Autobiography Questions & Prompts for Students

autobiography assignment grade 5

Writing about one’s own life can be inspiring and terrifying at the same time. No matter why you must prepare an autobiography, it allows you to get to know yourself better and become more open.

A student autobiography is one of the most commonly met types of autobiographical writing. You might need to write one when applying to a college or university. In an essay about yourself, you must catch your readers’ attention, leaving an impression of an outstanding learner and person. You’re in the right place if you are stuck preparing a student autobiography. This article will guide you through the writing process, offering autobiography questions for students together with valuable prompts.

  • 70 Autobiography Questions
  • 5 Exciting Prompts

70 Autobiography Questions for Students

The first thing you should remember when writing an autobiography is that all types of clichés can kill your paper. The standard scheme “was born – went to school – went to college” won’t impress anyone. However, the following autobiography quiz, which contains the most common questions, can be an effective start for brainstorming the subject.

  • When and where were you born?
  • Who are your family members?
  • What are the most impressive of your childhood memories?
  • Were there any family traditions that influenced you?
  • Who were your best childhood friends?
  • What was the most exciting experience of your early childhood?
  • Were there any challenging experiences?
  • How did your first day of school go?
  • What school subject did you like most, and why?
  • Can you recall a memorable teacher who influenced you?
  • What was your favorite book as a child?
  • Did you have a hobby as a child?
  • Are there any childhood interests or hobbies that still excite you?
  • Did art or music play a role in your life?
  • What were your dearest childhood dreams?
  • How did your dreams change when you’ve grown older?
  • Do you remember a moment in your childhood when you were very proud of yourself?
  • What were your most memorable trips?
  • What was your most adventurous experience?
  • What’s the most exotic dish you’ve tried?
  • How has travel shaped your personality?
  • Were there any difficult moments in life you had to overcome?
  • How did you find the strength and courage to overcome them?
  • What was the most spectacular failure in your life?
  • What valuable lessons did you learn from your failures?
  • How did your values change over the years?
  • Which of your experiences influenced your personal growth most?
  • Do you have any famous people you admire?
  • Is there anyone among your loved ones who is a role model for you?
  • Do you remember falling in love for the first time?
  • Have you experienced any heartbreaks?
  • How do you define love?
  • Are love and relationships important in your life?
  • Have you faced any relationship challenges?
  • What have you learned from the relationship hardships you had?
  • Have you already chosen a career path?
  • Would you like to develop in one career direction all your life or change professions?
  • What are your professional aspirations and goals?
  • Do you have any work experience and achievements?
  • How would you describe yourself?
  • Do you feel that your identity has changed throughout your life?
  • Is your cultural identity important to you?
  • What does it mean to be true to yourself?
  • Are there any milestones in your life, like awards or personal achievements?
  • How did you celebrate these achievements?
  • Are there any achievements that changed your aspirations and perspective?
  • Do you have any experience of volunteering?
  • Has your experience of giving back to your community changed your life?
  • How do you imagine your life in 10, 20, 30 years?
  • Is there any contribution you would like to make?
  • How would you like your loved ones to remember you?
  • Do you have a life motto?
  • Do you have a favorite movie character?
  • Who is your least favorite movie character, and why?
  • How do you define success?
  • What is happiness for you?
  • Do you have any healthy habits or practices?
  • Have you ever faced any health challenges?
  • Have these challenges influenced your personality?
  • Is the environment important to you?
  • How do you address environmental issues that bother you?
  • Do you have any experiences related to environmental activism?
  • What makes you happy?
  • What was the happiest moment of your life?
  • Is there something you regret about?
  • What did you learn from the moments you regret about?
  • Were there any turning points that led your life in a new direction?
  • How did you feel during these moments?
  • Is it essential for you to live a meaningful life?
  • How would you define the meaning of life?

5 Exciting Student Autobiography Prompts

The questions discussed above focus on the most common ingredients, which can become good building blocks for your autobiography. However, you should add some spice to your life story to prevent your readers from falling asleep.

To do this, here are 5 exclusive prompts to find topics for an autobiography that will breathe life into your memoir, making it uniquely interesting. If you’re still in a lack of ideas after reading them, check the collection of free essays on any topic imaginable.

Here are the prompts:

  • Has the world changed during your life, and how do you feel about these changes? Reflect on the transformations you’ve witnessed, such as the technological advancements , the emergence of the Internet, and social networking platforms. How have these changes impacted your life, your habits, and your worldview? Share your thoughts on the topic.
  • What is your contribution to the future of this planet, and how did you choose it? Consider the various ways to make a positive impact on the environment. You can focus on simple actions that everyone can perform, like reducing the use of plastic bags. Explain what motivated you to make these decisions.
  • What would you tell your dear ones if you knew that you had only one day more to live on earth? What heartfelt messages would you share with your family, friends, neighbors, and all the people in the world? Use this scenario to dig deep into your values and beliefs.
  • What occupation would you choose if you did not have to earn your living? Explore your passions, interests, and dreams. Imagine the ideal career path or artistic pursuit that truly resonates with your inner self.
  • If you could exclaim, “ Stay moment, you are so fair! ”, would you do it? Did this special moment pass away, or do you believe it is yet to come in your future? Explain what makes these moments special and how they have shaped your life or continue to influence your journey.

Thank you for reading this article! If you wish to polish separate sections of your assignment, you are welcome to use the writing tools we’ve developed:

  • Thesis statement maker
  • Summary tool
  • Paragraph & word changer
  • Autobiography Definition, Examples, and Writing Guide
  • 5 Ways to Write an Autobiography
  • How to Write a Memoir
  • The naked truth: how to write a memoir | Books

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Having My Say: A Multigenre Autobiography Project

Having <em>My </em>Say: A Multigenre Autobiography Project

  • Resources & Preparation
  • Instructional Plan
  • Related Resources

Students can be guided to make powerful connections between their life experiences and the world surrounding their individual narratives. In this lesson, Elizabeth and Sarah Delany's autobiography, Having Our Say , serves as a model for student texts. Students read and analyze passages from Having Our Say looking for specific examples of multigenre writing within the text. Students then choose to narrate a life event that has connections to or is informed by a larger event in their lives or in the world around them. They compose a multigenre paper that includes the autobiographical narrative essay as well as an informational nonfiction piece that provides context for and connections to the story from their life.

Featured Resources

Autobiographical Narrative Component Peer Review Guide : This handout includes a chart to guide students in a thoughtful peer review of a classmate's autobiographical essay, but it could be adapted for use with any peer review. Contextual Essay Planning Sheet : This handout provides a chart that guides students in thinking about the kinds of information an audience might need to know to understand their autobiographical essay.

