a flashback to their favorite childhood memory.

• For example, you may focus on the person’s accomplishments in the civil rights movement. You may write a whole section about their contributions and participation in major civil rights marches in their hometown.

• For example, you may notice that the person’s life is patterned with moments of adversity, where the person worked hard and fought against larger forces. You can then use the theme of overcoming adversity in the biography.

• For example, you may note how you see parallels in the person’s life during the civil rights movement with your own interests in social justice. You may also commend the person for their hard work and positive impact on society.

Polishing the Biography

• Revise the biography based on feedback from others. Do not be afraid to cut or edit down the biography to suit the needs of your readers.

• Having a biography riddled with spelling, grammar, and punctuation errors can turn off your readers and result in a poor grade if you are handing in the text for a class.

• If the biography is for a class, use MLA , APA , or Chicago Style citations based on the preferences of your instructor.

Biography Help

Community Q&A

• Be careful when publishing private or embarrassing information, especially if the person is not a celebrity. You may violate their "Right of Privacy" or equivalent. Thanks Helpful 31 Not Helpful 5
• Have the sources to back up your statements about the subject's life. Untruthful written statements can lead to litigation. If it is your opinion, be clear that it is such and not fact (although you can support your opinion with facts). Thanks Helpful 16 Not Helpful 15

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• ↑ https://grammar.yourdictionary.com/writing/how-to-write-a-biography.html
• ↑ https://au.indeed.com/career-advice/career-development/how-to-write-a-bio
• ↑ https://www.writersdigest.com/writing-articles/3-tips-for-writing-successful-flashbacks
• ↑ https://www.grammarly.com/blog/how-to-write-bio/
• ↑ https://writingcenter.unc.edu/tips-and-tools/editing-and-proofreading/
• ↑ https://www.plagiarism.org/article/how-do-i-cite-sources

About This Article

Before you write a biography, gather as much information about the subject that you can from sources like newspaper articles, interviews, photos, existing biographies, and anything else you can find. Write the story of that person’s life, including as much supporting detail as you can, including information about the place and time where the person lived. Focus on major events and milestones in their life, including historical events, marriage, children, and events which would shape their path later in life. For tips from our reviewer on proofreading the biography and citing your sources, keep reading! Did this summary help you? Yes No

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How to Write an Interesting Biography

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A biography is a written account of the series of events that make up a person's life. Some of those events are going to be pretty boring, so you'll need to try to make your account as interesting as possible!

Every student will write a biography at some point, but the level of detail and sophistication will differ. A fourth grade biography will be much different from a middle school-level biography or a high school or college-level biography.

However, each biography will include the basic details. The first information you should gather in your research will include biographical details and facts. You must use a trustworthy resource to ensure that your information is accurate.

Using research note cards , collect the following data, carefully recording the source for each piece of information:

Including Basic Details

• Date and place of birth and death
• Family information
• Lifetime accomplishments
• Major events of life
• Effects/impact on society, historical significance

While this information is necessary to your project, these dry facts, on their own, don't really make a very good biography. Once you've found these basics, you'll want to dig a little deeper.

You choose a certain person because you think he or she is interesting, so you certainly don't want to burden your paper with an inventory of boring facts. Your goal is to impress your reader!

Start off with great first sentence . It's a good idea to begin with a really interesting statement, a little-known fact, or really intriguing event.

You should avoid starting out with a standard but boring line like:

"Meriwether Lewis was born in Virginia in 1774."

Instead, try starting with something like this:

"Late one afternoon in October, 1809, Meriwether Lewis arrived at a small log cabin nestled deep in the Tennessee Mountains. By sunrise on the following day, he was dead, having suffered gunshot wounds to the head and chest.

You'll have to make sure your beginning is motivating, but it should also be relevant. The next sentence or two should lead into your thesis statement , or main message of your biography.

"It was a tragic end to a life that had so deeply affected the course of history in the United States. Meriwether Lewis, a driven and often tormented soul, led an expedition of discovery that expanded a young nation's economic potential, increased its scientific understanding, and enhanced its worldwide reputation."

Now that you've created an impressive beginning , you'll want to continue the flow. Find more intriguing details about the man and his work, and weave them into the composition.

Examples of Interesting Details:

• Some people believed that Lewis and Clark would encounter elephants in the western wilderness, having misunderstood the wooly mammoth bones discovered in the United States.
• The expedition resulted in the discovery and description of 122 new animal species and subspecies.
• Lewis was a hypochondriac.
• His death is still an unsolved mystery, although it was ruled a suicide.

You can find interesting facts by consulting diverse sources.

Fill the body of your biography with material that gives insight into your subject's personality. For instance, in a biography about Meriwether Lewis, you would ask what traits or events motivated him to embark on such a monumental exercise.

Questions to Consider in Your Biography:

• Was there something in your subject's childhood that shaped his/her personality?
• Was there a personality trait that drove him/her to succeed or impeded his progress?
• What adjectives would you use to describe him/her?
• What were some turning points in this life?
• What was his/her impact on history?

Be sure to use transitional phrases and words to link your paragraphs and make your composition paragraphs flow . It is normal for good writers to re-arrange their sentences to create a better paper.

The final paragraph will summarize your main points and re-assert your main claim about your subject. It should point out your main points, re-name the person you're writing about, but it should not repeat specific examples.

As always, proofread your paper and check for errors. Create a bibliography and title page according to your teacher's instructions. Consult a style guide for proper documentation.

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Essay Papers Writing Online

How to craft an engaging and insightful biography essay that captivates your readers.

Writing a biography essay can be a challenging task, as it requires capturing the essence of a person’s life in a concise and engaging manner. Whether you are writing a biography for a school assignment or for publication, there are several key tips to keep in mind to ensure that your essay is compelling and well-written.

Research is key: Before you start writing, make sure to thoroughly research the person you are writing about. This includes gathering information about their life, accomplishments, and the historical context in which they lived. The more you know about your subject, the better equipped you will be to craft a detailed and accurate biography.

Focus on the narrative: A biography is a story, so make sure to structure your essay in a way that captures the arc of your subject’s life. Start with an engaging introduction that sets the stage for the rest of the essay, then move on to the main body where you explore key events and experiences in the person’s life. Finally, conclude with a strong ending that ties everything together and leaves a lasting impression on the reader.

Expert Tips for Writing

When crafting a compelling biography essay, consider these expert tips to make your writing stand out:

By following these expert tips, you can create a biography essay that will engage readers and leave a lasting impression.

A Captivating Biography

Writing a captivating biography requires a combination of skill, creativity, and attention to detail. To truly captivate your readers, you must delve deep into the subject’s life story, highlighting key events, challenges, and triumphs that shaped their journey. It’s essential to portray their essence and character through vivid anecdotes, engaging descriptions, and powerful storytelling techniques.

By weaving together facts with emotions, you can create a rich tapestry of narratives that bring the subject to life on the page, allowing readers to connect with them on a personal level. Remember to balance the narrative with well-researched information and ensure that the biography flows smoothly, keeping the reader engaged from start to finish.

Ultimately, a captivating biography is more than just a retelling of events; it’s a celebration of a life lived, a tribute to the extraordinary qualities that make the subject unique and inspiring. Through your writing, you have the power to immortalize their story and leave a lasting impact on those who read it.

Research Your Subject

To craft a compelling biography essay, thorough research on your subject is essential. Dive deep into all available resources, including books, articles, interviews, and any other materials that offer insights into the life of the person you are writing about. Take note of key events, experiences, achievements, and significant moments that shaped their life. By conducting extensive research, you will be able to provide a detailed and accurate portrayal of your subject in your essay.

Gather Key Information

Before you start writing a biography essay, it is crucial to gather all the key information about the person you are writing about. This includes their background, early life, education, career achievements, notable events in their life, personal traits, and any other relevant details that will help paint a clear picture of who they are.

• Research their life history thoroughly, using reputable sources such as biographies, interviews, articles, and documentaries.
• Take note of important dates, locations, and events that shaped their life and career.
• Interview people who knew the person personally to get insights into their character, motivations, and impact on others.

By collecting all this key information, you will be able to create a comprehensive and compelling biography that truly captures the essence of the person you are writing about.

Create a Strong Narrative

One of the key elements of a compelling biography essay is a strong narrative that engages the reader from start to finish. Consider the chronological order of events in the subject’s life and how they connect to form a coherent story. Start by introducing the subject and setting the stage for the narrative to unfold.

Use vivid descriptions and details to bring the subject to life and make their story more relatable to readers. Highlight key milestones, challenges, and achievements in the subject’s life that showcase their character and resilience. Include anecdotes and personal insights that provide a deeper understanding of who the subject is and what drives them.

Structure the narrative in a way that keeps the reader engaged and eager to learn more about the subject’s journey. Consider using storytelling techniques such as foreshadowing, flashbacks, and cliffhangers to maintain suspense and build anticipation. Ultimately, a strong narrative will help bring the subject’s biography to life and make it a memorable read for your audience.

Engage Readers with Stories

One of the most effective ways to make your biography essay compelling is to engage readers with stories. People are naturally drawn to narratives, and weaving personal stories into your biography can create a powerful connection with your audience.

