How to start a biography of a person

Biography writing examples
How to write biography about myself
Biography writing format

•

Start Writing a Biography—in 10 Easy Steps

Ask around. Contact other authors, not just biographers. Reach out to libraries, historical societies, or family members of your subject.

Know when to stop researching. You will likely have more than enough. You can always go back later and fill in the gaps.

Use your research selectively. You can always use excess material in blog posts or videos, articles, speaking appearances, or future projects.

You’ll need to devise a thesis—a main takeaway. You might instead, or also, have various themes that run through the book.

8. Start outlining.

You need an outline—early on. You can start this as early in your process as you like.

The traditional bulleted list works well for most—but others will start with a handwritten "mind map” or by writing on and rearranging virtual (or actual) sticky notes.

As you make your outline, refer to your thesis and/or themes. Refer to your timeline. Start to figure out how you might want to divide the chapters.

You will aim to have six to ten chapters, of roughly equal length, plus an introduction a

•

9 Smart Tips on How You Can Write a Memorable Bio

What do your professional bio and the Mona Lisa have in common?

Right now, perhaps nothing. However, did you know that this famous painting is only 2’6” x 1’9”? Your bio, though slight, can be as memorable.

Here are nine smart tips to get you started.

1. Follow the rules

Most publishers, including websites, have guidelines for bio writing. For instance, the Indiana University Press allows you to mention only one type of publication—books. Before you begin, consult each organization’s submission guidelines.

2. Customize it

Don’t even think about pasting the same old bio everywhere. In addition to differing requirements, each publication or site has a distinct purpose and audience. Your bio should reflect knowledge of the platform and highlight the aspects of your background that would most appeal to its readers. Your Twitter bio, for example, may be both more promotional and playful than a bio on your company’s website.

3. Start strong

According to the Huffington Post, you have less than twenty seconds to grab the a

•

How to Write an Online Bio

Which three words would you use to explain your personality to a stranger?

If you could only think of “human with face,” or “professional needs job,” you’ve come to the right place. Learning how to write a bio is not easy; defining yourself in a few words even less so. But never fear—you can do it! Taking a few minutes to think about what you’re about isn’t just a great writing exercise, it’s a clarifying moment of personal development. Here are a few ways you can get started on your professional, website, LinkedIn, or short bio.

Here’s a tip: Want to make sure your writing shines? Grammarly can check your spelling and save you from grammar and punctuation mistakes. It even proofreads your text, so your work is extra polished wherever you write.

How to write a short bio

When most people think of online bios, they probably can readily name a few common short bio examples first. Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, and Pinterest all have space for a short description of who you are and what you do. And you should make the most of the 1-2 lines you’re affo