From Theory to Practice

In Blending Genre, Altering Style: Writing Multigenre Papers , Tom Romano describes his ideal ELA classroom as one in which students "are both consumers and producers of all kinds of literature and media" (43).  As students are exposed to or are expected to have gained "mastery" of certain genres, teachers can challenge students by asking them to combine genres into cohesive multigenre pieces.  In her article discussing the use of multigenre writing assignments in her classroom, Nancy Mack states "I know that assignments must be innovative and interesting enough so that they appear unlike the old drudgery of hackneyed assignments. The format must be open and attractive to invite the possibility of doing something engaging rather than merely pursuing the trivial school game. Topics for writing should make use of the unique knowledge and skills that students already have, connecting school work in a respectful way to things that they value in their personal lives. The completed assignment should be personally significant and full of power and integrity for the author so that the writing itself demands to be heard by a real audience." (98) The writing assignments in this lesson do just that, as they challenge students to write in multiple genres with connections to stories from their lives. Further Reading

Common Core Standards

This resource has been aligned to the Common Core State Standards for states in which they have been adopted. If a state does not appear in the drop-down, CCSS alignments are forthcoming.

State Standards

This lesson has been aligned to standards in the following states. If a state does not appear in the drop-down, standard alignments are not currently available for that state.

NCTE/IRA National Standards for the English Language Arts

  • 1. Students read a wide range of print and nonprint texts to build an understanding of texts, of themselves, and of the cultures of the United States and the world; to acquire new information; to respond to the needs and demands of society and the workplace; and for personal fulfillment. Among these texts are fiction and nonfiction, classic and contemporary works.
  • 2. Students read a wide range of literature from many periods in many genres to build an understanding of the many dimensions (e.g., philosophical, ethical, aesthetic) of human experience.
  • 4. Students adjust their use of spoken, written, and visual language (e.g., conventions, style, vocabulary) to communicate effectively with a variety of audiences and for different purposes.
  • 5. Students employ a wide range of strategies as they write and use different writing process elements appropriately to communicate with different audiences for a variety of purposes.
  • 6. Students apply knowledge of language structure, language conventions (e.g., spelling and punctuation), media techniques, figurative language, and genre to create, critique, and discuss print and nonprint texts.
  • 11. Students participate as knowledgeable, reflective, creative, and critical members of a variety of literacy communities.
  • 12. Students use spoken, written, and visual language to accomplish their own purposes (e.g., for learning, enjoyment, persuasion, and the exchange of information).

Materials and Technology

  • Copies of Having Our Say: The Delany Sisters’ First 100 Years by Sarah L. Delany and A. Elizabeth Delany with Amy Hill Hearth (Dell)
  • Overhead or large post-its for recording student responses
  • Pens, paper for drafting in class or time in a computer lab for composition and revision
  • “Teaching Racially Sensitive Literature: A Teacher’s Guide” (optional)
  • Multigenre Autobiography Planning Sheet
  • Contextual Essay Planning Sheet
  • Autobiographical Narrative Component Peer Review Guide
  • Contextual Component Peer Review Guide
  • Multigenre Autobiography Project Rubric
  • Understanding the Two Genres Handout (optional)

Preparation

  • Determine how much of the book you will ask students to read. You may wish to use this text in its entirety as an example of the genre of autobiography. Alternately, a few of the sections can serve as supplementary resources to existing units. For example, the section “I Am Free! ” could supplement a unit on slavery, “Jim Crow Days” could enrich a unit on Civil Rights and segregation, and “Harlem-Town” would integrate into a study of the Harlem Renaissance. A third option is to treat one of the sections as a stand-alone autobiographical piece.
  • Preview the section(s) you plan to teach and read Teaching Racially Sensitive Literature: A Teacher’s Guide .  Having Our Say does contain frank conversations about race, including representations of blatant racism through language and action. Determine the type and level of preparation your students might need.
  • Make copies of all necessary handouts.
  • Think about an event from your life you would be comfortable using in the modeling the drafting process. (See Instruction and Activities Session 3.)
  • Plan for computer lab/internet access for any sessions during which you will use ReadWriteThink interactives or students will be word processing.
  • If you are unfamiliar with the story of the  Delany sisters, the Having Our Say Website includes brief information about the sisters and how their story came to be written, as well as a study guide for the book.
  • Test the Venn Diagram and Timeline interactives on your computers to familiarize yourself with the tools and ensure that you have the Flash plug-in installed. You can download the plug-in from the technical support page.

Student Objectives

Students will

  • identify features that are unique to and common between informational and autobiographical nonfiction.
  • choose an event from their life to narrate in essay form, adopting genre-appropriate voice, style, and methods of development.
  • determine the specific historical, cultural, or familial background information that readers of the above essay would need.
  • craft an informational nonfiction essay around that information, adopting genre-appropriate voice, style, and methods of development.
  • successfully integrate informational and autobiographical nonfiction.

Session One

  • Prepare students for the reading by discussing its unique structural features.  Have them leaf through the book and take note of its structure while you guide them through the different sections (major sections indicated by roman numerals and titles, unlabeled introductory chapters, alternating chapters labeled with the narrating sister’s name, etc. ).
  • Point out that the third author, a writer for The New York Times , is the objective voice in the chapters at the beginning of the sections.
  • Offer students the label of “multigenre text” and ask if they have read or are familiar with any multigenre texts (Avi’s Nothing But the Truth , Walter Dean Myers’ Monster ).  Ask them what genres seem to be represented in this work.  See the ReadWriteThink lesson Reading and Analyzing Multigenre Texts for more information on this specialized reading and writing, including a booklist with more examples.
  • Have students produce a list of ways that informational nonfiction (perhaps students can conceive of it as “newspaper” writing) and autobiographical nonfiction are similar and different.  You may wish to use the Venn Diagram tool to facilitate this discussion.
  • Extend this discussion into a conversation about what makes each of these genres especially effective.  Write students’ observations on an overhead or large sheet of Post-It paper for later use/reference.  You can then use these preparatory materials as a rubric for the final student product or use the Multigenre Autobiograpy Project Rubric included in this lesson.

Session Two

  • Have students read the desired section(s) of the book. 
  • direct presentation of ideas: “A generation after the end of slavery, freedom for black Americans was still elusive” (90)
  • a focus on facts and events:  “1896…the Supreme Court ruling in the Plessy v. Ferguson case” (90)
  • development with third-person examples and explanation:  “The case stemmed from an incident in which a Louisiana citizen named Homer Plessy lost his appeal to the Supreme Court, which sanctioned the establishment of ‘separate but equal’ facilities for blacks and whites” (90 – 91)
  • formal, standard English throughout and objective perspective throughout.

The style here stands in marked contrast to the conversational style of the sisters’ chapters, where the narrative is driven by dialogue, descriptions, stories, and opinions.

  • Use an overhead of the Multigenre Autobiography Planning Sheet to have students summarize the Delanys’ story in the center circle.  Then review the section opener to list context the third author provides and put the contextual information in the outer circle.  Point out that, diverse as the styles of the two sections may be, they work together to show how the sisters’ lives were part of a larger, more dynamic picture than their individual life experiences alone.
  • Preview the multigenre autobiography assignment, noting to students that they will write about an event from their life as well as the larger context surrounding it.  Encourage students to make connections between their autobiography and the information they include in the contextual essay like the ones from Having Our Say .

