biography and autobiography similarity

Biography vs Autobiography: Similarities and Differences

Chris Drew (PhD)

Dr. Chris Drew is the founder of the Helpful Professor. He holds a PhD in education and has published over 20 articles in scholarly journals. He is the former editor of the Journal of Learning Development in Higher Education. [Image Descriptor: Photo of Chris]

Learn about our Editorial Process

A biography is an account of someone’s life story that is written by an author who is not the subject of the nook. An autobiography, on the other hand, involves an individual narrating their own life experiences.

The differences between biographies and autobiographies relate most prominently to the authorhship:

• Autobiography: When you read an autobiography, you’re getting the author’s own interpretation of their life.
• Biography: When you read a biography, you experience the subject’s life through someone else’s lens (Schiffrin & Brockmeier, 2012).

Biography vs Autobiography

1. biography.

A biography is a detailed account of a person’s life, scripted by an author who is not the person who is featured in the text itself.

This type of life story focuses both on factual events in the person’s life, such as birth, education, work, and death, but often also delves into personal aspects like experiences, relationships, and significant achievements.

It may also weave-in cultural and contextual factors that help illuminate the person’s motivations and core values .

Origins of Biographies

The concept of biography as a literary genre dates back to antiquity. Such works were primarily used to capture the lives of dignified individuals, mainly rulers and war heroes.

Suetonius’s Lives of the Caesars and Plutarch’s Parallel Lives are landmark examples from this ancient period (Sweet, 2010).

The popularity of biographical works only grew in the ensuing centuries, and they became a prominent part of many cultures’ literary traditions. 

Into the 18th century and during the Enlightenment, biographies began to present a more balanced portrayal of the subject. They would present both their strengths and flaws, providing a holistic perspective on the subject.

Dr. Samuel Johnson’s compilation of English poets biographies, Lives of the Most Eminent English Poets (1779-1781) ushered in a new era of biography writing by focusing on examining human nature (Ditchfield, 2018).

In the modern era, the genre has evolved and broadened, encompassing a diverse range of figures from all walks of life – there’s a biography in every niche imaginable, with each offering readers an in-depth exploration of their lives, their struggles, and their triumphs.

This demonstrates the enduring appeal of biographies and their value in providing snapshots of history through individual lenses.

Key Characteristics of Biographies

Examples of Biographies

Title: The Lives of the Most Eminent English Poets Author: Dr. Samuel Johnson   Description: Dr. Johnson’s work profiles the lives of 52 poets from the 17th and 18th centuries, including John Milton and Alexander Pope. He critiques not just the works, but also explores their personal lives and the sociopolitical contexts of their times (Johnson, 1781). Johnson’s study is invaluable for its integrated historic and biographic approach.

Title: The Life of Samuel Johnson Author: James Boswell   Description: This work by Boswell explores, in great depth, the life of his friend and mentor, Dr. Samuel Johnson. The biography offers a compelling portrayal of Dr. Johnson’s life, character, eccentricities, and intellectual prowess (Boswell, 1791). Boswell’s vivid account creates a near-physical presence of Johnson to the readers, making it one of the greatest biographies in English literature.

Title: The Rise of Theodore Roosevelt Author: Edmund Morris   Description: In this Pulitzer Prize-winning biography, Morris chronicles the early life of Theodore Roosevelt until his ascension to the U.S presidency. The work brilliantly captures Roosevelt’s extraordinary career and his transformation from a frail asthmatic boy into a robust and vigorous leader (Morris, 1979). Morris accurately represents Roosevelt’s indomitable spirit, making it an engaging and educational read.

Title: Steve Jobs Author: Walter Isaacson Description: This comprehensive biography provides a deep-dive into the life and career of Steve Jobs, the co-founder of Apple. Isaacson had unparalleled access to Jobs and those closest to him, thus presenting an intimate and detailed account. He explores Jobs’ professional endeavors as well as his personal life, revealing his ambition, intensity, and visionary mind that revolutionized several high-tech industries (Isaacson, 2011).

Title: Alexander Hamilton Author: Ron Chernow Description: Ron Chernow provides a sweeping narrative of one of America’s most compelling founding fathers, Alexander Hamilton. Chernow combines extensive research with a flair for storytelling, charting Hamilton’s evolution from an orphan into a political genius. The book sheds light on Hamilton’s crucial role in the formation of the United States’ financial system and his political ideologies (Chernow, 2004).

2. Autobiography

An autobiography is a self-written record of someone’s own life. It is a personal narrative in which the author writes about their life from their own perspective.

Autobiographies are usually centered around the author’s personal experiences, including key milestones, challenges, and achievements (Eakin, 2015).

They’re also often a defense of the person’s perspective (especially in political autobiographies) or insight into their thought processes, which can make them very intimate.

Origins of Autobiographies

The term ‘autobiography’ was first used deprecatingly by William Taylor in 1797 in the English periodical The Monthly Review, when he suggested the word as a hybrid but condemned it as ‘pedantic’.

Pioneering examples of the genre form include Thomas De Quincey’s Confessions of an English Opium-Eater (1821) and the memoirs by veterans of the Napoleonic Wars (Lejeune, 2016).

However, apart from these early instances, autobiographies have been composed by a wide array of individuals from history. 

In the early 20th century, the genre witnessed major transformations, and autobiographies started to cover a broader spectrum of experiences, including trauma, struggles, and successes.

‘Black Boy’ by Richard Wright, for instance, shares the author’s experiences with racism and his journey towards developing a literary career (Wright, 1945).

This was followed by a host of autobiographies by public figures sharing their diverse stories, such as Ernest Hemingway’s ‘A Moveable Feast’, depicting his days as a struggling young writer in Paris (Hemingway, 1964). 

Autobiography as a genre has continued to evolve over the years, and a variety of forms have emerged to communicate individual experiences globally.