Share anecdotes, experiences, and pivotal moments from the subject’s life that showcase their character, challenges, triumphs, and growth. These stories humanize the subject and help readers relate to them on a personal level.

Remember to use descriptive language, vivid imagery, and emotional detail to immerse readers in the story. By painting a vivid picture of the subject’s life through compelling stories, you can capture the reader’s attention and keep them engaged from start to finish.

Show Your Subject’s Growth

One of the most captivating aspects of a biography is witnessing the growth and development of the subject. Highlight the key milestones, challenges, and transformative moments that shaped your subject’s journey. Show how they evolved as a person, overcame obstacles, and learned from their experiences.

Include details about pivotal moments that influenced their beliefs, values, and decisions. Whether it’s personal growth, professional success, or emotional development, showcasing your subject’s growth adds depth and complexity to their story. Use anecdotes, quotes, and reflections to illustrate their evolution over time.

• Explore how their early experiences shaped their future path.
• Discuss how they dealt with setbacks and challenges along the way.
• Show how they adapted, learned, and grew from their experiences.
• Highlight moments of self-discovery, transformation, and personal growth.

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Highlight Personal Development

One of the key elements to include in a compelling biography essay is the individual’s personal development over time. Highlighting the growth, challenges, and experiences that have shaped the person into who they are today can add depth and authenticity to the narrative. Consider including anecdotes or specific examples that demonstrate how the individual has evolved and overcome obstacles in their journey.

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9 Reasons Why You Should Write an Autobiography

Home » Blog » 9 Reasons Why You Should Write an Autobiography

9 REASONS WHY YOU SHOULD WRITE AN AUTOBIOGRAPHY

Academy Award-winning actor Sidney Poitier once remarked, “My autobiography was simply the story of my life.”

Indeed, an autobiography is testament to a life well-lived. However, some erroneously believe that an autobiography’s subject must be a celebrity or wealthy person.

The truth is that anyone can write an autobiography. After all, there is nothing egocentric about chronicling one’s journey through life. The ups and downs that characterize lives provide sufficient reason to produce an autobiography.

In this article we will explore nine reasons why writing an autobiography is a worthwhile endeavor.

Should I Write an Autobiography? 9 Reasons Why You Should!

1. it provides a legacy for future generations..

A legacy is an important part of a well-lived life. After all, a legacy is an indelible memento that lives on for generations.

As the great poet Maya Angelou put it, “If you’re going to live, leave a legacy. Make a mark on the world that can’t be erased.” Undoubtedly, a legacy can serve as an enduring fingerprint.

Indeed, future generations can recall truly remarkable lives.

Nevertheless, memories tend to fade with time.

Eventually, these amazing lives may get lost in the sands of time. Thus, it is crucial to chronicle such lives in a lasting format.

Consequently, the foremost reason for writing an autobiography is to set the record straight. An autobiography should serve as a personal, first-hand account about valuable life experiences. As such, the enduring legacy morphs into pearls of perpetual wisdom.

An autobiography allows these pearls to move from generation to generation. After all, words recorded on a page cannot fade away easily.

2. It helps you take your place in history.

Every person that has ever existed occupies a place in history. Sadly, the vast majority of them lose their voices over time. Memories fade and die away with each passing generation. And over time, each current generation forgets the contributions their ancestors made in shaping who they are today.

Writing an autobiography enables the author to claim their rightful place in history. Moreover, the author can tell their story in their voice. As a result, autobiographers plant flags that no one can remove. Future generations can then take these flags as the roadmap to a brighter tomorrow.

Greek statesman and general Pericles famously said, “What you leave behind is not what is engraved in stone monuments, but what is woven into the lives of others.”

Unquestionably, time decays even the largest of monuments. Nature can destroy them. However, no force can shatter the fabric of the human spirit.

Time will inexorably pass. With it, memories of great people will perish unless they claim their rightful spot in history. An autobiography is an ideal means of asserting one’s position in the scope of yesteryear.

3. You can better understand your life’s journey.

It is highly common for people to feel disconnected from their identity. After all, it can be somewhat difficult to carve an identity without understanding the journey leading up to the present.

The immortal Greek philosopher Aristotle said, “Knowing yourself is the beginning of all wisdom.” Knowing oneself leads to understanding one’s journey.

Of course, there are times in which the past is murky at best. However, clarity can come from an autobiography.

An autobiography is an exercise in self-discovery. It allows the author room to explore their journey. As a result, knowledge of oneself emerges as the journey comes into focus.

The written chronicle enables the reader to glimpse into the magical path of self-discovery. Hopefully, this path will also help the reader discover their path.

It is worth noting that an autobiography should not be a bullet-point list of events and facts. Instead, an autobiography should provide a narrative that facilitates exploring the journey of self-discovery. The reader can then take this journey and use it for their benefit.

The most inspirational autobiographies give readers an opportunity to reflect on their journey. Most importantly, superb autobiographies profoundly connect with readers. Wonderful autobiographies are like mirrors in which readers can see their reflections.

4. Writing an autobiography is great therapy!

Psychologists often recommend that their patients write their thoughts and feelings. The aim is for individuals to make sense of their emotions by articulating them.

At first, these thoughts might lack clarity and direction. Nevertheless, they begin to take shape as the writing process continues.

Writing an autobiography is a process that requires the author to explore their emotions at various junctions of their life.

However, the autobiographical process reviews the author’s life with the benefit of hindsight. Hence, the healing process can consequently emerge.

As a renowned writer and journalist Graham Greene put it, “Writing is a form of therapy; sometimes I wonder how all those who do not write, compose, or paint can manage to escape the madness, melancholia, the panic, and fear which is inherent in a human situation.”

Indeed, human nature is rife with a myriad of emotions, both negative and positive. Therefore, writing serves to dissipate such emotions and achieve clarity.

Often, autobiographies emerge from journaling. Personal journals are the ideal source material for great autobiographies. After all, journals allow autobiographers to go back in time to see their state of mind at the time of writing. From there, hindsight can begin to make sense of it all.

5. It helps you establish connections.

Modern technology and on-the-go lifestyles can often lead to isolation. It is quite easy to lose focus due to the multiple distractions that abound. The ensuing disconnect can lead individuals to miss their place within society.

When writing an autobiography, the author must establish a connection within their immediate social circle and society as a whole. After all, the surrounding social environment directly influences the author’s actions and reactions.

The social environment can provide valuable clues to understand the context in which the autobiographical exercise takes place.

Humanitarian and philanthropist Melinda Gates once said, “Deep human connection is… the purpose and the result of a meaningful life – and it will inspire the most amazing acts of love, generosity, and humanity.”

Undoubtedly, having a deep human connection with the world helps individuals express their humanity. Consequently, an autobiography can become a vehicle for such connections.

The writing process enables authors to see where they fit within their social context on a personal level.

More often than not, autobiographers realize they have played a far more important role than they could have ever imagined. As a result, the writing process is nothing more than a record of their noteworthy contributions.

6. It gives you a new sense of purpose.

It is not uncommon to go through life perceiving a lack of purpose.

Whether conscious or not, all people go through life with a purpose driving them.

Naturally, everyone’s purpose differs.

However, that purpose does not generally come into focus without careful and dedicated reflection. Hence, the autobiographical process affords those moments of reflection.

Legendary Russian author Fyodor Dostoyevsky penned, “The mystery of human existence lies not just in staying alive, but in finding something to live for.”

Indeed, everyone lives for a reason. The issue is that not everyone is fully aware of this reason.

Writing an autobiography allows the author to explore their life’s purpose. Furthermore, it allows the reader to assess theirs. In the end, the autobiographical process permits a two-way conversation in which each interlocutor can reflect on their purpose.

Please bear in mind that developing a sense of purpose is an ongoing pursuit. As such, an autobiography is akin to a collection of snapshots. Once put together, each snapshot articulates an overarching purpose.

7. You’ll make new contacts.

It may seem somewhat surprising to think how an autobiography can lead to making new contacts. A published autobiography (self-published, digital, or traditional) promotes exposure. On the surface, making new contacts may not seem like an obvious consequence, but it can certainly happen.

For some professionals, a memoir or autobiography serves to boost their visibility.

As a result, their work helps create more awareness.

Also, writing a book, any book, is an important milestone, especially in academic fields.

Some writers may struggle with putting pen to paper. To remedy this situation, they seek writing groups or communities. In these groups, writers find support from other like-minded individuals.

Consequently, this support allows struggling autobiographers to get through any obstacles standing in their way.

Overall, making new contacts may appear to be an indirect consequence of penning an autobiography. Ultimately, though, it may prove to be the most valuable result of all.

8. It’s an exciting process!

There are times when life seems stuck in a rut. Perhaps long-put-off projects lurk in the back of one’s mind. Or one may even be at a crossroads in life.

Whatever the case, writing an autobiography is an important box to check off one’s bucket list.

In the words of renowned actress Mia Farrow, “My father always told me I should be a writer, and I found I loved writing my autobiography; writing is such an interesting process.”