Session Three

  • Have students brainstorm a significant event or experience from their lives that they would like to share.  Some students will choose to start with a significant world, community, or family event first ( e.g. , the September 11 attack, the closing of a plant or factory in their town, the birth of a sibling) and then determine the personal narrative they will write in relation to that event.  Others will have an experience they want to narrate and will determine the focus of the contextual information later.  Either approach can work, but ensure that students choose a personal experience that will need to be contextualized.
  • Refer to the list of qualities of narrative/autobiographical nonfiction the class produced in Session 1 (or use the Understanding the Two Genres handout ). 
  • Remind students that they will need to work toward these objectives as they produce a rough draft of their personal essay.
  • Distribute the Multigenre Autobiography Planning Sheet .
  • Model for students the functionality of the Multigenre Autobiography Planning Sheet . Using an event from your own life, start jotting down the events, feelings, and reactions you would need to include in an autobiographical essay recounting the event.
  • As the connections become apparent, or after you’ve modeled the inner circle, write down in the outer circle elements of context you would need to include.
  • Answer any student questions about the process and give them time to start planning the autobiographical component in the inner circle.

Session Four

  • At the beginning of this session, ask students to recall specific instances from the book to exemplify the qualities of autobiographical narrative writing (focus on events and reactions; indirect presentation of main ideas; opinions and reactions are central to the piece; etc .) from the Understanding the Two Genres handout or the list of qualities the class developed to help them focus their efforts.
  • Give students time to work on composition of a draft of the personal essay.  Use the Timeline tool to help students plan the structure of their essay. 
  • Ask students to complete a draft of the essay by the next session.  They should be ready for a peer review activity.

Session Five

  • Put students in pairs to read each others’ drafts and provide feedback to their partners’ essays.  Use the Autobiographical Component Peer Review Guide or a similar resource reflecting the qualities on which you wish students to focus.
  • After giving students time to share their comments with each other, tell students that their attention will now be shifting to concerns of audience as they prepare for the second essay in the project. They need to consider the questions  “Who will be reading this piece?” and “What kind(s) of information do those readers need to gain a full understanding of the experience?”
  • Refer back to sections such as “Harlem Town” or “Jim Crow” to give students a model for this way of thinking.  Remind them that the essay at the beginning of each section provides historical, familial, or cultural context for the individual stories that the sisters narrate in the chapters that follow. 
  • Ask for a few volunteers to tell what event they are narrating.  As a class, discuss the kind of context they will need ( e.g. , If a student is writing about moving from a large city to his/her new home in a smaller town, he/she could describe their city/neighborhood as a reporter would; If a student is narrating the divorce of his/her parents, he/she could provide a brief objective chronology of his/her family life up to that point).
  • Direct peer response pairs to focus on the type and amount of contextualizing their essays will require.  Does the reader need background on the author’s family?  On a historical event?  About a cultural term or concept?  These mini-conferences will produce a plan for the second piece in this assignment.
  • Have students record their needs on the outer circle of the Multigenre Autobiography Planning Sheet .
  • For homework, have them further think about/refine their plan for the contextual essay using the Contextual Essay Planning Sheet . There they should make firm decisions about the amount and type of background information they will need to give their readers. 
  • Ask students to begin the process of researching any information to which they do not have immediate access (family history, historical events).  This research need not be formal, but students should gather information they will need.

Session Six

  • Check students’ plans for the contexual essay and review the guidelines for effective informational writing (see the Understanding the Two Genres handout). 
  • Answer any questions students have about the contextual essay and allow time for the composition of the context opener. 
  • Ask students to have the context opener drafted for the next session.  They should be ready for a second peer review activity.

Session Seven

  • Students meet in the same response pairs and use the Contextual Component Peer Review Guide or a similar resource to provide each other feedback on their partners’ work. 
  • Have pairs go back to the autobiographical essays as well as their plans from Session 5 to make sure the contextual essay sufficiently prepares the reader for the autobiographical essay.
  • If time allows, give students time to begin preparations for revision.

Session Eight

  • Allow students time to revise and polish their project based on feedback and self-evaluation.
  • As a class, choose a unifying school, community, national, or world event.  Write a collaborative contextual essay and have students contribute individual autobiographical essays.
  • Families can choose a unifying event and write a contextual essay together.  Individual family members can contribute individual autobiographical essays.
  • Expand the multigenre requirement to include photographs, poetry, a play, or another genre of your choice.
  • Deepen or expand your study of the literary piece or of autobiographical writing by exploring these related ReadWriteThink Lessons: Breaking Barriers, Building Bridges: Critical Discussion of Social Issues , Paying Attention to Technology: Writing Technology Autobiographies , and The Year I Was Born: An Autobiographical Research Project .

Student Assessment / Reflections

  • Use the Multigenre Autobiography Project Rubric to evaluate the revised student work.
  • Students should also be asked to reflect on what they learned by putting their story into a larger context.  Although they may not have the dynamic connections that are present in the Delany sisters’ story, encourage them to see how putting their stories in a new perspective can help them understand themselves more critically.  This reflection could come as a preface or introduction to the completed multigenre piece.
  • Calendar Activities
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Students come together with family and friends to take part in a read-in of books by African American authors and report their results.

Students generate descriptive timelines and can include images in the description.

This interactive tool allows students to create Venn diagrams that contain two or three overlapping circles, enabling them to organize their information logically.

To understand the historical background that influenced Maya Angelou's poems, students research events to produce trading cards using the ReadWriteThink Trading Card Student Interactive. Through the sharing of these trading cards, students understand the historical background as they analyze Angelou's poetry.

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Autobiography Project

autobiography assignment grade 5

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autobiography assignment grade 5

A-Z Autobiography: Free Activity and Instructions

  • By Shelley Gray
  • August 30, 2018

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A-Z Autobiographies are a simple, fun activity for any time throughout the year. To complete the autobiography, students write something about themselves for each letter of the alphabet. The result is a point form autobiography!

autobiography assignment grade 5

To make this activity more challenging, encourage students to use descriptive words and detail in their writing. Show some examples before beginning to illustrate this. For example, which sounds better:

“Camping is my favorite.”

“Camping is an activity that I love to do with my family.”

Also, encourage students experiment with sentence structure. Here are two ways to say, “I like baseball.” Which sounds better? Why?

“Baseball is fun.”

“Baseball is a sport that I love to play.”

Lastly, students can work with manipulating their sentences to fit the letters that are left. For example, suppose that a student wants to say, “I live in Manitoba,” but the “I” is already taken. How about rearranging that sentence to say, “Manitoba is where I live,” to use for the letter M?

Download this activity for free from Teachers Pay Teachers HERE or directly from my website HERE . Enjoy!

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Have you ever thought about telling your life story? 

An autobiography is like a special book about you – your experiences, ups, downs, and everything in between. 

But when it comes to autobiography writing , putting it all into words, it can feel a bit tricky, especially for students like you.

In this blog, we're here to help you understand what an autobiography is all about and make it easier for you to write one with the help of examples. 