As history has progressed, we see more and more people with diverse perspectives sharing their stories, broadening our understanding of the human experience (Smith & Watson, 2010).

Key Characteristics of Autobiographies 

Examples of Autobiographies

Title: Long Walk to Freedom Author: Nelson Mandela   Description: “Long Walk to Freedom” provides an in-depth exploration of ex-President Nelson Mandela, his political journey, and his stand against apartheid in South Africa. The biography offers a unique perspective into Mandela’s noble character, his indomitable spirit, and his commitment to justice when faced with grave adversities (Mandela, 1995). Mandela serves as one of our times’ great moral and political leaders through this biography.

Title: The Diary of a Young Girl Author: Anne Frank  Description: This biography provides a startling firsthand account of a young Jewish girl named Anne Frank, who with her family, hid from the Nazis in Amsterdam during World War II. Her diary entries offer profound insights into the fear, hope, and resilience she demonstrated during her two years in hiding (Frank, 1947). Frank’s posthumous biographical record serves as a reminder of the injustices of the past and as a symbol of endurance in the face of oppression.

Title: I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings Author: Maya Angelou  Description: This moving autobiography charts Maya Angelou’s early life, from experiencing racial discrimination in the South to becoming the first black streetcar conductor in San Francisco. Angelou portrays her journey of self-discovery and overcoming traumatic experiences, including racial prejudice and personal trauma, with remarkable strength and grace. Her story is one of resilience, and it speaks powerfully about finding one’s voice (Angelou, 1969). 

Title: Night Author: Elie Wiesel  Description: “Night” is Wiesel’s personal account of his experiences in Nazi concentration camps during World War II with his father. This heartbreaking narrative describes not only physical hardship and cruel atrocities but also examines the loss of innocence and the struggle to maintain faith in humanity. It stands as a testament to human resilience in the face of unimaginable horror (Wiesel, 1960).

Title: Dreams from My Father Author: Barack Obama Description: In this engaging memoir, the 44th President of the United States narrates the story of his diverse background and early life. The narrative extends from his birth in Hawaii to his first visit to Kenya, from dealing with racial identity to self-discovery. “Dreams from My Father” not only provides personal insights about Obama’s life and values but also discusses issues of race, identity, and purpose (Obama, 1995).

Similarities and Differences Between Biographies and Autobiographies

While both biographies and autobiographies are excellent sources of information and entertainment about significant figures in history (or the present!), they serve different purposes. By knowing the different purposes of each, we can develop stronger media literacy , understanding what the intention of the author is, and how we should approach the text.

Angelou, M. (1969). I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings . Random House.

Baker, J., Davis, E., & Thompson, K. (2013). Reflection and Emotions in Autobiography . Chicago University Press.

Boswell, J. (1791). The Life of Samuel Johnson . J.R. Taylor.

Brown, J., & Brown, S. (2018). Thematic Focus in Autobiography Writing . Princeton University Press.

Chernow, R. (2004). Alexander Hamilton . Penguin Books.

Ditchfield, S. (2018). Extracting the Domestic from the Didactic: Transmission and Translation of the Sacred in The Lives of the Ancient Fathers (1672–1675). Church History and Religious Culture, 98 (1), 28-50.

Eakin, P. J. (2015). How Our Lives Become Stories: Making Selves . Cornell University Press.

Frank, A. (1947). The Diary of a Young Girl . Contact Publishing.

Hemingway, E. (1964). A Moveable Feast . Charles Scribner’s Sons.

Isaacson, W. (2011). Steve Jobs . Simon & Schuster.

Johnson, M., & Johnson, S. (2017). A Comprehensive Guide to Biography Writing . New York: Penguin.

Johnson, S. (1781). The Lives of the Most Eminent English Poets . Printed by C. Bathurst, J. Buckland [and 28 others in London].

Jones, B. (2015). The Art of Writing Biographies: An Objective Approach . Oxford University Press.

Lejeune, P. (2016). On Autobiography . University of Minnesota Press.

Mandela, N. (1995). Long Walk to Freedom: The Autobiography of Nelson Mandela . Macdonald Purnell.

Miller, R. (2014). The Self as the Subject: Autobiography Writing . Stanford University Press.

Morris, E. (1979). The Rise of Theodore Roosevelt . Coward, McCann & Geoghegan.

Obama, B. (1995). Dreams from My Father: A Story of Race and Inheritance . Crown Publishing Group.

Schiffrin D., & Brockmeier J. (2012). Narrative Identity and Autobiographical Recall. Royal Institute of Philosophy Supplements, 70 , 113-144.

Smith, J., Davis, M., & Thompson, S. (2012). Third Party Narratives: An Exploration of Biography Writing . Cambridge University Press.

Smith, S., & Watson, J. (2010). Reading Autobiography: A Guide for Interpreting Life Narratives . University of Minnesota Press.

Sweet, R. (2010). Biographical Dictionaries and Historiography. Bibliothèque d’Humanisme et Renaissance, 72 (2), 355–368.

Wiesel, E. (1960). Night . Hill & Wang.

Williams, T. (2019). The Importance of Facts in Biographies . HarperCollins.

Wright, R. (1945). Black Boy: A Record of Childhood and Youth . Harper & Brothers.

• Chris Drew (PhD) https://helpfulprofessor.com/author/chris-drew-phd-2/ 101 Class Group Name Ideas (for School Students)
• Chris Drew (PhD) https://helpfulprofessor.com/author/chris-drew-phd-2/ 19 Top Cognitive Psychology Theories (Explained)
• Chris Drew (PhD) https://helpfulprofessor.com/author/chris-drew-phd-2/ 119 Bloom’s Taxonomy Examples
• Chris Drew (PhD) https://helpfulprofessor.com/author/chris-drew-phd-2/ All 6 Levels of Understanding (on Bloom’s Taxonomy)

Leave a Comment Cancel Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Become a Bestseller

Follow our 5-step publishing path.