These words echo a truth regarding the autobiographical process: One does not need to be a writer to produce a quality autobiography. Writing an autobiography should not be a chore. Instead, penning one’s life story should be a labor of love.

It is the culmination of many memorable chapters while looking toward the following ones.

Indeed, writing an autobiography should bring a sense of joy and excitement into one’s life. Undoubtedly, some may find the writing process difficult at first. Nevertheless, that is where the beauty of the process lies.

The writing process is just another memorable journey in a wonderful existence. It is a process worth cherishing. Ultimately, the reader will imbibe the genuine emotions contained on every page.

9. It’ll unleash your creativity.

Producing autobiographical work is an exercise in creative writing. Thus, an autobiography should never be just a collection of facts and dates. If anything, such a work would resemble a résumé instead of an autobiography.

As novelist and essayist Chloe Thurlow put it, “An autobiography is a precious broken vase pieced painstakingly together still showing the chips and cracks.” As such, presenting a laundry list of data does little to reveal the uniqueness of that broken vase. Incorporating creative writing allows the author to fit the pieces together as neatly as possible.

In contrast, presenting a list of facts leaves many gaps in the overall picture.

As a result, the reader will never fully grasp the real person behind the data. Therefore, autobiographers must unleash their creativity.

Of course, it is important to differentiate between creativity and embellishment.

Some authors use outrageous language to create an effect. While that approach is certainly valid, the main objective is to present the truth. From there, readers can build their assumptions about the true character.

In the end, an autobiography should resemble a novel. The narrative grows in the author’s voice. By the last sentence, the entire painstaking process of fitting each piece together will have become evident.

Helpful Tip: Don’t be afraid to hire a ghostwriter.

Writing an autobiography does not necessarily entail producing words. In fact, it is quite common for autobiographers to hire a ghostwriter to help produce a final volume.

In those cases, the author’s voice is still present in the narrative. The difference lies in employing the assistance of a professional writer to facilitate the process. After all, not everyone has the time, skills, or experience to produce a full-length book.

The most important consideration is to portray the subject as realistically as possible. As a result, ghostwriters should not take any creative license. The subject’s voice, personality, and character must be present at all times.

Often, ghostwriters conduct interviews to gain a clear understanding of the subject. Then, multiple revisions ensure the subject’s true character emerges on every page.

Therefore, the subject ought to be present throughout the entire process. Otherwise, the book will shift from an autobiography to a biography.

Additionally, ghostwriters may take a collection of journals or memoirs and articulate them into a single narrative. This approach would constitute an autobiography as the writing help mainly focuses on editing rather than creating.

Should I write an autobiography? This is a question that many people have asked themselves at one time or another.

Writing an autobiography may seem like a daunting task at first. However, there is no reason why anyone should hold back. After all, there are countless individuals out there with extraordinary stories to tell.

There are plenty of reasons why anyone ought to pen their story. It is just a matter of allowing the creative juices to flow freely. And, if necessary, enlisting a professional ghostwriter to aid in the writing process.

The outcome will indeed have a lasting impact on people across generations to come.

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I want to read autobiographies. But first I want to understand why people write them. Providing a legacy for a future generation honestly seems worth it.

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What is a Biography? Definition, Elements, and More

Have you found yourself browsing the biography section of your favorite library or bookstore and wondered what is a biography book ? 

Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered! Plenty of people wonder “What is a biography vs autobiography?” or “What is a biography vs memoir?” And today we are here to set the record straight.

In this brief guide to what a biography is, we’ll explore the definition of a biography, along with its purpose, how you might write one yourself, and more. Let’s get started.

Need A Nonfiction Book Outline?

In this article, we’ll explore:

What is a biography of a person .

What is a biography? A biography is what we call the written account of someone’s life. It is written by someone other than whom the book is about. For example, an author named Walter Isaacson has written biographies on Steve Jobs , Leonardo da Vinci , and Einstein . 

A biography is what focuses on the significant events that occurred in a person’s life, along with their achievements, challenges they’ve overcome, background, relationships, and more. 

They’re an excellent way to get a comprehensive understanding of someone you admire. 

So now you understand what a biography is, but what is the point of a biographical story?

What is the point of a biography? 

Biographies have a few purposes. They can serve as historical records about a notable figure, inspire and educate readers, and give us more insight into how the folks we’re interested in lived their lives. 

And, if you are studying a notable figure, like Einstein, a biography is what you will use as a research resource !

Does a biography cover someone’s entire life? 

Biographies typically encompass most of a person’s life. Obviously, if the subject of the book is still alive, their entire life cannot be written about. 

If the person lived a long and eventful life with many achievements, the author may cover only an especially noteworthy period of the subject’s life. 

Even so, the point of a biography is to learn about your subject beyond just what they achieved, so there will likely still be contextual information about the subject’s childhood, formative experiences, and more. 

Is a biography always nonfiction? 

Surprisingly, a biography is not always nonfiction . There is a genre called biographical fiction in which the author uses real-life people and events to inspire their fictional narrative . 

This genre is fun because the author can postulate about what their subject may have been thinking, feeling, and more in a way they may not be able to with a nonfiction biography. 

Just keep in mind that biographical fiction blends facts with made-up information, so it can’t be used as a primary research source. That said, it’s a fun supplement to learning about a figure you’re interested in, and can help generate curiosity and insights about their lives. 

If you’d like to read a biographical fiction book, check out books like: 

• The Paris Wife by Paula McLain
•   The Other Boleyn Girl by Philippa Gregory
• The Aviator’s Wife by Melanie Benjamin 

Biography vs autobiography

What is a biography vs autobiography? Well, a biography is written about another person . An autobiography is when the writer writes about their own life. So Becoming by Michelle Obama would be an autobiography, not a biography. It’s only a biography if another author decides to write about Michelle Obama.

Biography vs memoir

What is a biography vs memoir? This distinction is a bit harder to define. A memoir is usually written around a theme or a specific time period in someone’s life, and the author is writing about their own memories. Whereas a biography is in chronological order and follows (more or less) the whole lifetime of a person, but it is a person other than the author.

So if someone is telling stories about their travels through South America, that isn’t covering their life story, and it is written about themself, so it would be a memoir instead of a biography.

Now that you know what a biography is, and the importance of biographies, let’s discuss why someone would want to write one.

Why would someone write a biography? 

An author may want to write a biography about someone because they’re inspired by them and want to educate the public about them. Or, they want to create a historical resource for scholars to study. 

An author may even have a commercial motivation for writing a biography, like a lucrative celebrity profile or a biography that has the potential to be adapted into a film or television series. 

Is it possible to write a biography about yourself? 

If you write a book about yourself, it’s called an autobiography or a memoir—not a biography. So, when you start writing your book, make sure you don’t get caught in the autobiography vs biography or biography vs memoir maze.

If you’d like a book written about you that you’re not the author of, you can hire a writer to create one for you. You may choose to do this if you feel your writing skills are not up to par or you don’t have time to write your own biography .

Hiring a writer to write your biography can also make sense if you’d like to make sure the book is as objective and professional as it can be. Of course, this means you have to surrender control of the narrative! 

Some folks may also feel that a biography has more credence than an autobiography or memoir since the book’s subject doesn’t get to decide what is said about them. So hiring a writer for your biography can be a good way to credibly get your story out there. 

Can you write a biography about anyone you’d like? 

When it comes to writing about other people’s lives, it’s wise to proceed with an abundance of caution. After all, you don’t want to be sued for defamation or find yourself in other legal hot water. 

We highly suggest you look into the legal ramifications of writing about your chosen subject before you begin writing about them, but here are a couple of general things to know: 

• Typically, you don’t need permission to write about someone who is a public figure. However, the definition of a public figure can vary depending on your jurisdiction and more, so you’ll need to do your research.
• Even if you discover that you can write about your subject without permission, it’s still advisable to contact the subject and/or their family. Not only is it good manners, but it may afford you some insider information about your subject. 
• If your subject or the family of your subject tells you they don’t want a biography about them, you may still legally be able to proceed—consult a lawyer—but you might face backlash when the book is published, limited access to information about your subject, and perhaps a pressing sense of guilt. Not worth it, if you ask us! 

Examples of biographies

What’s a biography that is really good? Here are a few of the best biographies you should add to your list: 

• Frida: A Biography of Frida Kahlo by Hayden Herrera 
• Heavier Than Heaven: A Biography of Kurt Cobain by Charles R. Cross
• Anne Frank: The Biography by Melissa Müller
• You Never Forget Your First: A Biography of George Washington by Alexis Coe
• The Beatles: The Biography by Bob Spitz
• Victoria the Queen: An Intimate Biography of the Woman Who Ruled an Empire by Julia Baird

We’ve also reviewed the best business biographies of highly successful entrepreneurs. These books offer invaluable lessons and inspiration for aspiring business leaders and authors.

Final thoughts 

Now if anyone asks you “What’s a biography?” You should be able to tell them (and give them some great examples).

Reading a biography is a great way to get inspired, learn from other people’s experiences, and more. And writing a biography can be an excellent educational experience in its own right! If you’d like to publish a biography but don’t know where to start, we’re here to help. Simply schedule a book consultation to get started. 