We'll dive into practical examples and autobiography templates to help you see how it's done. 

So, let's dive in!

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  • 1. Memoir Vs Autobiography Example 
  • 2. Autobiography Outline Examples
  • 3. How to Write an Autobiography - Examples
  • 4. Autobiography Examples for Students
  • 5. Personal Autobiography Examples
  • 6. Famous Autobiography Examples

Memoir Vs Autobiography Example 

Memoirs and autobiographies both delve into personal experiences, but they have their own styles and purposes. 

Let’s jump into example to see what is the actual difference between memoir and autobiography:

Memoir Vs Autobiography Example PDf

Autobiography Outline Examples

Any academic or professional writing needs to follow a proper format to organize the information. And an outline is the best way to follow the proper format. It helps you organize your information and structure your data into a proper format.

Here are some autobiography outline examples to help you learn the basics of the autobiography format .

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As we have mentioned earlier, there are as many stories as there are people on earth. Each of the stories is different from the others; no two of them could be the same. 

How you present your ideas really matters. That's why using the right strategies and the correct format is essential to make your writing creative.

It is important to know the difference between autobiography and biography . These examples will help you learn how to start an autobiography that leaves a good impression on the reader’s mind.

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Autobiography Examples for Students

An autobiography is your life story. If your teacher tells you to write one, they just want to hear about your life. Even if you think your story isn't super exciting, following the structure can make it work better.

These autobiography examples for students will help you understand how you can properly format the autobiography.

Autobiography Examples for Kids 

School is a time of discovery, and what better way to explore your own journey than through the lens of an autobiography? Here are some great autobiography examples crafted specifically for kids.

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Short Autobiography Example for Students

Here is a sample of a short autobiography for you. Give it a good read and learn how to write an excellent short autobiography.

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High School Autobiography Example

Check out this sample and learn to write an incredible  autobiography for  high school students.

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Spiritual Autobiography Example for College Students

Spiritual autobiographies give a glimpse into the spiritual person's life. Have a look at the following sample spiritual autobiography and give it a good read to learn more.

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Cultural Autobiography Examples 

Here is a sample of a cultural autobiography that contains detailed information on culture. Have a look at the sample to know more about it.

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Funny Autobiography Examples 

Autobiographies are thought to be boring and mundane, but that is not the case. You can make an interesting story, as well as funny. Learn to write a funny autobiography by this example.

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Educational Autobiography Example

Here is a sample educational autobiography that will help you formulate an effective and inspiring autobiography.

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Social Class Autobiography Example

Writing a social class or sociology assignment could be a bit difficult. This sample will help you work on yours easily.

Rambling Autobiography Examples

Rambling autobiographies are like a casual conversation with a friend, where stories unfold in their own unique way. 

Let’s jump into some fascinating examples about this type of autobiography:

Personal Autobiography Examples

Personal autobiography or personal narrative essay provides a complete picture of the author’s life story. The following personal autobiography demonstrates how to write a personal narrative autobiography.

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Famous Autobiography Examples

Autobiographical essays are usually about famous people or historical figures. Just as a renowned autobiography of Benjamin Franklin tells us about his life, his unfinished records, his accomplishments, etc.

Below are some examples of famous autobiographies for your better understanding:

Famous Literacy Autobiography Example

Famous Autobiography - Sample

All in all, we have explored different examples, like understanding what makes memoirs different from autobiographies and exploring rambling ones. These examples are like guides to help you tell your own story and maybe inspire others on your writing journey. 

So, go ahead, give it a try, and have fun telling your unique tale.

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Barbara P

Dr. Barbara is a highly experienced writer and author who holds a Ph.D. degree in public health from an Ivy League school. She has worked in the medical field for many years, conducting extensive research on various health topics. Her writing has been featured in several top-tier publications.

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How to Write an Autobiography

 





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5th grade Autobiography Unit

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Autobiography Writing Guide

Autobiography Examples

Last updated on: Nov 20, 2023

Autobiography Examples – Detailed Outline and Samples

By: Barbara P.

Reviewed By: Melisa C.

Published on: Mar 22, 2023

Autobiography Examples

We all have stories to tell. And, for some of us, the only way we feel like we can get our story out there is by writing it down. Some people may believe that an autobiography is something only famous people write about themselves but that is not true. 

In fact, anyone who has a story worth telling can write an autobiography. 

If you are assigned to write an autobiography in your high school or college and you are confused about where to start, don’t panic. 

You are at the right place.

Explore this detailed guide to understand the concept of writing an autobiography. It will also provide you with some great autobiography examples for a better understanding.

Autobiography Examples

On this Page

What is an Autobiography?

An autobiography is a kind of the self-written story of a person's life. This type of narration has various aims and objectives that depend on the kind of writing that you decide to go with.

Moreover, it has different types. A writer can choose any of them on the basis of what he wants to include in his story.

AUTOBIOGRAPHY OUTLINE (PDF)

AUTOBIOGRAPHY TEMPLATE (PDF)

Struggling to understand the basics of autobiography? Check out this how to write an autobiography to understand the key prerequisite of autobiographies. 

Autobiography Types

Below-mentioned is the four main types of autobiography. These include:

1. Traditional Autobiography –  It is a complete story that covers all life experiences including birth, childhood, and adulthood. You can write it for personal use. However, if you feel that your life can be inspiring for others, you can also write it for the wider public.

2. Memoir –  It focuses on describing a specific event, relationship, time period, or place that has an effect on your personality and life. For example, it may include your hometown or an important relationship.

3. Personal Essay –  It is the idea of sharing your life story with the audience in a way that they feel as if they were a part of it. Similarly, it also describes two aspects including the event and how it affected the beliefs.

4. Confessional –  Some people find comfort in writing about their mistakes and sins. Thus, they write this type of autobiography so that people will learn from their mistakes and avoid them.

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Examples are an essential way to learn something in less time. Therefore, we have stated some examples for you to write your autobiographies. These will also help to learn about a proper autobiography template and structure.

Have a look at these autobiography examples to get a better understanding.

Cultural Autobiography Examples

CULTURAL AUTOBIOGRAPHY (PDF)

Educational Autobiography Examples for Students 

EDUCATIONAL AUTOBIOGRAPHY (PDF)

Autobiography Examples For Class 6

Autobiography Examples For Grade 7

Autobiography Examples For College Students

Autobiography Examples About Yourself

Autobiography Examples Ks2

Famous Personality Autobiography

The autobiography of benjamin franklin is one example of a famous personality autobiography. Similarly, these famous autobiography examples will provide you with everything to get started with your famous personality autobiography.

FAMOUS PERSONALITY AUTOBIOGRAPHY (PDF)

Funny Autobiography

FUNNY AUTOBIOGRAPHY (PDF)

High School Autobiography

HIGH SCHOOL AUTOBIOGRAPHY (PDF)

Literary Autobiography Example

Literary Autobiography

Personal Autobiography

PERSONAL AUTOBIOGRAPHY (PDF)

Professional Autobiography

PROFESSIONAL AUTOBIOGRAPHY (PDF)

Struggling to understand the difference between memoir and autobiography? Check this guide with memoir vs autobiography examples to differentiate between the two terms.