Fundamentals of Fiction & Story

Bring your story to life with a proven plan.

Market Your Book

Learn how to sell more copies.

Edit Your Book

Get professional editing support.

Author Advantage Accelerator Nonfiction

Grow your business, authority, and income.

Author Advantage Accelerator Fiction

Become a full-time fiction author.

Author Accelerator Elite

Take the fast-track to publishing success.

Take the Quiz

Let us pair you with the right fit.

Free Copy of Published.

Book title generator, nonfiction outline template, writing software quiz, book royalties calculator.

Learn how to write your book

Learn how to edit your book

Learn how to self-publish your book

Learn how to sell more books

Learn how to grow your business

Learn about self-help books

Learn about nonfiction writing

Learn about fiction writing

How to Get An ISBN Number

A Beginner’s Guide to Self-Publishing

How Much Do Self-Published Authors Make on Amazon?

Book Template: 9 Free Layouts

How to Write a Book in 12 Steps

The 15 Best Book Writing Software Tools

Autobiography vs Biography: Differences and Similarities

So you want to learn more about your favorite influential figure. Should you read an autobiography or a biography about them? 

It depends on what you’re looking for! 

Need A Nonfiction Book Outline?

In this guide, we’ll explain autobiography vs biography and help you choose which one you want to read. We’ll also touch on where memoirs fit in with these genres. Let’s dive in! 

This autobiography vs biography comparison includes:

The similarities between biographies and autobiographies.

Both biographies and autobiographies are written accounts of a person’s life. They typically recount the person’s life experiences, challenges, and accomplishments. 

Usually, each of these genres is written in a narrative style. In other words, it uses storytelling techniques to convey information about its subject. 

Autobiographies and biographies both feature context about the subject’s life by discussing the time in which the subject lived (or is living), the culture and location in which they live(d), and more. 

Like any good story, the best biographies and autobiographies often feature narratives about trials that are overcome and lessons that are learned. They may also focus on the influence and impact of the book’s subject. 

Difference between biography and autobiography

The biggest difference between an autobiography and a biography is that an autobiography is written by the subject of the book about their own life, while a biography is written by another person. 

For example, actress Lucille Ball wrote an autobiography about her life called Love, Lucy . Meanwhile, an author named Kathleen Brady wrote a biography about Lucille Ball called Lucy: The Life of Lucille Ball .

Here are a few other key differences between the two genres: 

1. Different perspectives

Naturally, an autobiography is written from the first-person perspective, which means the author is providing a personalized point of view on their own life. 

Meanwhile, a biography is written from a third-person perspective, meaning the author is writing from an external point of view, with limited insight into the subject’s personal thoughts or feelings. 

2. Control of the narrative

When someone writes their autobiography , they control which parts of their life story they include and which they omit. They can choose which perspective they share and which parts of themselves they want to spotlight. 

Meanwhile, a biography relies on research, interviews and sources to construct a complete picture of a subject’s life. A biographer is likely to be more objective in their presentation of a person—perhaps even including unsavory details about their subject that the subject themselves wouldn’t include. 

3. Levels of objectivity

Even the best autobiography will be subjective because it’s based on the author’s personal memories and feelings. 

On the other hand, many biographers strive to be more objective in their writing. They tend to consult multiple sources, conduct a variety of interviews, and more to make sure they’re writing an accurate portrayal of their subject. 

4. Sources used

Because an autobiographer is writing a story about their own life, their sources will primarily be self-generated. Though they may rely on those close to them, like family members, to verify or recount certain memories they hold. 

That said, many autobiographers still need to do research to add context and depth to their life stories, whether that’s learning about the town they grew up in, their family history, or something else. 

Meanwhile, biographers rely on archival materials, research, interviews, historical documents, and more to help them write the story about their subject. 

5. Writing style

Because autobiographies are more personal, they often reflect the author’s unique writing style and personality. 

On the other hand, biographies generally strive to be more objective, with a focus on a cohesive, well-researched narrative. (But to be clear: they can still be very engaging!)

Where do memoirs fit in? 

We’ve learned about the differences and similarities between autobiographies and biographies, so where do memoirs fit into the puzzle? 

Like an autobiography, a memoir is written by the subject of the book. Both genres tend to focus on the author’s personal life, are written in the first person, and can be highly subjective. 

However, where autobiography vs memoir differs is partially in the scope of the book. An autobiography often encompasses most of the author’s life, while a memoir is likely to focus on one specific event, theme, or period in the author’s life. 

Memoirs also adhere less to chronological storytelling than autobiographies do. They can jump around in time and tend to be centered more on themes, reflection, or specific, impactful moments in the author’s life. 

In summary, you can think of memoirs as even more personal than autobiographies, focusing on a selected part of the writer’s life. They’re also more likely than autobiographies to be written by folks who aren’t famous. 

Final thoughts

While biographies, autobiographies and memoirs all tell a subject’s life story, they do it in different ways. The type of genre you’d like to read (or write) will be contingent on what you’d like to learn about your chosen subject. 

If you’re interested in writing your own memoir, autobiography or memoir, we can help you do it. Simply schedule a book consultation to get started. 

Elite Author T. Lynette Yankson Teaches Perseverance in Her Children’s Book About a True Story

Children's Book, Non-Fiction

Elite Author Peder Tellefsdal Is On a Mission to Rebrand the Church with His New Book

Non-Fiction

How to Write a Biography: 11 Step Guide + Book Template

Join the community.

Join 100,000 other aspiring authors who receive weekly emails from us to help them reach their author dreams. Get the latest product updates, company news, and special offers delivered right to your inbox.