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4 Inspirational Reasons to Write Your Biography

There’s this idea that biographies only exist for celebrities, heads of state or the founders of Fortune 500 companies. But that’s the furthest thing from the truth.

If you’ve ever wondered whether or not your life story is worth telling, then think about this: in your own unique way, you’ve made a meaningful impact on the world around you and touched the lives of those in your orbit.

No matter how small we perceive our actions, their impact on others—and the future—is often much bigger than we can see or understand. Yes, your story is one worth telling. In fact, writing your biography is a powerful experience with benefits that go beyond preserving memories for the next generation (although that’s definitely a compelling reason to put some ink to paper!).

But what exactly are those benefits? We talked to several people who chose to write their life story and found four compelling reasons to start writing yours today.

1. It allows you to leave a written legacy for future generations

Chuck often wished he had a recorded history of his family. After some thought, he decided to do something about it and opted to have his biography written. “I wish my mother and father had done it. I wish my grandfather had done it. We have lots of things we talk about doing. And we never do. And this was one of them.”

Putting your memoirs and life story into words leaves a legacy for generations to come. It becomes a sacred family heirloom that can be passed down for years, helping to strengthen the bond between family members through shared stories, meaningful anecdotes and a narrative rich in details that might have otherwise been forgotten.

It’s also a way of preserving a moment in time, giving future family members a glimpse of what life was like during a particular era.

Chuck, who opted to have his biography ghostwritten, had this to say: “Obviously, one can write [a biography] themselves. But it’s a pretty big task. And you need help—well, at least I did. Seeing this little [Story Terrace] ad prompted me to get going on something that I had thought about. Whether it was a book or recording, I wanted to start as young as I could and remember the things from when I was a young boy right through the end of my life. Their writer Eric did a wonderful job of putting it all together. I think they did a really wonderful job. The quality, the cover, the pages—I’m very impressed with what it is.”

Much like Chuck, many of our customers note how much they enjoy the interview process with a professional writer and that the opportunity to reflect on their life path is a beautiful experience .

2. It helps you connect with your family and friends

The Pepper family wanted to commemorate their patriarch’s 80th birthday in a way that would help them feel closer to him while preserving a piece of family history. “Our oldest son Rick, his wife Patty and their son Rich were talking about my husband’s birthday coming up. And they wanted something special. Our grandson Rich said ‘maybe we can have a book written about Chichi and Pa’s life.’ They researched and found Story Terrace.”

Working on a biography as a family unit can reinforce memories and strengthen bonds—especially when multiple generations are involved. It can be a beautiful shared experience and a powerful way to pass down the family’s legacy from grandparent to grandchild. As the Pepper family recounts: “Things [came] up [during the process] that were very important but kind of got lost in the background. Putting, in many cases, smiles on our faces and laughter in the room.”

3. It gives you an opportunity to reconstruct the narrative of your life

One important benefit of biography writing is the ability to put a traditional story structure on the events of your life by giving them a beginning, middle and end. These events may appear random and unconnected, but thinking about it from that perspective isn’t always beneficial. Psychology Today notes that “it helps to think about how the various events—even the bad ones—have been part of a journey toward the person you want to become. Writing it down or telling it to someone else can help you impose that organization on it, help you identify key events, and even help you just rehearse and remember the details in a way that helps you become the author of your own life.”

Writing a biography about yourself give you a moment to reflect on your life, soaking in the nostalgia and reminiscing on the good times you’ve shared with family and friends.

4. It can be therapeutic

Turns out, writing about yourself is a wonderful form of self-care! Various scientific studies have documented the psychological benefits of journaling. Putting pen to paper serves as an effective form of therapy that can reduce stress, boost cognition and increase creativity. In fact, a study conducted by social psychologist James W. Pennebaker at the University of Texas at Austin found that labeling emotions through writing helps make sense of them and produces a positive outcome.

As Psychology Today notes, “emotional, autobiographical storytelling can be a path to truly owning your story.” And by sharing that story, you can use your experience as a way to help others in a similar situation.

“But wait a second, —I’m no Hemingway.   I don’t even know where to start.”

Most people are intimidated by the prospect of writing a report, much less a lengthy biography. Reaching out to a ghostwriting service can help you kick start the process with a qualified writer who will help you manage the entire process for you.

Ready to enjoy the benefits of writing your biography? Contact us for a free consultation , or you can sign up for the Story Terrace newsletter for more information.

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This exercise might be critical to your success

For inspiration, motivation, and amusing historical anecdotes about the lives of famous people, we turn to the biographies of others .

But according to  Aliza Licht , SVP of global communications at Donna Karan International and author of " Leave Your Mark: Land Your Dream Job. Kill It in Your Career. Rock Social Media ," there's an essential biography that never makes the best-of lists — and it could be the most critical for your future success.

There's just one caveat: You have to write it first.

A few years back, Licht needed a bio for something, and the process of writing it actually changed the way she saw herself. Now it's one of the exercises she recommends to everyone — and recent research suggests she might be onto so mething.

In  one study  from Stanford, married couples who wrote about conflicts in their relationship as though they were neutral observers showed " greater improvement in marital happiness " than couples who didn't reflect in writing. 

I n a different study from Ohio State University, people were better able to perceive personal progress when they narrated embarrassing moments from their lives in third person.

In other words, the way we tell ourselves our stories matters — and Licht isn't alone in thinking so.

To be clear here, she's not saying you should be writing a 300-page retrospective of your life and choices — at least for the purposes of this exercise — and she's also not talking about a high-concept version your three-sentence LinkedIn blurb. Imagine you're a journalist writing a profile, Licht advises. It's just that the subject of that profile happens to be you — and you're the only one that needs to read it. (That's why it's a "biography" and not an "autobiography" — as much as possible, you want to be outside yourself.)

"It's such a great lesson in self-reflection, and I think it can really help a person get outside of themselves for a minute." In the book, she describes it as an "out of body experience," key to taking stock of where you've been, what you've done, and where you might be going. 

Here's how it's done:

1. Write in the third person. Not only is it more effective — pretending you're not yourself gives you something much closer to an outside perspective, she says — it's also more comfortable. "It is so awkward to talk about ourselves," Licht acknowledges. Switching from "I" to "she" can be freeing.

2. Be thorough. You contain multitudes (and so should your bio). Things to cover: education, career path, jobs and titles, hobbies and passions, talents and awards, affiliations (charities, societies, groups), personality, physical attributes, and family status. The total effect should be an "aerial view," she tells Business Insider.

3. Read it back to yourself.  Evaluate the person you're reading about like you aren't you. Do you like you? Would you hire you? Is the story you're telling about yourself the same story someone could piece together by Googling you? Is that the story you want told? The goal is to get an honest assessment to help you figure out what you've got — and what you might be missing.

" The best thing that can happen is you don’t like it," Licht says. "Because if you don’t like it, you have the power to change it." That's why she thinks the exercise is especially critical for people who are "consistently getting the door shut on them when they apply to places." If doors keep closing, then something isn't working. The bio can help identify what that something is.

And if it feels a little unnatural? That's fine, she says. "I don't think it's natural to constantly think 'how am I doing? What do people think about me?'" Licht points out. But then, that's the point. "You kind of have to make yourself sit down and do it." The effort is worth it, she says.

Watch: The surprising reason 'Shark Tank' investor Robert Herjavec started his own company

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Technology integration blog for teachers

Top 3 Reasons to Read and Write a Biography

In TechnoBiography , the newest technology project introduced by TechnoKids Inc., students select a notable person and learn how to write a biography. They are guided through the research process, learn how to write a personal history using headings, create a graphic organizer highlighting contributions, and showcase online artifacts related to the person.

But why is reading or writing about a famous or remarkable figure valuable?

1. A Biography Integrates Curriculum and Technology

An indepth investigation into a remarkable person can fit into almost all curriculum areas: language arts, history, social studies, science, art, or computer studies. Here are some ideas:

• Write a Life Story : Practice expository writing. Write an engaging life story that offers insight into a person. Captivate reader’s attention.
• Celebrate a Historical Figure : Develop a deeper understanding of a historical period. Research the contributions of a historical figure. Explain their importance to the past and influence on future events.
• Acknowledge a Hero : Inspire others with the accomplishments of personal hero, role model, mentor, or newsmaker. Detail their successes and challenges. Outline reasons their efforts are admirable.
• Investigate Scientific Contributions : Appreciate amazing research findings and inventions. Outline the path to discovery of a scientist. Explain how their work has improved the lives of others.
• Appreciate the Arts : Learn about an art period or artistic style by studying a famous artist. Examine their artwork. Describe its meaning and how it influenced other artists.
• Develop Word Processing Skills : Introduce advanced word processing skills in a computer studies course. Learn to customize styles, insert a table of contents, draw a graphic organizer, organize data using tables, adjust page layout, and add bookmarks.