Scientific Autobiography

SCIENTIFIC AUTOBIOGRAPHY (PDF)

Short Autobiography Examples for Students

SHORT AUTOBIOGRAPHY (PDF)

Autobiography Examples Books

Autobiography example books provide a detailed insight into the life of an individual. Through these real-life stories, readers get to know more about a person's experiences and how they overcame challenges. 

Book Autobiography Sample

Spiritual Autobiography Examples

Spiritual autobiographies are a great way to reflect on one's spiritual journey and the lessons learned along the way. Here is an example to help you out.

Spiritual Autobiography Sample

The Dos and Don'ts of an Autobiography

A successful autobiography indicates the author’s ability to present a worthwhile story. There are a wide variety of things that you can talk about while writing your personal narratives.

However, the following are some dos and don'ts of writing an autobiography that will help in refining your writing skills.

Some dos of writing an autobiography are:

  • Understanding the Intended Audience

There is a huge difference when you are writing an autobiography for your friends or a group of strangers. Because it requires extensive details about life events and experiences. Thus, make sure to include facts that you consider significant.

  • Developing A Core Concept

It is essential to identify the central theme of your autobiography. Moreover, a well-structured outline is also a proper way of associating one event with another. It will also set the interest of the readers by keeping the story consistent from the beginning to the end.

  • Do Tell the Truth

Do not portray yourself as the hero or villain of the story. Instead, tell the truth and acknowledge your mistakes by exposing your strengths and weaknesses.

  • Revising and Editing

Read aloud what you have written and do some editing. Check if your ideas flow logically and look out for interrupting thoughts.

  • Do Seek Feedback

Ask your friends and family to read your work and provide you with feedback. Understand the difference between fair criticism and forced judgment.

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Don’ts of Writing an Autobiography

Below mentioned are some don'ts of writing an autobiography.

  • Do Not Mention Unnecessary Details

Include relevant details and struggles when narrating your life story. Avoid adding unnecessary details. Instead, share the information that is directly related to your story.

  • Stop Worrying About Others

Your story may contain some details that can have a negative effect on others. Do not worry about them and rearrange all the details.

Moreover, remember that you are not here to please everyone. Thus, avoid writing for a broader audience and make your story too generic and specific for the readers.

  • Discuss Why Your Story Is Inspiring

If your main goal is to inspire people with your story, show them how you felt instead of telling them directly. Allow the audience to come to the conclusion through your writing style.

  • Avoid Copying Someone's Story

It is a big mistake to copy someone's work to make your story compelling. Find the hook and unique points that are marketable. Also, think of all these details before you begin writing.

Autobiographies aim to educate and inform others in some ways. This blog has provided all the essential details to write an autobiography. You can generate even more samples of autobiography through our FREE AI-based paper writer . 

If you are still looking up “ who can write my essay? ”, relying on a professional expert is a good option. Make sure you select a reliable and top-ranked writing service, 5StarEssays.com . We guarantee you high-quality write essay services with zero percent plagiarism.

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Barbara P.

Literature, Marketing

Dr. Barbara is a highly experienced writer and author who holds a Ph.D. degree in public health from an Ivy League school. She has worked in the medical field for many years, conducting extensive research on various health topics. Her writing has been featured in several top-tier publications.

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Keep reading.

  • How to Write an Autobiography - A Complete Guide

Autobiography Examples

  • Know the Different Types of Autobiography Here

Autobiography Examples

  • Autobiography Format for Students - A Detailed Guide

Autobiography Examples

  • Autobiography vs. Memoir: Definitions & Writing Tips

Autobiography Examples

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It’s Never too Early for Your Students to Write Their Autobiography (Lesson Plan)

Autobiography Writing

Unwrapping the Onion of the Autobiography

Key points of the lesson, tips for writing biographies & autobiographies, project materials, lesson procedures, lesson resources, digital learning skills, follow up activities.

Who are your students? 

What do they know about themselves? 

What have they done with themselves before they entered your classroom?

These are just a few of the questions that might come up at the beginning of the school year.

It can be said that the most important thing that a student learns how to do during their 13 years of education is to have the skill set to introduce themselves to the world and be able to clearly articulate their identity.

In this lesson plan, we are going to share a great way for students to create an autobiography that has not just one, but several functions throughout the school year.

On the surface, this lesson asks the students to describe all the things that make them unique in this world.  However, once you have your students thinking about these subject areas this project takes on a life of its own based on projects that might stem from its completion. (See below for more information)

In this project, students will learn:

  • What is a biography & autobiography?
  • How to write a personal narrative
  • How to peer edit a partner's biography
  • How to share your story.

Throughout this lesson, there are several key topics that the student will learn. Each of these types of autobiographies has the potential of opening additional projects during the school year making this the perfect first or second lesson.

  • A Biography is a story (in third person) about someone's life and accomplishments.
  • They are designed to help tell someone's story and are meant to help provide a clear picture of who someone is personally and professionally.
  • A tool that can be leveraged when networking.
  • Social Media Profiles
  • Presentations / Speeches
  • “About Me” Pages
  • “Johnny Appleseed is an 8th grade student in Middle School.”
  • “Johnny Appleseed is interested in Volleyball and science, and plays the violin.”
  • “In 2018, Johnny won his first bowling competition…”
  • “When not attending Middle School, Johnny is active in Volleyball.”
  • “Johnny Appleseed lives with his mother and 4 siblings”
  • Begin writing your bio with your first and last name.
  • Showcase what you currently are doing with your life or are interested in.
  • Include at least one accomplishment.
  • Briefly tell your readers who you are outside of school.
  • Consider adding a personal story.
  • Google Doc: Introduction Assignment
  • Google Doc: Biography Outline
  • Google Doc: Write your Autobiography Assignment

Part 1: Write Down Your Thoughts

  • Create an assignment using the “ What Do You Remember? ” Google Doc
  • Ask your students to write down as many memorable events in their life as they can think of that are meaningful.
  • When finished, ask your students to click the TURN IN button in Google Classroom.

Part 2: Biography Outline

  • Create an assignment using the “ Who Are You? (Outline) ” Google Doc
  • Ask your students to fill in the blanks using details from their backgrounds, history, and accomplishments.

Part 3: Writing the Biography

  • Create an assignment using the “ Who Are You? (Template) ” in Google Classroom
  • Ask your students to write the first draft of their autobiography using the paragraph guides in the template.
  • Video 1: How to Write an Autobiography
  • Video 2: How to Write an Autobiography
  • Video 3: How to Write YOUR Autobiography

There are several digital learning skills that students will need or will learn when completing this activity.

  • Peer-Review
  • Capitalization and Punctuation
  • Bold / Italics
  • Header & Paragraph Styles

As mentioned above, there are several follow-up activities that will nicely complement this lesson.  Once a student has written their autobiography, they can then choose someone from history or from a topic that is in the curriculum and write a report to share someone else's story.  Another great extension of this lesson would be to put your students in front of a camera and read the autobiography into a camera to create the beginnings of a short video project.