Biography vs autobiography: Similarities, differences, examples

7 March 2024

Magda Wojcik

Biography vs autobiography — two genres that share similarities yet have distinct differences in their approach to portraying the lives of individuals. A biography is a written account of a person’s life, highlighting key events, experiences and achievements. It typically provides a chronological narrative, offering insights into the individual’s character, contributions and the context of their life. In contrast, an autobiography is a written account of a person’s own life written by that individual. Unlike a biography, an autobiography is a first-hand narrative where the subject reflects on their own experiences, memories and perspectives.

• Biography: Key characteristics
• Bestselling biographies examples

Autobiography: Key characteristics

• Bestselling autobiographies examples

Biography vs autobiography: Similarities

Biography vs autobiography: differences.

• Biography vs autobiography: How to prepare them for editing?

Biography : Key characteristics

Overall, biographies aim to provide readers with an informative and engaging portrait of a person’s life, contributing to a better understanding of historical figures, influential personalities or individuals who have significantly impacted society.

The key characteristics of a biography as a genre include:

• Chronological account : Biographies typically present a chronological narrative of the subject’s life, organising events and experiences in the order in which they occurred.
• Factual information : Biographies aim to provide accurate and factual information about the subject, supported by thorough research and verification of details.
• Objective perspective : While biographers strive for objectivity, the interpretation of events can vary. However, the goal is to present a balanced and fair portrayal of the subject.
• Contextualisation : Biographies often place the subject’s life within the broader historical, cultural or social context, helping readers understand the influences that shaped the individual.
• Insight into character : A good biography delves into the subject’s character, motivations and personality, offering readers a deeper understanding of the individual beyond mere facts.
• In-depth research : Biographers conduct extensive research, relying on personal documents, interviews, letters and historical records to compile a comprehensive account.
• Authenticity : Biographies strive to convey the authentic voice and essence of the subject, capturing their uniqueness and the complexity of their life.
• Critical evaluation : Some biographies include critical analysis and interpretation, discussing the impact of the subject’s actions and contributions on their time and subsequent generations.

10 bestselling biographies worth reading

• Alan Turing: The Enigma  by Andrew Hodges explores Turing’s contributions to computer science and his tragic life.
• Elon Musk  by Ashlee Vance offers insights into the entrepreneur’s ambitious ventures.
• Frida  by Hayden Herrera unravels the tumultuous life of the iconic Mexican artist Frida Kahlo.
• Hamilton  by Ron Chernow delves into the life of America’s Founding Father.
• Malcolm X  by Manning Marable offers a new perspective on the influential civil rights leader.
• Steve Jobs  by Walter Isaacson is a comprehensive biography of Apple co-founder, providing insights into his leadership and innovations.
• The Lost City of Z  by David Grann conveys explorer Percy Fawcett’s quest for a mythical ancient city in the Amazon.
• The Queen: A Life in Brief   by Robert Lacey chronicles the reign of Queen Elizabeth II and the changing dynamics of the British monarchy.
• The Revenant  by Michael Punke is the true story of frontiersman Hugh Glass, who survived a grizzly bear attack in the American wilderness during the 1820s.
• Unbroken  by Laura Hillenbrand is based on the incredible true story of Louis Zamperini, an Olympic athlete turned World War II bombardier who survived Japanese prison camps.

Autobiographies provide readers with a first-hand account of an individual’s life, allowing for a unique and personal exploration of the author’s experiences, challenges and triumphs.

The key characteristics of autobiography as a genre include:

• First-person perspective : Autobiographies are written in the first person, with the author recounting their own experiences, thoughts and emotions, offering a direct and personal account of their life.
• Subjective interpretation : Autobiographies reflect the author’s subjective viewpoint, providing insights into their perceptions, feelings and reflections on various life events.
• Intimate and personal : Autobiographies often delve into personal details, emotions and private moments, creating a more intimate connection between the author and the reader.
• Reflective tone : Authors of autobiographies often engage in self-reflection, analysing the significance of their experiences and the lessons learned throughout their life journey.
• Emphasis on personal growth : Autobiographies frequently explore the author’s personal development, highlighting moments of growth, change and self-discovery throughout their life.
• Selective memory : Authors may emphasise specific events, memories or themes in their life, shaping the narrative according to their perspective and priorities.
• Narrative structure : Autobiographies may follow a chronological order, but some authors opt for a thematic or episodic structure, organising the narrative around key themes or significant life events.
• Purposeful storytelling : Autobiographers often have a purpose or message they wish to convey: to inspire, educate or share a unique perspective. The storytelling is often purposeful and shaped by the author’s intentions.
• Authentic voice : Autobiographies aim to capture the author’s authentic voice, allowing readers to connect with the narrator on a personal level and gain a deeper understanding of their individuality.
• Integrity and truthfulness : While autobiographies are subjective, readers expect honesty and truthfulness from the author, even if the narrative is shaped by personal interpretation.

10 bestselling autobiographies worth reading 

• Being Henry  by Henry Winkler shares the disheartening truth of  Happy Days ,  Arrested Development  and  Barry  star’s childhood, the difficulties living with dyslexia and the pressures of a role that takes on a life of its own.
• I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings  by Maya Angelou explores the poet’s early life, struggles and triumphs.
• Is This Ok?   by Harriet Gibsone is a funny and honest account of trying to find a connection in the Internet age.
• Kitchen Confidential  by Anthony exposes the wild tales of the culinary industry: from his lowly position as a dishwasher to cooking at some of the finest restaurants in the world, Bourdain tells it all.
• Long Walk to Freedom  by Nelson Mandela is an inspiring journey from anti-apartheid activist to South Africa’s first black president.
• My Life So Far  by Jane Fonda chronicles the actor’s life in Hollywood, activism and personal growth.
• Open  by Andre Agassi reveals his triumphs, struggles and the personal costs of success in professional sports.
• Spare  by Prince Harry exposes the experiences of the royal life in the public eye, including trauma and mental health struggles.
• The Happiest Man on Earth  by Eddie Jaku is a lesson in how happiness can be found in the darkest of times, such as the author’s survival at the hands of the Nazis.
• The Story of My Experiments with Truth by Mahatma Gandhi reflects on his life, principles and role in India’s struggle for independence. 