2. A Biography Provides Inspiration

Reading about the real life story of a successful or remarkable person often influences, motivates, or provides encouragement. As students learn about the challenges that others have overcome, they can make connections to their own lives. They may recognize the hardships that a historical or contemporary figure has faced and relate them to their own struggles. The insight gained in studying a biography can include an affective, emotional component beyond curriculum objectives.

3. A Biography Teaches Life Lessons

Even though the practical skills learned in school – how to solve complex math problems, how to write an essay, or maybe even how to program a computer – are important skills for career, there are other critical lessons students need. Learning about the life story of a successful person can teach essential life skills, such as:

• persevere to achieve goals
• maintain a fair perspective and recognize other viewpoints
• listen to learn from others
• learn to be independent without relying on the opinion of peers
• take personal responsibility and accountability for your choices and actions
• develop a love of learning
• deal with failure
• be kind, helpful, and considerate of others

Learning from the real experience of others is a great tool to help young people grow into successful, contributing members of society.

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Center for Biographical Research

For more than forty years, Biography: An Interdisciplinary Quarterly has explored the theoretical, generic, historical, cultural, and practical dimensions of life writing. Once a year a formal, guest-edited special issue explores a topic of emerging critical interest, including most recently “After(Life) Narratives of #MeToo,” guest edited by Rebecca Wanzo and Carol A. Stabile. Biography also publishes insightful reviews and an annual bibliography of works about life writing. Our newest feature, the International Year in Review, invites contributors from around the world to produce concise essays on some of the most influential publications in biography, autobiography, memoir, and other forms of life writing, offering personal perspectives on global trends in the field.

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Unsolicited submissions to  Biography are welcome. Texts should be double-spaced and approximately 5,000 to 9,500 words in length, including works cited lists and endnotes. Biography is now using the ninth edition of the Modern Language Association (MLA) Handbook for citations. Authors are welcome to submit their essays to Biography following MLA guidelines, or they can use another style and reference system with which they are more comfortable. Please include a 50-word abstract and a biographical note of one or two sentences. All copyrights are held by the Biographical Research Center unless other arrangements are agreed upon.

Biography  follows a policy of double-anonymous submissions . Authors should email their essays to [email protected] without their names appearing anywhere on or in the document. Until a final decision is reached, the identity of the author will not be revealed to outside readers or our acquisition editors.

If you are unable to anonymize your work without significantly interfering with your argument, please include in a cover note to the managing editor with your submission a message stating that anonymizing your text was not possible. We will not be able to conduct double-anonymous peer review for your text under these circumstances, but the managing editor will maintain a single-anonymous review, where the names of your text’s readers will be protected.

Biography does not consider simultaneous submissions. Submissions sent to  Biography should not be under consideration by any other publisher. Because we ask you to wait until we have made a decision about your piece, we aim to send final decisions to authors within four months from the original submission date. We also ask that authors send us a single submission at a time.

Inquiries are welcome. Send all editorial correspondence to  Biography at [email protected] . Please address questions about book reviews to our Book Review Editor at [email protected].

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16 Inspiring Speaker Bio Examples to Help You Write Your Own

• Nathan Mixon
• August 20, 2024

Table of Contents

A well-crafted speaker bio is key to presenting and introducing yourself to the world. This is where you can give a glimpse into your story while also building your personal brand, attracting clients, and establishing your credibility as a professional speaker. It’s not just about your message but it tells why you and your story are so well-suited to provide the message. This article will guide you on how to write an effective speaker bio and will provide top-notch bios to inspire you in writing your own. Let’s get into it!

The Importance of a Speaker Bio: Why Your Speaker Bio Matters

• First Impressions : First impressions matter because they shape how others perceive you almost instantly – you only get one chance at a first impression. These first interactions are crucial for establishing trust, credibility, and professionalism as a professional speaker. A solid, welcoming first impression can open doors to opportunities and help build your strong personal brand. With a speaker bio, you don’t have to worry about body language and other physical cues – just use your words to impress. Since first impressions are hard to change, making a positive one sets the tone for all future interactions.
• Brand Representation : A speaker bio can be a great way to give a snapshot of your personal and professional identity as a speaker. It gives you an opportunity to communicate your values, expertise, and unique qualities as a professional. Let other people understand exactly what you stand for and what you offer
• Networking Tool : Using your speaker bio as an introduction will make you more memorable in networking situations. If your bio shows your expertise and value, it will likely attract like-minded pros and collaborators, including event-planners. This may open doors to more speaking engagements!

Find Out Exactly How Much You Could Make As a Paid Speaker

Use The Official Speaker Fee Calculator to tell you what you should charge for your first (or next) speaking gig — virtual or in-person! 

Key Elements of a Great Speaker Bio

Name and industry.

I shouldn’t have to write this. Obviously, your bio should give your name, your industry, and any titles you have. This clearly states who you are, what you do, and what you’re all about. The reader needs and wants this context to understand who you really are. Having this at the outset of your bio creates that strong first impression we talked about earlier.

Current Role and Organization

Next, you’re going to want to clearly state your status as a speaker to establish your role and responsibilities. If you are part of an organization, give an overview of the organization, including its mission and core activities. Be clear on how your particular role contributes to the organization’s goals and objectives. If you are not part of an organization, state your professional role as a speaker and show how you can contribute to the goals and objectives of different events and speaking opportunities . Stating this clearly and early helps readers quickly grasp the scope of your work and its impact within your field – which leads to the next important element of a good speaker bio.

Expertise and Experience

The next element of a good speaker bio is a summary of your core areas of expertise that align with your speaking topics. Establishing expertise is an area that we, at The Speaker Lab, emphasize non-stop for speakers. Mention any certifications or qualifications that will enhance your personal credibility as a speaker and an influencer. This is the part of your bio that you also want to highlight your professional experiences that will support your authority and expertise in your subject matter. You want to set yourself apart in your field so readers, whether they be potential audience members or decision-makers (clients), see you as an expert with real value to offer that they can’t find elsewhere. This section should reinforce your suitability and appeal as a professional speaker for your intended audiences.

Career Highlights and Achievements

This element goes hand-in-hand with the one we just covered. Beyond touching on your life and professional experiences, make sure you talk about awards and recognitions you’ve received that establish your credibility as a speaker and thought leader. Mention any major achievements as this helps demonstrate your expertise and the impact of your work in your industry. This is probably the most important place to show your success (brag a little) and indicate the value that you bring to every audience you have. It’s all about showing your proven track record in the industry. This is why you are a sought-after speaker and thought leader in your field.

Personal Touch

Finally, add some personal details about yourself that make you more relatable and approachable to your audience. Humanize your bio to show that you are more than just your (very extensive and impressive) professional achievements. This helps create a connection with your readers and audience, making them more likely to engage with your message while also adding depth and personality to your bio, making it more memorable. This part is where you can show you have a well-rounded, full life just like every one of your readers, making you more relatable to diverse audiences.

Writing Tips for a Speaker Bio

Know your audience.

A good speaker bio is tailored to ensure it resonates with the specific audience you’re addressing and the decision makers you want to lure in. By tailoring your bio to a particular group, you can highlight your most relevant skills and experiences for them. It increases the impact of your bio by aligning it with event attendees’ or event organizers’ interests and expectations, while also demonstrating that you understand and value them and their needs.

Keep It Concise and Relevant

The length of your bio can vary. Sometimes speakers will have a short “About Me” section and then a longer, more thorough bio. If that’s the case, then two or three paragraphs is fine. If you only have one section, try to keep it to one or two paragraphs that delivers your information quickly and clearly. This will ensure that all the essential details are included without overwhelming your readers or losing the reader’s attention. Keep the focus on your most impactful points so as to make your bio memorable. Also, respect reader’s time, especially in settings where space is limited like event programs. On your website you have a bit more freedom to have a bit more content.

Use a Professional Tone

In your speaker bio, try to strike the right balance between expertise and relatability. Keep the bio engaging by establishing credibility while also helping the reader connect with you on a personal, human level. This will enhance your likability in the speaking industry. Don’t use overly formal language – just make sure your message is clear and inviting and reinforces your personal brand as both knowledgeable and personable.

Include a Call to Action

This element is not a must, but some speakers like to use it in order to foster continuing interaction and interest. A clear call to action, such as visiting another page on your site or following you on social media, fosters ongoing engagement and create opportunities to get deeper with clients and audience members. It can also be a way to strengthen your network by making it easier for readers to stay in touch or learn more about your continuing work.

Regular Updates

Another important thing to remember is that as you evolve and your career builds over time, you need to make sure your bio reflects that. Update your bio regularly to highlight recent achievements, career developments, high-profile gigs, etc. Keep the content relevant to your current focus and audience expectations, because those will also change over time. Outdated information will misrepresent your expertise or status in the speaking industry.

Examples of Great Speaker Bios

Now we’re going to show you a slew of other speakers and their bio examples that you can use as inspiration. Real-world examples give practical insight into what makes a bio effective, using the elements we’ve described. They come in different shapes and sizes but each pull different elements together to create a compelling narrative in short form. Hopefully, by looking through these excellent bios by established professional speakers, you can be inspired and have some guidance for your writing process for your own bio.