Are you interested in creating dynamic lessons this year to support digital learning skills?  Would you be interested in having me work with you or your team of teachers?  Please reach out  and let me know how I can best support you this year.

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Autobiography Topics for Class 5 - Examples and AI Tutor

Selecting the right autobiography topics for Class 5  students can ignite their passion for writing and storytelling. Ideal autobiography topics for Class 5  are those that resonate with their daily experiences and spark creativity, such as " My First Pet ," " A Day in the Park ," or " My Favorite Holiday. " By focusing on relatable and entertaining subjects, these autobiography topics for Class 5 not only make writing enjoyable but also help young students hone their narrative skills and express themselves more effectively.

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Autobiography Topics for Class 5 📚✍️

  • How to write an autobiography?
  • Main Points
  • Autobiography of a coin

Let's explore some fun autobiography topics for Class 5 that will help you share your fantastic stories. 🚀

Topic 1. My First Pet 🐶

Do you have a pet that you love? 🐾 Write about the first time you got your pet. Share stories about fun times you’ve had together and what makes your pet special. Whether it's a dog, cat, ......

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Do you have a pet that you love? 🐾 Write about the first time you got your pet. Share stories about fun times you’ve had together and what makes your pet special. Whether it's a dog, cat, hamster, or even a fish, your pet's adventures can make a wonderful story!

Topic 2. A Day in the Park 🌳

Remember that fun day you had in the park? 🛴 Write about all the exciting things you did. Did you play on the swings, have a picnic, or make new friends? Describe the games you played and why that day was so special to you.

Topic 3. My Favorite Holiday 🎄

Holidays are always filled with joy and fun! 🎁 Write about your favorite holiday celebration. Describe how you and your family prepare for it, the delicious food you eat, and the magical moments you share. Whether it’s Christmas, Diwali, or Eid, your favorite holiday will make an amazing story!

Topic 4. My Best Friend and Me 👯‍♂️

Friends make our lives so much brighter! 🌟 Write about your best friend, how you met, and the fun things you do together. Share the adventures you’ve had, the games you play, and the secrets you share. Your friendship is a beautiful story waiting to be told.

Topic 5. A Family Tradition 🏠

Every family has special traditions! 🏡 Write about a family tradition that you love. It could be something simple like a Sunday breakfast or a big celebration. Share why it’s important to you and how it brings your family closer.

Topic 6. My Favorite Teacher 👩‍🏫

Teachers make a big difference in our lives! ✨ Write about your favourite teacher and why you admire them. Describe how they help you learn, the fun activities you do in class, and why they are special to you.

Topic 7. When I Felt Proud 🌟

Think about a time when you achieved something awesome! 🏆 Write about that moment, what you did, and why you felt proud of yourself. It could be winning a competition, learning something new, or helping someone. Share your journey and how it made you happy.

Topic 8. A Fun Day with My Family 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦

Family time is always the best! ❤️ Write about a fun day you had with your family. It could be a trip to the zoo, a movie night, or a simple day at home. Share your favourite moments and why you enjoyed that day so much.

Topic 9. My Favorite Game 🎮

Do you love playing a particular game? 🏓 Write about your favourite game, why you love it, and who you play it with. Describe the rules, the fun you have, and any special memories you’ve made while playing.

Topic 10. My Biggest Dream 🌠

Everyone has dreams and goals for the future! 🚀 Write about your biggest dream and what you hope to achieve one day. Whether it’s becoming an astronaut, a doctor, or an artist, share your dream and why it's so important to you.

So, there you have it! 🌟 These autobiography topics for Class 5 will help you share your incredible stories with joy and creativity. Remember to have fun and let your imagination flow through your writing! Happy writing! 🥳🖋️📖

Video - How to write an autobiography? | Autobiography in Hindi | Class 5 Writing | English

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Main Points - Autobiography | Class 5 Writing | English

  • Start with an introduction: Begin your autobiography by introducing yourself and providing some background information, such as your name, age, and where you live. This will help set the context for the rest of your story.
  • Use simple language: Write in clear and age-appropriate language that is easy for a fifth-grade student to understand. Avoid using complex vocabulary or jargon that may confuse your readers.
  • Focus on key events: Select a few important....

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Video - Autobiography of a coin | Autobiography in Hindi | Class 5 Writing | English

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Example 1 - Autobiography | Class 5 Writing | English

I am an elegant wristwatch created with precision and care by skilled craftsmen. My life began in a bustling watch factory , where I was assembled with utmost attention to detail. Once complete, I was proudly displayed in a jewellery store among my fellow timekeepers, ....

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Example 2 - Autobiography | Class 5 Writing | English

                                                           H oney Bee I am a honey bee , a small yet vital member of the natural world. My life began as a tiny egg, carefully laid by my queen mother in the safe confines of our hive. After hatching and maturing, I embraced my role as a worker bee , diligently serving my colony....

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Example 3 - Autobiography | Class 5 Writing | English

                     Elephant I am a majestic elephant , a gentle giant born and raised in the lush, vibrant forests of Asia. My life began as a small, vulnerable calf, protected and nurtured by my loving elephant family . As I grew, I developed strong bonds with my relatives, learning valuable lessons.....

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Assignment Biography: Student Criteria and Rubric for Writing

Researching an Individual Aligned to Common Core Writing Standards

  • Tips & Strategies
  • An Introduction to Teaching
  • Policies & Discipline
  • Community Involvement
  • School Administration
  • Technology in the Classroom
  • Teaching Adult Learners
  • Issues In Education
  • Teaching Resources
  • Becoming A Teacher
  • Assessments & Tests
  • Elementary Education
  • Secondary Education
  • Special Education
  • Homeschooling
  • M.A., English, Western Connecticut State University
  • B.S., Education, Southern Connecticut State University

The genre of  biography can also be categorized in the sub-genre of  narrative nonfiction/historical nonfiction. When a teacher assigns a biography as a writing assignment, the purpose is to have a student utilize multiple research tools to gather and to synthesize information that may be used as evidence in a written report about an individual. The evidence gained from research can include a person’s words, actions, journals, reactions, related books, interviews with friends, relatives, associates, and enemies. The historical context is equally important. Since there are people who have influenced every academic discipline, assigning a biography can be a cross-disciplinary or inter-disciplinary writing assignment. 

Middle and high school teachers should allow students to have a choice in selecting the subject for a biography. Providing student choice, particularly for students in grades 7-12, increases their engagement and their motivation especially if students select individuals they care about. Students would find it difficult to write about a person they do not like. Such an attitude compromises the process of researching and writing the biography.

According to by Judith L. Irvin, Julie Meltzer and Melinda S. Dukes in their book  Taking Action on Adolescent Literacy:

"As humans, we are motivated to engage when we are interested or have real purpose for doing so. So motivation to engage [students] is the first step on the road to improving literacy habits and skills" (Chapter 1).