Biography vs autobiography share several similarities, given that they both belong to the non-fiction genre and provide insights into the lives of individuals. Here are the main similarities:

• Non-fiction nature : Both biographies and autobiographies are forms of non-fiction literature, presenting factual information about real people and events.
• Focus on individual lives : The central theme of both genres is a specific person’s life. They aim to explore and document the subject’s experiences, achievements, challenges and personal growth.
• Narrative structure : Biographies and autobiographies typically follow a narrative structure, organising events coherently and meaningfully. The storytelling can be chronological or structured thematically.
• Character exploration : Both genres delve into the individual’s character, personality and motivations, providing readers with a more comprehensive understanding of the subject.
• Historical and cultural context : Biographies and autobiographies often place the individual’s life within a broader historical, cultural or social context. This context helps readers comprehend the influences that shaped the person and the significance of their contributions.
• Authenticity and truthfulness : Readers expect authenticity and truthfulness in both biographies and autobiographies. While the author’s perspective may influence the interpretation of events, there is an underlying expectation of factual accuracy.
• Reflection on life events : Like  memoirs , both genres may involve reflection on significant life events, personal growth and the impact of various experiences on the individual.
• In-depth research : Authors of biographies and autobiographies often conduct extensive research to gather information from various sources, ensuring a comprehensive and well-informed portrayal of the subject’s life.

Despite these similarities, a key distinction is the writing perspective. A biography is typically written by someone other than the subject, offering an external viewpoint. On the other hand, an autobiography is self-written, providing a first-hand account of the author’s life.

The differences between biography vs autobiography highlight the distinct characteristics and approaches of biography and autobiography as literary genres:

• Biography is written by an external author who researches and compiles information about the subject.
• Autobiography is written by the subject of the narrative, providing a first-hand account.

Perspective

• Biography presents an external, third-person perspective on the subject’s life.
• Autobiography offers a first-person perspective, allowing the author to share personal thoughts and experiences directly.

Objective vs subjective

• Biographies aim for objectivity, presenting a balanced and factual account.
• Autobiographies are inherently subjective, allowing the author’s interpretation and emotions to shape the narrative.

Point of view

• Biographies are written from an outsider’s viewpoint, relying on research and interviews.
• Autobiographies are written from the author’s own viewpoint, providing an intimate and personal narrative.
• Biographies maintain an objective tone, avoiding personal bias or emotional involvement.
• Autobiographies may exhibit a more emotional and personal tone, reflecting the author’s subjective experiences.

Research method

• Biographers conduct external research, relying on various sources beyond the subject’s personal accounts.
• Autobiographers draw on personal experiences, memories and reflections without relying on external research to the same extent.

Comprehensive coverage

• Unlike  memoirs , biographies often cover various aspects of the subject’s life, including personal, professional and public dimensions.
• Autobiographies may focus on specific themes or periods, offering a more selective exploration of the author’s life.

Intended audience

• Biographies cater to a broad audience interested in learning about significant individuals.
• Autobiographies appeal to readers seeking a personal and intimate connection with the author’s life.

Narrative control

• Biographers control the narrative and interpretation of the subject’s life.
• Autobiographers have complete control over how their own life story is presented.

Biography vs autobiography: How can editing services prepare them for publication?

Editing services are crucial in preparing biographies and autobiographies for publication, ensuring the manuscript is well-structured and effectively communicates the author’s story. Here are different types of editing services and how they contribute to the publication process:

Developmental editing

• Focus : Examining the overall structure and content.
• Goal : Identifying areas that need improvement regarding organisation, clarity and coherence.
• Result : Ensuring that the narrative flows logically, character development is robust, and key events are effectively portrayed.

Line editing

• Focus : Polishing the manuscript line by line.
• Goal : Addressing style, tone and language issues to improve overall writing quality.
• Result : Enhancing the author’s writing style, making it more consistent and compelling.

Copyediting

• Focus : Correcting grammar, punctuation and spelling errors.
• Goal : Ensuring the manuscript adheres to language conventions and is free from technical errors.
• Result : Ensuring the professional presentation of the text and minimising distractions caused by grammatical mistakes.

Fact-checking

• Focus : Verifying the accuracy of information presented in the manuscript.
• Goal : Ensuring that names, dates, events and other details are correct and consistent.
• Result : Guarantying the reliability of the information presented and maintaining the integrity of the narrative.

Proofreading

• Focus : Reviewing the final version for typos and minor errors.
• Goal : Providing a last check to catch any remaining mistakes before publication.
• Result : Ensuring a polished and error-free manuscript for the final stages of production.
• Focus : Ensuring the visual presentation of the text.
• Goal : Formatting the manuscript for consistency and preparing it for publication.
• Result : Creating a professional and visually appealing layout, optimising the reading experience.
• Focus : Creating an index for easy reference.
• Goal : Compiling an organised index of names, events and topics mentioned in the biography.
• Result : Enhancing the usability of the biography as a reference tool.

Final thoughts

In conclusion, although biography vs autobiography offer unique perspectives on the lives of individuals, they differ in their approach and style. A biography provides an objective and informative account of a person’s life. On the other hand, an autobiography offers a subjective and personal exploration of the author’s experiences. In sum, biography vs autobiography — each genre has its strengths and limitations.

Moreover, professional editing services, including developmental, line, copyediting and proofreading, play a vital role in preparing these genres for publication. The editing process ensures coherence, readability and accuracy, allowing biographies and autobiographies to connect with readers effectively.

Contact me for a  free sample edit  of your manuscript (and remember to use my  early bird discount ). I am an  experienced editor  working with non-fiction, academic and business texts. I can help prepare your text for publication, from a big-picture analysis through bringing to the fore your authorial voice to ensuring the correctness and consistency of the language.