Lauren Sergy

What Makes Lauren Sergy’s Bio Effective

Lauren’s bio starts with a strong, clear statement about her expertise in speaking and communication for leaders and professionals, particularly in business, which sets the stage for what she offers. She emphasizes her extensive experience as a speaker, coach, and trainer with international audiences which helps to showcase her reach and credibility. She also highlights her academic background (which includes advanced degrees and certifications) to reinforce her professional authority and mentions previous teaching roles she has had at reputable universities, as well as appearances on TV and radio programs. Her status as an authoritative figure is not left out in any way. Her published works are included and she makes sure to highlight notable clients and organizations that she has worked with (including T-Mobile and the government of Alberta), showing her diverse and high-profile clientele and audiences. The whole bio uses an engaging and approachable tone which helps keep Lauren relatable and appealing to potential clients.

Erick Rheam

What Makes Erick Rheam’s Bio Effective

As you can see above, Erick chooses to go with a two-section format. He has a quick overview under his “About Me” section and then a more detailed account under the “Biography” section. The “About Me” section gets to the point right away and give a very brief summary of Erick’s background, current role, and mission. For readers who are interested in knowing more about Erick, there is a more comprehensive look into his diverse experience, from military service to professional speaking in the second section. He includes personal achievements and hobbies, like his running and coaching career, to keep it relatable and also highlights his published work, former roles, and particular successes in the industry to establish credibility.

Chris Failla

What Makes Chris Failla’s Bio Effective

Chris’s bio starts with a clear, personal intro that gets straight to the point and lists his unique attributes as a “listener” and “re-framer,” giving a sense of what his mission is. His bio then details his qualifications as a Gallup-Certified Strengths Coach, his educational background, and coaching experience. He makes sure to mention his specific expertise in CliftonStrengths and other leadership tools to showcase his particular, targeted approach to coaching and training. He also has a little list fun facts about his travels, hobbies, and language skills to humanize him and keep the reader’s attention. Chris also states his “Why,” something we stress at The Speaker Lab – a clear statement of his purpose and what drives him to do what he does and to share the message he has.

Dr. Allen Lycka

What Makes Dr. Allen Lycka’s Bio Effective

Dr. Lycka has experience beyond comprehension and his bio reflects that. It highlights his status as a leading cosmetic dermatologist and his vast contributions to the field, helping to make clear his credibility. He also provides relatability by includes his compelling personal story of overcoming a sever misdiagnosis, adding depth to his profile. The bio mentions the book he co-authored and his role as an international keynote speaker , showing his focus on “turning points” and business growth. This gives readers a sense of what he can offer specifically as a speaker.

What Makes Hal Elrod’s Bio Effective

Hal Elrod has an incredible story of survival. His bio obviously mentions this to give a powerful, inspirational element. On the page where his bio (above) is found, you can actually read a much more comprehensive personal story of Hal’s life and his experiences of surviving a severe car accident and a rare cancer. His bio also mentions his own roles as a keynote speaker, podcast host, and bestselling author – roles that came as a result of his inspiring story. He mentions his successful book, The Miracle Morning , and notes its impressive sales and ratings to showcase his impact and expertise on a wider audience and then talks about his recent projects, including a movie based on that book! He finishes with a small personal touch, mentioning his family and life in Austin, Texas.

Nanette Hitchcock

What Makes Nanette Hitchcock’s Bio Effective

Nanette’s bio focuses on her 25-year career as an Executive Leadership Coach and Speaker, emphasizing her experience and credibility. She mentions her Leadership Mastermind series and other leadership programs she is involved with to show her impact in her field and then clearly lists her mission and values, adding a human touch and aligning her professional mission with her personal values.

Molly Fletcher

What Makes Molly Fletcher’s Bio Effective

Molly’s bio is heavy on her professional accomplishments – not surprising for someone who has earned the nickname, “the female Jerry Maguire.” She had a pioneering role as one of the first female sports agents and has high-profile clients which shows her expertise and credibility. Molly also mentions her status as one of the most booked female speakers and the popularity of her TED talk, which is a familiar platform for most people. Her bio details her successful books and upcoming releases and lists major media appearances and features, as well as her own podcast. This all demonstrates her broad visibility and credibility across various platforms.

Chip Eichelberger

What Makes Chip Eichelberger’s Bio Effective

What really stands out in Chip’s bio as a way of establishing his credibility in the industry is the endorsement from Tony Robbins, a giant in the speaking business. That testimonials really speaks to his credibility, touching on his communication skills, commitment to improvement and his ability to make a significant impact. Chip’s role as Robbins’ international point person also shows his experience across multiple countries and organizations. The bio emphasizes his interactive and customized approach, something that will resonate with event planners who want something tailored to their agenda. His bio page also includes a short “snackable content” video as a bonus to add some extra value and to provide extra engagement for his readers.

Daniel Pink

What Makes Daniel Pink’s Bio Effective

Daniel, like Erick Rheam, has two sections to his bio: a short bio and long bio. His short bio is concise, introducing him and naming his latest and most well-known publications, and where he lives. His longer bio actually lists and describes each of his books. It also provides a detailed account of his work and achievements, giving a full picture of his career, and also including the significant milestones such as bestseller statuses, notable awards, and media appearances. He has a variety of degrees, honors, and fellowships that highlight his expertise and then he wraps up his bio with some personal information about his family and current life to add a human element to his myriad professional accomplishments.

Ravi Rajani

What Makes Ravi Rajani’s Bio Effective

Ravi is a TSL alumnus and has taken a unique form for his website’s bio. He opens with a memorable personal anecdote about his early love for storytelling and performance before getting into his career journey. He shares a candid look at his academic challenges, career shifts, and the discovery of his true passion. His story highlights his role as a storytelling consultant and the impact of storytelling in sales. He weaves in details about his family and his personal interests, making him very relatable. And finally, he concludes with his mission: a commitment to helping others through the power of storytelling.

Alex Demczak

What Makes Alex Demczak’s Bio Effective

Alex’s bio is straightforward. He lists his academic career and his current role. He notes his experience as a keynote speaker, author, and entrepreneur specializing in leadership and impact, which shows his credibility and expertise. The bio mentions his best-selling books, The Sale and Thrive U , which both focus on integrity, success, and inspirational stories, a key part of his personal brand. Alex speaks about his Speaker School and his multiple podcasts, as well as collaborations with diverse organizations from the Cincinnati Reds to the Space Force to Allstate. And of course, he describes his mission to enhance leadership and performance across various industries.

Rick Clemons

What Makes Rick Clemons’s Bio Effective

Rick’s bio is compelling because it’s grounded in his personal journey. He openly shares past struggles and the transformative experiences that shaped his current work which helps build trust and give a sense of authenticity. It also clearly outlines Rick’s mission: to help men struggling with their sexuality to live authentically and unapologetically. This focused message ensures that readers understand his purpose and the value he offers. Rick’s narrative includes specific, vivid details about his past struggles and eventual breakthroughs. By sharing his personal evolution Rick demonstrates how his experiences uniquely qualify him to help others. His language is bold and unfiltered and shows Rick’s straightforward and honest approach, which can be appealing to those looking for genuine guidance. The bio ends with a strong, motivational call to action, inviting readers to join him in living their truth.

Matt Abrahams

What Makes Matt Abrahams’s Bio Effective

Matt’s mention of his role as a Lecturer at Stanford University and recipient of the Alumni Teaching Award establish him as a leading expert in communication and mentioning his work as a professor, author, podcast host, and consultant shows his broad expertise and impact. By highlighting his consulting for the UN and involvement with major events like TED and Nobel Prize presentations, Matt really underscores his credibility and extensive high-profile experience. The inclusion of his books and podcast in his bio illustrates the actionable advice he provides and noting the widespread reach of his podcast and the success of his books emphasizes the effectiveness and popularity of his communication strategies.

Dan Martell

What Makes Dan Martell’s Bio Effective

Dan Martell’s bio includes his personal story of struggles and eventual success and this immediately adds credibility and relatability, showing he’s overcome significant challenges. Highlighting his achievements with multiple successful companies and his role as a coach to over 1,000 business owners establishes his authority in the speaking industry. Dan takes the narrative form in his bio and his journey from failure to success emphasizes his growth and the lessons learned, making his advice valuable. He clearly articulates the problems he helps solve for other entrepreneurs. The invitation to connect directly makes his bio actionable, encouraging potential clients to reach out for personalized support.

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A well-crafted bio highlights your professional achievements and expertise and also tells a compelling personal story. Whether you’re presenting yourself on a personal website, a social media profile, or a company directory, incorporating authenticity, clarity, and relevance into your bio will significantly enhance your connection with readers. By balancing professional accomplishments with the essence of your unique journey and values, you create a memorable impression that can attract audiences and reel in speaking gigs.

• Last Updated: August 16, 2024

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• Music Production
• How To Write a Music Artist Bio: How To Write a Music Biography

A well-crafted music artist bio is an essential tool for any musician looking to establish their brand, connect with fans, and capture the attention of industry professionals. Whether you’re just starting out or are a seasoned artist, your bio is often the first point of contact between you and your audience. It serves as a snapshot of who you are, what you’ve achieved, and what makes your music unique. This guide will provide you with a step-by-step approach to writing an engaging and effective music artist bio that tells your story and highlights your career.