Students should find at least three different sources (if possible) to make sure the biography is accurate. A good biography is well-balanced and objective. That means if there is disagreement between sources, the student can use the evidence to state that there is a conflict.  Students should know that a good biography is more than a timeline of events in a person's life.

The context of a person's life is important. Students should include information about the historical time period in which a subject lived and did her/his work. 

In addition, the student should have a purpose for researching another person's life. For example, the purpose for a student to research and write a biography can be in a response to the prompt:

"How does this writing this biography help me to understand the influence of this person on history, and quite possibly, this person's impact on me?"

The following standards-based criteria and scoring rubrics can be used to grade a student-selected biography. Both criteria and rubrics should be given to students before they begin their work. 

Criteria for a Student Biography aligned to Common Core State Standards

A General Outline for Biography Details

  • Birthdate /Birthplace
  • Death (if applicable).
  • Family Members.
  • Miscellaneous (religion, titles, etc).

Education/Influences

  • Schooling.Training.
  • Work Experiences.
  • Contemporaries/Relationships.

Accomplishments/  Significance

  • Evidence of major accomplishments.
  • Evidence of minor accomplishments (if relevant).
  • The analysis that supports why the individual was worthy of note in their field of expertise during his or her life.
  • Analysis why this individual is worthy of note in their field of expertise today.

Quotes/Publications

  • Statements made.
  • Works published.

Biography Organization using the CCSS Anchor Writing Standards 

  • Transitions are effective in assisting the reader to understand shifts.
  • Ideas within each paragraph are fully developed.
  • Each point is supported by evidence.
  • All evidence is relevant.  
  • Important terms are explained to the reader.
  • Purpose of each paragraph (introduction, body paragraphs, conclusion) is clear.  
  • Clear relationship between topic sentence(s) and paragraph(s) that came before is evident.

Grading Rubric: Holistic Standards with Letter Grade Conversions

(based on extended response Smarter Balanced Assessment writing rubric)

Score: 4 or Letter Grade: A

Student response is a thorough elaboration of the support/evidence on the topic (individual) including the effective use of source material. The response clearly and effectively develops ideas, using precise language:

  • Comprehensive evidence (facts and details) from source materials are integrated.
  • Relevant, and specific clear citations or attribution to source materials.
  • Effective use of a variety of elaborative techniques.
  • Vocabulary is clearly appropriate for the audience and purpose. 
  • Effective, appropriate style enhances content.

Score: 3  Letter Grade: B

Student response is an adequate elaboration of the support/evidence in the biography that includes the use of source materials. The student response adequately develops ideas, employing a mix of precise and more general language:  

  • Adequate evidence (facts and details) from the source materials is integrated and relevant, yet the evidence and explanation may be general.
  • Adequate use of citations or attribution to the source material.  
  • Adequate use of some elaborative techniques.
  • Vocabulary is generally appropriate for the audience and purpose.
  • The style is generally appropriate for the audience and purpose.

Score: 2 Letter Grade: C

Student response is uneven with a cursory elaboration of the support/evidence in the biography that includes the uneven or limited use of source material. The student response develops ideas unevenly, using simplistic language:

  • Some evidence (facts and details) from the source materials may be weakly integrated, imprecise, repetitive, vague, and/or copied.
  • Weak use of citations or attribution to source materials.
  • Weak or uneven use of elaborative techniques.
  • Development may consist primarily of source summaries.
  • Vocabulary use is uneven or somewhat ineffective for the audience and purpose.
  • Inconsistent or weak attempt to create the appropriate style.

Score: 1 Letter Grade: D

Student response provides a minimal elaboration of the support/evidence in the biography that includes little or no use of source material. The student response is vague, lacks clarity, or is confusing:

  • Evidence (facts and details) from the source material is minimal, irrelevant, absent, incorrectly used. 
  • Insufficient use of citations or attribution to the source material.
  • Minimal, if any, use of elaborative techniques.
  • Vocabulary is limited or ineffective for the audience and purpose.
  • Little or no evidence of appropriate style.
  • Insufficient or plagiarized (copied without credit) text.
  • Off-topic. 
  • Off-purpose.
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Biography Worksheets for Grades K-5

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Autobiography Examples

40 autobiography examples (autobiographical essay templates).

Writing an autobiography template isn’t an easy undertaking. When written, there will be as many life stories as there are people. What will make an autobiographical essay stand out are the essential topics.

Those which will make it unique among the rest, sorting out the most significant events in one’s life and writing about them are difficult. There is an abundance of experiences to choose from.

Table of Contents

  • 1 Autobiography Examples
  • 2 Formats for autobiography examples
  • 3 Autobiography Samples
  • 4.1 Map out your whole life
  • 4.2 Creating your narrative
  • 5 Autobiographical Essay Templates
  • 6.1 Edit your information first
  • 6.2 Publishing your autobiography

Fortunately, there are plenty of innovative and well-thought-out autobiography samples that are available. They can assist you in organizing your thoughts to come up with a great autobiography. These samples can save you valuable time, especially on how to start an autobiography. Check out our extra 40 biography templates

Free Autobiography Template 01

Formats for autobiography examples

As mentioned earlier, there could be as many life stories out there as there people. Each life story is unique; no two can be the same. It will be up to the writer to make his autobiography stand out.

The presentation of ideas will be an integral factor. Using the right strategies and format to make the writer more creative are necessary. As we all know, an autobiography is an account of a person’s life and it’s written by that person. Find out a suitable autobiography example to take reference from.

The reasons for writing an autobiographical essay differ from person to person. The main point of the writer’s exercise is to convey his life events using words. Autobiography samples will make it easy for the writer to organize thoughts.

To get you started, learn first the following types of written works:

  • Dramas or scripts Usually presented on stage or screen as the venue, this type is in script formats.
  • Graphic novels This new genre of novels is unique in the sense that they use drawn panels to convey a true story. Simply said, it’s a novel in comic-strip format. They tell stories through pictures and words.
  • Memoirs This type limits the information you will present. It’s an account written from personal knowledge or special sources. Its main focus is on specific moments in one’s life. Those which could either are historical, religious, philosophical, adversity, coming-of-age, and more.
  • Personal narratives or essays This type is shorter than a memoir. Its narratives focus on a single event in time. It expands that moment’s experience through conversations and imagery. These types are usually seen in classrooms, magazines or written by internet bloggers.
  • Traditional autobiographies This type usually covers the events of the writer’s life from birth to the present moment.
  • Vignettes This type covers just one particular occurrence at a time. It’s a brief evocative description, account or episode. You can even call it a lone chapter in a compilation of vignettes. You can have it published as a complete piece of work. Bear in mind, though, that each chapter in the collection is not directly related to the others.

Autobiography Samples

Free Autobiography Template 10

How to start an autobiography

Interesting lives make for good autobiographies. When we say interesting, it means the person lived a life full of fascinating experiences. Those he can and should share with others.

A good trick when writing your autobiography example is to think of it just like any other story, a good one at that. There’s always the protagonist, a central plot, and a number of compelling characters. All these will keep the reader’s attention.