I'm a freelance editor and indexer with a PhD in literary history. I work with non-fiction, academic and business texts.

Memberships

Incorporated in England and Wales. Company number: 10809565. Registered office: Kemp House 152-160 City Road, London, England, EC1V 2NX

© MWEditing 2023

We have sent you an email with a 6 digit code to:

Didn't receive an email? Check your spam folder and mark the email as not spam!. If you Skip this step, you won't be able to receive order-related updates via email.

Biography Vs Autobiography: Similarities and Differences with Examples

Do you ever get confused between biography and autobiography? If so, you're not alone. These terms are used interchangeably, but each has its own unique approach. In this blog, we'll discuss biography vs autobiography. After reading this guide, you'll be able to make the difference between an autobiography and a biography. 

What is biography?

Here is a simple definition of biography: 'A biography is a detailed account of an individual's life written by someone else. The author is not the subject of the story. It is also referred to as a bio.' A biography can be about someone who is alive or deceased. It highlights essential moments and happenings in the life of the person in question. This genre essentially incorporates a person's extensive data, including given name, origin, birth date,occupation, and connections. Creating an exceptional piece requires perusing diverse materials such as records, manuals, memoirs, pictures, and interviews. Effective biographies come in writing; however, they can also take other forms such as music, movies. If the targeted subject is dead, then the writer has to do an immense amount of research. You may need to interview the people who knew that person or read already written biographies about that person. But if the person is alive, the writer can interview the target person several times to know about their life experiences.  Biography writing seems like a tiresome job. But you can ease this task by reading our latest guide on professional biography writing . 

Purpose of Biography

The primary goal of biography writing is to tell the readers about the subject's life from childhood to adult life and the rest of the years. Additionally, the biography tells a story of how the person learned life lessons and navigated through the challenges. The person's biography should give a clear picture to the reader about the subject's personality, traits, and how they interact with the world. You must cover all the essential features of biography.

Definition of Autobiography

The story about a person's life written by that person himself or herself is called an autobiography. The literal meaning of the word auto is 'self.' It covers all the elements of the biography but is narrated by the writer himself. Anyone can write their life story as an autobiography. Moreover, the author is himself the subject of the biography.

Purpose of Autobiography

The basic purpose of an autobiography is to portray the author's accomplishments and experiences of life. The majority of autobiographies are written from the author's perspective later in the person's life. So, the first person account is used to tell the author's story.  An autobiography usually starts with the early childhood years. Then, covers information about the person's brought up place, their education years, career, challenges they faced and how they tackled them. These are the key features of autobiography. It is created from the person's diaries. Moreover, the story may have flashbacks and flash forwards, but it must follow the chronological order. Describe the person's life occasions in a sequential manner from early life to their current years. 

Important Aspects of a Strong Autobiography

The primary features of autobiography are as follows:

• The facts are always told in the first person.
• More in-depth and personal than a biography.
• Goes into great depth about the character's life.
• It also explains the motivation behind the main character's behavior.

Common Elements of Biography and Autobiography

Here are a few elements that are common in both types of written formats:

• The purpose of both is to portray a person's life.
• Both are nonfiction because they deal with real-life events that occur during the subject's life.
• Both follow the same chronological order, starting from their early life to the various life stages.
• They include personal insights about the subject's life.
• Both genres may use multiple sources like newspapers, interviews, diaries, photographs and other documents to provide context and in depth narrative.
• The key elements, such as growth, character development, and transformation, are discussed in both. 

Recommended Reading : How to write a biography essay with tips, sample & outline

What is the difference between biography and autobiography?

Along with the similarities, there are also some notable differences between them. The basic difference between autobiography and biography is that autobiography tends to be more subjective in nature. That's why they are written by the subject themselves. Let’s explain the difference between autobiography and biography in detail.

Autobiography Vs Biography Examples

Biography example.

• Name: Alexander Hamilton Author name: Ron Chernow Alexander Hamilton is one of the most fascinating founding fathers of America, and Ron Chernow tells his story in great detail. Chernow traces Hamilton's transformation from an orphan into a political genius by fusing in-depth research with a narrative style. The book clarifies Hamilton's political beliefs and his pivotal role in the development of the US financial system (Chernow, 2004).
• Name: The Life of Samuel Jhonson Author name: Boswell Boswell delves deeply into the life of Dr. Samuel Johnson, his mentor and friend. The biography portrays Dr. Johnson's life, character, unique traits, and intellectual prowess in a fascinating way (Boswell, 1791). Boswell's vivid portrayal brings Johnson to life for the readers, making this one of the best biographies in English literature.
• Name: The Lives of the Most Eminent English Poets Author name: Dr. Samuel Jhonson Some of the 17th and 18th century's greatest poets, such as Alexander Pope and John Milton, are discussed in Dr. Johnson's work. In addition to critiquing the works, he delves into the authors' private lives and the geopolitical context of their eras (Johnson, 1781). Johnson's research is very significant because it takes a combined historical and biographical approach.

Autobiography Examples

• Name: The Diary of a Young Girl Author: Anne Frank It is a unique story of a little Jewish girl. Her name is Anne Frank. This book told the story of her and her family's escape from Nazis in Amsterdam during World War II. She spent two years in hiding, and her diary writings provide important insights into the dread, hope, and resiliency she faced (Frank, 1947). Frank's autobiography posthumously acts as both a symbol of perseverance in the face of adversity and a reminder of the injustices of the past.
• Name: I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings Author: Maya Angelou This moving autobiography traces the early years of Maya Angelou, from being the first black streetcar operator in San Francisco to facing racial discrimination in the South. With incredible grace and courage, Angelou depicts her path of self-discovery and overcoming catastrophic events, including personal pain and racial prejudice. Her narrative of tenacity conveys a powerful message about discovering one's voice (Angelou, 1969).
• Name: Night Author: Elie Wiesel The autobiographical story " Night " by Elie Wiesel describes his and his father's experiences in Nazi concentration camps during WWII. This devastating story explores the loss of innocence and the fight to hold onto faith in humanity in addition to detailing physical suffering and cruel acts. It is proof of the human spirit's ability to persevere in the face of unimaginable evil (Wiesel, 1960).