Why Is a Music Artist Bio Important?

Your music artist bio is more than just a list of facts; it’s a narrative that showcases your personality, your journey, and your artistic vision. A strong bio can:

• Attract Fans : By telling your story in a relatable and engaging way, you can draw in listeners who connect with your music on a deeper level;
• Impress Industry Professionals : A well-written bio can capture the attention of labels, promoters , and journalists , leading to new opportunities;
• Boost Your Online Presence : Your bio is often the first thing people see on your website, social media profiles, or streaming platforms , making it a key component of your online brand.

Recommendations on How to Write a Good Bio for a Musician

Writing a music artist bio can be challenging, especially if you’re not used to talking about yourself in a professional context. Here are some recommendations to help you craft a bio that stands out:

• Keep It Concise : Your bio should be informative but not overwhelming. Aim for around 200-300 words for a short bio, and up to 600 words for a more detailed version;
• Be Authentic : Your bio should reflect your true self. Authenticity resonates with readers and helps build a genuine connection with your audience;
• Highlight Achievements : While it’s important to tell your story, don’t forget to include your achievements, such as awards, notable performances, collaborations, and releases;
• Use a Conversational Tone : Write in a way that feels natural and engaging. Avoid overly formal language, as it can come across as distant or impersonal;
• Tailor It to Your Audience : Consider who will be reading your bio. If it’s for a press kit, focus on your professional achievements. If it’s for your website, you can include more personal details.

A Description of the Main Steps

To help you write a compelling music artist bio, here’s a breakdown of the main steps involved:

1. Start with an Interesting Introduction

Your introduction is the first thing readers will see, so it’s important to grab their attention right away. Consider starting with a memorable quote, an interesting fact about your background, or a brief overview of your musical style.

Example: “With a voice that resonates like a warm breeze through the pines, John Doe brings a fresh perspective to the indie folk scene. Hailing from the rugged mountains of Colorado, his music captures the spirit of the wilderness and the raw emotions of life’s journey.”

2. Provide a Brief Description of Your Background

Next, give readers a sense of where you come from and how you got started in music . This section should be brief but informative, providing context for your musical journey.

Example: “John Doe discovered his passion for music at a young age, strumming his first guitar at the age of 10. Inspired by the likes of Bob Dylan and Neil Young, he began writing his own songs, blending poetic lyrics with intricate melodies. After years of performing at local venues, John’s talent was recognized by a prominent producer, leading to the release of his debut EP in 2018.”

3. Describe Your Music and Influences

This is where you can dive into what makes your music unique. Describe your sound, your influences, and what listeners can expect from your music . Be specific and avoid clichés.

Example: “John’s music is a fusion of indie folk and Americana, with a touch of blues that adds depth to his sound. His songwriting is influenced by the storytelling traditions of Folk legends, while his guitar work is reminiscent of the intricate fingerpicking styles of the blues greats. Each song is a journey, inviting listeners to explore themes of love, loss, and the search for meaning.”

4. Highlight Your Career and Achievements

Now it’s time to showcase your accomplishments. Include details about your discography, notable performances, collaborations, awards, and any other highlights of your career. If you’re a newer artist, focus on the milestones you’ve reached so far.

Example: “Since his debut, John has released two full-length albums, both of which received critical acclaim. His sophomore album, ‘Whispers of the Pines,’ was named one of the top indie folk albums of 2020 by Folk Monthly. He has performed at major festivals, including the Rocky Mountain Folk Festival and the Americana Music Festival, and has shared the stage with artists such as Brandi Carlile and The Avett Brothers.”

5. Conclude with a Call to Action

End your bio with a brief statement that encourages readers to explore your music further. This could be an invitation to listen to your latest album, follow you on social media, or attend an upcoming show.

Example: “John Doe’s music is a journey through the heart and soul of America. Discover his latest album, ‘Whispers of the Pines,’ available now on all major s treaming platforms . Follow John on social media to stay updated on his upcoming tour dates and new releases.”

Additional Tips and Advice on How to Write a Bio

• Update Regularly : Your bio should evolve as your career progresses. Make it a habit to update your bio whenever you release new music , win an award, or achieve a significant milestone;
• Get Feedback : Before finalizing your bio, ask for feedback from trusted friends, fellow musicians, or industry professionals. They can offer valuable insights and help you refine your narrative;
• Use Visuals : If possible, pair your bio with high-quality photos or videos that complement your story. Visuals can make your bio more engaging and help readers connect with your music on a deeper level;
• Avoid Overly Technical Language : While it’s important to describe your music , avoid using too much technical jargon. Your bio should be accessible to all readers, not just musicians;
• Be Consistent : Ensure that your bio is consistent across all platforms, including your website, social media, and streaming profiles. This helps maintain a cohesive brand image.

Writing a compelling music artist bio is a critical part of building your brand and connecting with your audience. By following these steps and incorporating the tips provided, you can craft a bio that not only highlights your achievements but also tells the story of who you are as an artist. Remember, your bio is an ever-evolving narrative that should grow with you as your career progresses. Keep it updated, authentic, and reflective of your unique journey in the music industry.

Whether you’re a budding artist just starting out or an established musician looking to refine your bio, this guide provides the tools you need to create a powerful and engaging biography that resonates with fans and industry professionals alike.

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• Get started

22 Expert Real Estate Bios to Inspire Your Marketing Strategy

August 19, 2024

Crafting a compelling real estate agent bio is essential for standing out in a crowded market and establishing a strong connection with potential clients. Your bio serves as a window into your personality, expertise, and passion for helping clients achieve their real estate goals.

However, writing a bio that effectively captures your unique qualities can be daunting. That’s why we’ve compiled a collection of 22 real estate bio examples to inspire and guide you in creating a standout profile. Whether you’re a seasoned agent looking to refresh your bio or a newcomer eager to make a memorable first impression, these examples will spark your creativity and set you on the path to bio brilliance.

Why write a real estate agent bio?

Your agent bio is a crucial piece of your real estate brand . It conveys to your audience who you are, what you do, your experience, and your ties to the community. It also helps your digital presence and the search engine optimization (SEO) of your website.

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How to craft your real estate bio

If you’re starting from scratch, we recommend checking out this guide to creating a compelling bio that finely articulates your comparative advantage. Because we serve more than 45,000 real estate professionals, we see the components of an outstanding, impressive, and memorable bio every day. Here are some quick tips for making yours stand out:

• Collect stats on your performance, your transactions, high points of your career
• List out awards, designations, and education
• Include testimonials from former clients
• Read examples of bios you admire and can emulate
• Use AI to create an outline or input your draft into AI with a prompt to make it more polished, professional, concise, and memorable.
• Keep SEO in mind when writing by including relevant keywords that relate to your geographic location and niche, and linking to other pages on your site
• Edit your bio down to something that falls between 300 and 500 words
• Make sure your copy is free of spelling errors or grammatical mistakes
• Update your bio regularly

If you’re looking for a way to show off your polished bio, we’d love to talk about your website. Our sites are designed to not only be design-forward and user friendly, but to capture all of the leads that you’re drawing in with your experience and knowledge.

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Learn how we can help take your real estate business to the next level. Schedule a time to speak with one of our branding experts today.

Top tips & 22 real estate bio examples of them in action

As you craft your bio, follow these nine tips to ensure it speaks to your audience and convinces prospective clients that you are the ideal agent for their real estate needs.

Provide your local bona fides

Prospective clients want to see that you are connected to the community you serve as an agent. Use your real estate agent bio as a chance to prove how well you know your area. Local knowledge means you are well-versed in the nuances of neighborhoods, schools, amenities, market trends, charitable organizations, and community dynamics, and can provide clients with invaluable insights based on that understanding.

It also reflects your personal commitment to the area, which can build trust with potential clients, and reveal your network of local contacts and resources. Incorporating this can be as simple as naming your favorite restaurant or place to walk with your dog. Showing how much you know and love your locale can help convince clients that you’re the right partner for them in their move.

This is just the introduction of Bari Mill’s bio, but it does a lovely job of anchoring her to Chicago and showing off her love for her community. I especially like that she calls out her neighborhood, which tells her audience that she knows her area at a hyperlocal level.

Jamie Gunthner

Jamie Gunthner offers another example of using her love of her community in the intro of her real estate bio. In it she not only points out being born and raised in the Florida Keys, but ties it back to what draws so many to that part of the world: the beautiful ocean waters.

Mary Ann Teixeira

Mary Ann Teixeira’s real estate bio example tells a compelling story that begins with farmers gathered around the kitchen table. As a third-generation San Matean, she connects the mid-Peninsula’s agricultural past with how she serves it in the present.

Make it personal

Branding is all about letting your audience get to know who you are. Your real estate agent bio is the perfect opportunity to share more than just your education and experience. This is where you can get personal: Share about your family, your passions, your pets — the things that make you tick.