Before venturing for an autobiography sample, think of an important event in your life and build your story on that. There is a writing craft or a technique that can make your story come to life. Read on and make your writing sing!

Map out your whole life

It wouldn’t be so hard to map out your timeline; after all, you have lived it. Before anything else, conduct a study on your life. Make a timeline to ensure you will include the important details, both events, and dates.

This will provide you a basis to work on. Don’t inhibit yourself from writing down all you can recall. Don’t underestimate the importance of each event.

  • Autobiographies needn’t always start with your birth Include a brief history of your ancestors if relevant. Introducing your family’s history can make readers relate. They can understand how you evolved into who you are at this moment.
  • Identify your main characters Make them interesting and compelling, either he/she be friend or foe. Be sure they help in moving the story along. Obviously, an autobiography sample will mention your parents. Also, include your spouse, friends, and relatives. But think past your family and friends. Search for those characters that have directly influenced your life. They should play their roles in your life story.
  • Include the best stories Your life is a collection of short stories and anecdotes. Each day, each struggle could be in itself a chapter. But there would be too many of them to contain in a book. Choose the best stories you can remember that have influenced you. Begin your manuscript with these chosen stories. Weave them together to create a picture of your life.
  • Write using your own voice Most people like reading autobiographies to experience what it’s like to be the writer. Being yourself when writing your story is a great way to maintain the reader’s attention. Remember, you are writing about yourself and your life experiences. Stiff and formal writing is for college essays . It won’t and can’t totally engage your readers.
  • Reveal things about your life You can reveal the truth about yourself without having to be too explicit. Write down the good as well as the bad experiences. This will make the reader feel the human side of you. You can write about your accomplishments but you also need to write the flaws that have made you what you are. Readers should empathize with you and may even cheer for you as the story progresses.
  • Show your weaknesses too You may have pitfalls in life but will still remain a protagonist. Write about your mistakes and the times that you have failed in some struggles. Writing too much about your positive side may even turn off some of your readers.

Creating your narrative

One, or perhaps the most important element of an autobiographical essay, is the plot. Not just a plot but a great one that could hold your readers spellbound. When you’ve gathered the material to work with, it’s time to create a fascinating story that would end with a climax as well as final resolutions.

Autobiographical Essay Templates

Free Autobiography Template 20

Craft your story by organizing your memoirs and anecdotes in an autobiography example. Keep in mind that these are coherent to your plot and should flow logically together. There should be a central conflict in your narrative.

It can involve an eventful experience in your life that took you years to conquer.

  • Build the suspense and tension to make it interesting Organize your plot in such as a way that every story would veer towards the conflict’s climax. Make it your goal to include anecdotes on your initial successes and failures. Readers love underdogs. Build on that.
  • Think about your climax Every story will have to end as the protagonist will deal with the conflict. You have read novels and seen movies. You should know what a climax is. You should also know that it’s very important.
  • Also, think about the resolution Autobiographies usually end with happy endings. If for some reason your story’s ending isn’t happy, just make sure that it’s profoundly satisfying. You might have lost the race but the wisdom you gain from the experience will be compensation enough.
  • Determine where to start your story Most autobiographies start with birth and end with the present. But many successful writers have resorted to mixing up their chronology. This makes the narration more interesting. If you’re bold enough, try doing this.
  • Weave in your themes Try to remember major themes in your life. Use them to link stories together by connecting the past with the now. Apart from a central conflict, there are themes that have followed us all through life. Use these themes as often as you can to form a consistent depiction of your story.
  • Reflect on the content of your autobiography template You surely have learned many lessons during the course of your life. It would be nice to relay your desires, intentions, feelings of joy and loss, and more you’ve gained in your life. You can include these lessons intermittently throughout the story. Reflect on these important experiences and what they have meant to you. This is a great way you can add profundity to your life story.
  • Add structure to your book by using chapters The use of chapters will permit you transition from talking about specific times in your life. We’ve all heard the expressions, “closed a chapter” and “opening a new chapter” in life. These are very applicable to autobiography samples and autobiography examples.

Free Autobiography Template 30

Creating and publishing your autobiography

After you’ve written everything, subject your work to several processes. Do this to make sure that its contents are true and accurate. Be sure to comply with all the rules of writing to avoid any problems that may arise later.

First, does a substance check. Second, do forms check? Here are some tips for you:

Edit your information first

  • Your facts should be completely accurate Double check or even triple if you have the time. Check the names, event descriptions, dates, and other things. Everything in your story should be accurate. Wrong facts will certainly get noticed at one time or another by people acquainted with you.
  • Ask permission from those you mention in your book You may name names or quote quotes from sources. In this case, make certain they’ve granted permission. Many don’t appreciate the thought of appearing in an autobiography. Respect that. If the character is central to the plot, describe them differently or change their names.
  • Go through your draft and edit if needed After you’ve finished the initial draft, go through your life story again. Comb through it by double checking your data. Reorganize the paragraphs, passages, and characters if necessary. Check your vocabulary and replace tedious words. Make your phrases more clear and compelling. And lastly, check your grammar and spelling.
  • Let other people read your work An outside or second opinion will be necessary to make sure that your work would appeal to all. You may find passages in your book that are funny or serious but would be mundane or even offensive to others. Present your work to as many close acquaintances and listen to their feedback. This will make sure that your thoughts will come across clearly with other people.
  • Hire a copy editor The job of a copy editor is to clean up your work and make those boring parts shine. Almost all writers seek the services of copy editors. Being a beginner, take a hint by seeking their help as well. Hire a seasoned copy editor to make sure that your book will have that professional polish.
  • Think of your title Think of a title that is intriguing and attention-grabbing. A simple and short title for your autobiography can be “My Autobiography”. If you find it too direct and common, choose something more unique.

Publishing your autobiography

Some people try self-publishing their books. That means they will have their finished work printed but only for themselves. It would also be appropriate to present your work to persons you mentioned in your book.

There are companies that can handle your book design, printing, and even shipping services. But if you want to go public on publishing your autobiography, the sensible thing to do is hire a literary agent.

He will send a query letter to research agents who work frequently with autobiographies. The query will contain information about your autobiography. It will also contain information about the author and how you want to market the book.

You can also send the query letter yourself directly to the publisher and wait. Depending on your query letter, he might get interested. Don’t send them your manuscript all at once. Send it when you get a request for your manuscript.

You can also try publishing your work online. This new alternative method is increasingly getting popular. It doesn’t involve expenses for printing and shipping. Search for online publishers and send them a query letter.

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COMMENTS

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  19. Writing My Autobiography Teaching Resources

    This autobiography template and graphic organizer is a fun resource to use throughout the school year or as an end of the year memory book project. I use this autobiography as a final writing assignment with my fifth grade students. I bind the pages together and laminate the cover and the back page to give to students at the end of the year.

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    Fortunately, there are plenty of innovative and well-thought-out autobiography samples that are available. They can assist you in organizing your thoughts to come up with a great autobiography. These samples can save you valuable time, especially on how to start an autobiography. Check out our extra 40 biography templates.