Bottom Line

It's often challenging to distinguish between an autobiography and a biography. Although there are some significant distinctions between the two genres, you should be aware of them if your aim is to write in any of them. While both biographies and autobiographies are valuable sources of information and amusement about historical personalities (or current figures! ), they serve different purposes. We can enhance our media knowledge and gain a better understanding of the author's aim and appropriate approach to the material by being aware of the distinct objectives of each.  We really hope you find this information useful. You can get in touch with experienced writers who are highly qualified and have years of experience in providing biography writing services .  Take your time and make sure you are creating an engaging narrative that makes the reader feel as though they are right there with you when writing your own life story.

Table of Contents

Persuasive essay topics – how to choose one for you, how to write a persuasive essay- expert tips.

How To Write An Autobiography

Autobiography Vs Biography

Last updated on: May 30, 2024

Autobiography vs. Biography - What are the Differences?

By: Cordon J.

12 min read

Reviewed By: Melisa C.

Published on: Mar 22, 2023

Have you ever wondered about the differences between an autobiography and a biography?

You may have heard of these two terms before, but do you know how they are different from each other? Unfortunately, many people think that both could be used interchangeably, and that both are the same.

Well, you're in luck, because in this blog, we'll explore autobiographies and biographies and their unique perspectives on people's lives. This blog will go over the key differences between biographies and autobiographies so you can make a decision easily.

So without further delay let’s get started!

On this Page

What is an Autobiography?

An autobiography is a book written by someone about their life. Autobiographies are written in the first person throughout because the writer is the protagonist and the main character of the story.

The purpose of writing an autobiography is to provide a detailed account of the narrator's accomplishments and life events.

The autobiography style generally begins with early childhood and proceeds chronologically, listing all of a person's experiences throughout their life.

Autobiographies include information about where someone grew up, their career, life choices, accomplishments, and challenges they overcame.

Related Blog: Click here to discover the various types of autobiography .

Elements of an Autobiography

Let's explore these key components of an autobiography:

• First-person narrative: An autobiography is written in the first person, which means that the author tells their story using the pronoun "I."
• Personal tone: As the author is writing about their own experiences and insights, autobiographies often have a more personal and introspective tone.
• Comprehensive coverage: Autobiographies aim to cover the entire life story of the author, from their childhood to the present. This can include pivotal events such as the author's birth, family life, education, relationships, etc.
• Life experiences and motivations: Autobiography informs the audience about the author's life experiences, motivations, and perspectives. This can include the author's beliefs, values, and goals. 
• ‘The Story of My Life’ by Helen Keller
• ‘The Diary of a Young Girl’ by Anne Frank

Here's a short sample autobiography:

Follow the link to uncover the secrets to writing an astonishing autobiography, with this “ how to write an autobiography ” guide.

What is a Biography?

A biography is a history of a person's life written by someone else. Biographies are often written about famous individuals and personalities like sportsmen, motivational speakers, inspirational figures, etc.

Biographies also cover the subject's entire life. Therefore, it is crucial to include important information about the person's place of birth, education, childhood experiences, partnerships, and so on.

Elements of a Biography

Here are some key components of biography:

• Third-person perspective: Biographies are written in the third-person perspective. That means that the author tells the subject's story using pronouns such as "he," "she," or "they." 
• Chronological order: Biographies are typically organized in chronological order. It means that biographies are structured according to the timeline of the subject's life. 
• Formal and impersonal tone: Biographies are often more formal and impersonal in tone than autobiographies. The author may use a more scholarly writing style and avoid revealing personal thoughts and feelings. 
• Comprehensive coverage: Biographies are meant to provide a comprehensive account of the subject's life. It covers all of the important events and milestones in their life, from their childhood to their achievements, and legacy. 
• Accuracy: Biographies are often used as historical or educational resources. Therefore, it is important that the information presented is accurate and well-researched. 
• ‘His Excellency: George Washington’ by Joseph J. Ellis
• ‘Einstein: The Life and Times’ by Ronald William Clark

Here is a short biography sample:

Looking for an exceptional biography to read? Click on the link to read one for inspiration!

Autobiography vs. Biography - Key Differences

There are a few significant distinctions between biographies and autobiographies, despite the fact that they may appear to be similar.

Let’s take a look at some significant and key differences between the two.

Paper Due? Why Suffer? That's our Job

Similarities between an Autobiography and a Biography

Although they are distinct genres, biographies and autobiographies do have some things in common.

• Primary and Main Goal - The main goal of both types of books is to tell the story and life events of a person's life.
• Non-fiction Works - Autobiographies and biographies are nonfiction works that document significant events in a person's life. You can safely say that that is a kind of nonfiction novel that presents the facts.
• Prominent Figures as Subjects - Biography or autobiography is typically used to tell the stories of well-known people who have made remarkable achievements. Based on these similarities, many people wrongly think that they are the same.

Based on these similarities, many people wrongly think that they are the same.

Get a closer look at this autobiography vs biography worksheet we've designed for you!

Autobiography vs Biography Worksheet

Are Autobiography and Memoir the Same?

A biography includes the life of an individual, whereas a memoir is not necessarily an autobiography.

An autobiography, as the name implies, is a book that includes details like the person’s life story in chronological order. A formal, non-fiction style is employed.

A memoir focuses on a specific incident or component of someone's life rather than the complete narrative. Writing a memoir is more casual and emotional in nature.

Autobiography vs. Biography vs. Memoir

Here is a complete comparison chart that displays the key differences between all three kinds of works.