This element of your real estate bio makes you more relatable and approachable. Details such as hobbies, interests, and family life help clients connect on a personal level, fostering trust and building a stronger client-agent relationship. Someone might just pick you to be their real estate agent because they also share your love of animals or pickleball.

This is just a section of Jade Mills’s comprehensive real estate bio, but I love how much time she spends sharing about her children and grandchildren. Not only are they clearly a major part of her life, but we can all identify with the pride she shows in her family.

John Sanderson

John Sanderson’s bio is a relatively brief four sentences, but the last one is all about his family. He then includes this triptych of photos that offer a visual representation of his personal life. It allows his audience to not only read that he has a beloved wife and two children, but see their smiling faces.

Bobbi Jo Barnes

Bobbi Jo Barnes’ careful choice of words positions her as a friend but also a champion. Because real estate deals are often some of the most financially important of people’s lives, consumers want an agent who will be in their corner, someone who will come from a position of strength and confidence. This bio communicates not only Barnes’ dedication to her clients but also her willingness to fiercely advocate on their behalf.

Eliza Rauscher

Eliza Rauscher’s bio is only two sentences — zero frills, zero exhibition. It’s an honest reflection on not only the pride she feels in her profession but also her gratitude for being able to help others. It’s sincere and makes a compelling statement about the kind of agent and person she is.

Bonnie Spindler

Bonnie Spindler, an agent in San Francisco, specializes in historical properties, specifically Victorian homes. Much of her branding relates to that niche, which is subtly summed up in her real estate agent bio example. The rest of the copy does a great job of rounding her out, including mentioning her philanthropic work, sports activities, and Great Dane.

Brag about yourself and your education

While personal information is important for building rapport, prospective clients still want to make sure you know what you’re doing. If you have earned professional degrees, designations, or awards, your real estate bio is the place to list them.

It’s especially helpful to readers if you include some context, so they know why that award signifies that you are an ideal agent for them. Similarly, it’s helpful to include information about your education, especially if you have a degree that is useful in your real estate career, such as law, architecture, or design.

Amy Rogers’ no-nonsense real estate bio example is a testament to her experience and her many records of distinction, offering just enough context to make them meaningful to her audience. This lets her audience know right from the start that Rogers is a serious professional.

Marcelo Steinmander

Marcelo Steinmander includes a long list of his impressive awards and accomplishments. As his audience scrolls down, his professionalism and experience shines through. Even if a reader is just scanning the content, they’re likely to pick up on the high level of expertise.

  Eric Rizzo

Eric Rizzo does a nice job of weaving his story together with his experience and education. While not all related directly to real estate, his law degree certainly benefits him and his clients. He also gets bonus points for including personal information and important local notes (like diving for lobster).

Define your competitive edge

Identifying and articulating what makes you different in your real estate bio is crucial because it sets you apart in a crowded market and highlights what makes you uniquely qualified to meet clients’ needs. By clearly showcasing your specialized skills, unique experiences, and distinctive approach, you can attract the right clients and demonstrate why you are the best choice for their real estate journey.

Denise Buck

Denise Buck’s brief bio outlines not only her real estate experience, but also what sets her apart in a crowded urban market. Her “extensive knowledge” in finance, investing, home systems, new home construction sales, remodeling, and design make her an ideal partner for an investor.

  Lisa Marie Sanders

Lisa Marie Sanders lays her competitive advantage right there in the second paragraph of this real estate bio example. She notes that her “approach differs from other REALTORS in that it is based on building relationships, mutual respect, and personal touches.”

Jasmine Meier

Jasmine Meier’s real estate bio does an excellent job of explaining who she is, where she comes from, and how her unique experiences make her the ideal partner in real estate. Her compassion and empathy shine through and she comes across as the perfect real estate agent for those who need a little extra hand-holding.

Tell your story with a video

Recording your real estate bio in video format is highly effective because it allows potential clients to see and hear you, creating a more personal and engaging connection. Video bios can convey your personality, enthusiasm, and professionalism more dynamically than text alone.

Plus, there is significant SEO value to using video to deliver your real estate bio. Because search engines favor multimedia content, incorporating video can improve your website’s ranking, making it easier for potential clients to find you. Videos can also increase the time visitors spend on your page, reducing bounce rates and signaling to search engines that your content is valuable and engaging.

Abbott Martin Group

The Abbott family uses video to its advantage, introducing visitors to themselves and their community. They deftly demonstrate how they stand out from the competition by showing properties from the water, giving buyers a taste of what it is like to call the area home. Complete with family photos from generations past, it presents a convincing argument that the Abbott Martin Group is highly qualified and deeply proud to represent their Emerald Coast community.

Kat Carroll

As Kat Carroll’s colleagues and friends wax lyrical about her professionalism and talent, this video presents a convincing narrative that she is one of the top agents in Palo Alto. Seeing her in action, working with clients, presents a vision of what it would be like to work with her in a way that text alone could never do.

Shine as a new agent

Creating a stellar real estate bio can be challenging as a brand-new real estate agent. Focus on highlighting your enthusiasm, dedication, and any relevant skills or experiences from previous careers that can benefit your clients. Emphasize your commitment to excellent service, your passion for your industry, and your eagerness to leverage fresh industry knowledge and modern technology.

Bryan Brash

Bryan Brash might be relatively new to real estate, but his bio speaks to his professionalism, dedication, and even musical talents. While not directly related to real estate, his previous high-profile career tells his audience that this is an agent who can handle pressure. The fact that he was specifically recruited by his current team also speaks volumes. New agents should take a page from his book and lean on the reputation of their brokerages and teams to build confidence.

Caroline Rohrlich

Caroline Rohrlich isn’t shy to point out that she is relatively new to the team and to the real estate industry. Her enthusiasm for her new career shines through, assuring prospective clients that she not only has what it takes to represent them well, but she has the support of her team’s leadership to fall back on. Her personal details offer well-rounded insight into who Caroline is and why she would be a great partner in real estate.

Daniel Estopinal

As with our other examples, Daniel Estopinal doesn’t shy away from the fact that he’s a relatively new agent. Here he highlights how his previous career experience and the numerous contacts he made benefit his current clients.

Let your words speak for themselves

If you’re stuck when writing your real estate bio, keep it brief and to the point and use the extra real estate on your page to show off your expertise. Agents who are often quoted or who write for well-known publications should let their works shine.

Danielle Nazinitsky

Danielle has an extensive library of published work and she’s smart to showcase it here. Luxury Presence offers clients a scrolling band along their bio pages that showcases all of an agent’s publications. It’s one of the most powerful ways to build authority and highlight expertise.

Use other people’s words

Including testimonials in your real estate bio provides social proof of your expertise and the positive experiences past clients have had with your services. Testimonials build trust and credibility, showing potential clients that you have a proven track record of success and client satisfaction. This can significantly influence their decision to choose you as their real estate agent.

Adam Brawer

In this real estate bio example, one former client offers a compelling testimonial that gives visitors a greater sense of who Adam Brawer is, and more importantly, what kind of agent he is. Adding a testimonial in your bio offers the social proof that a prospective client is looking for.

Be genuinely yourself

A sincere and honest bio reflects your true personality and values, setting realistic expectations and fostering long-term relationships. Clients are more likely to feel comfortable and confident working with an agent who presents themselves honestly. This is your chance to really convey your brand: who you are, what you offer your community, and how you are different from everyone else.

Bruce Larson

Bruce’s bio is not full of flowery prose or details of every transaction undertaken in the past 40 years. Instead, he writes directly about what real estate means to him, how important it is to serve his clients well, and his devotion to northern Minnesota. It’s powerful in its simplicity and effective in its authenticity.

Customizable lines for your real estate agent bio

If you’re still stumped, grab some of these lines and customize them to suit your business and experience. Convert to third person or keep them in first person depending on what suits your brand best. It’s all about conveying your expertise and dedication to customer service.

• “With a deep understanding of the local market and a passion for helping clients achieve their real estate goals, I am dedicated to providing unparalleled service.”
• “My commitment to integrity, professionalism, and personalized attention ensures that every client receives the highest level of care throughout their real estate journey.”
• “Specializing in {niche, area, or property type}, I leverage my expertise to guide clients through the complexities of {buying, selling, or investing in} real estate.”
• “As a trusted advisor, I prioritize clear communication and transparent guidance, empowering clients to make informed decisions with confidence.”
• “With a proven track record of success and a reputation for exceeding expectations, I am committed to delivering results that exceed my clients’ expectations.”
• “Backed by {#} years of experience in the real estate industry, I have developed a keen eye for market trends and a gift for negotiating the best deals for my clients.”
• “Whether you’re a first-time homebuyer, a seasoned investor, or looking to sell your property, I am dedicated to providing personalized service tailored to your unique needs and objectives.”
• “Beyond real estate, I am deeply involved in the community and strive to make a positive impact through volunteer work and civic engagement.”

Real estate bios + Luxury Presence

You could write the most compelling real estate bio that anyone has ever written, but if it’s not showcased on a beautiful, design-forward website optimized for lead generation, it’s not working as hard as it should. For a website that speaks to your professionalism and expertise as much as your bio does, contact us today.

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