Curious to learn the differences between autobiographies and memoirs in detail? If so, click on this link to get your questions answered!

In an autobiography, the subject is telling a story about their own life. In a biography, someone else tells the story of someone's life. Both are important and interesting, but they both have different perspectives to offer. 

With so many options out there, we hope this blog helps narrow your search for one that best suits your interests!

Still, feeling unsure about how to start your autobiography or biography? MyPerfectPaper.net can help! 

Our professional essay writing service is here to guide you. We have a team of experts who can assist you in writing an essay that meets all academic requirements. 

So, don't wait any longer, visit our website where you can " pay someone to write my paper " at the most budget-friendly rates!

Experience the future of writing with our essay generator . Try it now and see the difference!

Tough Essay Due? Hire Tough Writers!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Which is better: biography or autobiography.

Both of these works are different from each other so no one could say for sure which one is better. Both are written for the same purpose and, therefore, besides the usual differences, both of them serve an important purpose.

What are the 4 types of biography?

Here are the 4 types of biography;

• Historical fiction
• Academic biography
• Fictional academic
• Prophetic biography

All 4 are different from each other and have different purposes also.

What is the difference between an autobiography and an autobiographical narrative?

An autobiography is a complete account of a person’s life, written and told in the person’s own words. However, when only a few events are narrated, it becomes an autobiographical narrative.

Is autobiography a narrative?

An autobiography is a nonfiction narrative. It means that though the stories and events are true it is told in a storytelling format.

How long is an autobiography?

Usually, an autobiography is between 200 to 400 pages long.

Can a book be both biography and autobiography?

No, a book cannot be both biography and an autobiography at the same time. A biography is a written account of someone's life as written by someone else. In contrast, an autobiography is a written account of someone's life written by the person themselves.

Law, Education

Cordon. is a published author and writing specialist. He has worked in the publishing industry for many years, providing writing services and digital content. His own writing career began with a focus on literature and linguistics, which he continues to pursue. Cordon is an engaging and professional individual, always looking to help others achieve their goals.

Was This Blog Helpful?

Keep reading.

• How To Write An Autobiography: Tips, Ideas & Guidelines to Write Your Life Story

• Different Types of Autobiography Writing With Examples

• How to Write an Autobiography Format Easily?

• Autobiography vs. Memoir - How Are They Different?

• Autobiography Examples: Inspiration & Guidelines to Get You Started

People Also Read

• dissertation proposal
• hook examples
• research paper topics
• narrative essay outline
• thesis statement

Burdened With Assignments?

Advertisement

• LEGAL Privacy Policy

© 2024 - All rights reserved

What Is The Difference Between An Autobiography And A Biography?

What are the differences between autobiographies and biographies? 

The two words are not interchangeable .

And neither is a subset of the other.

Once you get a handle on what sets them apart, you’ll never get them confused again. 

You’ll be able to explain the difference between autobiography and biography as proficiently as any publisher or semantics expert .

And you’ll know just how to market your book to get your ideal reader’s attention . 

Let’s get started. 

1. Autobiographies are written by (or with) the subject. 

2. autobiographies are in the first person; biographies are (typically) in the third person. , 3. biographies don’t require the permission of the subject. , 4. autobiographies can include the subject’s thoughts and feelings. , 5. autobiographies are more subjective; biographies are meant to be more objective. , 6. autobiographies generally cover the entire life from childhood to the present. , 7. autobiographies inform the reader about the subject’s motives. , the difference between autobiography and biography: 7 distinctions you should know .

You’re here for one reason: to finally settle the autobiography vs. biography question. Maybe someone asked you, and you weren’t sure of your answer. Or perhaps you’ve confused autobiography and biography one too many times. 

You’re not alone. And you’re about to learn the critical differences and what these two have in common. 

If you’re writing a book about your own life, you’re writing either an autobiography or a memoir . 

Even if you’re paying a ghostwriter to write most or all of it for you, based on conversations with them, you’re still considered the author, and it’s still an autobiography (or memoir ). 

Every autobiography results from the subject’s own writing or a collaboration between the subject and their ghostwriter. 

With an autobiography, you address the reader using the first-person point of view . You’re telling them a story about your life. 

Since someone other than the subject (or their ghostwriter) writes the biography, it’s written about the subject — not from their point of view. The author of a biography typically refers to the subject using the third person. 

Using the third person creates distance between the narrator and the subject. 

Before writing the book, the author of a biography may or may not reach out to the (living) subject. They may want the subject’s permission and input. 

On the other hand, they may choose to write an “unauthorized biography” with shock value, in which case permission from the subject is more an obstacle than an advantage.

Much depends on whether the biographer has any real interest in understanding the subject and their motives. 

Unlike biographies, where the author typically doesn’t have access to the subject’s thoughts and feelings, the author of an autobiography does. 

Because the author is the subject, they know and can share their deepest motives behind the actions they’ve taken. They remember thoughts that came right before they did something they regret (or not). 

They remember how they felt during the most significant moments of their lives. 

More Related Articles

Write A Powerful Book Introduction With These 5 Must-Do Steps + Examples

How To Write A Unique Book Dedication Page + 11 Examples

How To Make Your Book’s Table Of Contents Grab Readers And Reel Them In

Biographies are supposed to be objective retellings of the subject’s life or the most noteworthy parts of it. 

Autobiographies, by contrast, are more subjective since the one writing them is the subject . 

When you write your autobiography, you give the world your unique take on your life, what happened to you, and what you did with it.

Your autobiography is not meant to be objective; it’s meant to be personal. 

Autobiographies generally cover the entirety of the subject’s (i.e., author’s) life up to that point. Memoirs typically focus on a particular part of the subject’s life. 

Biographies, too, focus on certain parts or aspects of the subject’s life, whether it’s a scandal, a collection of little-known fact-based anecdotes, or the secret to the subject’s success (or downfall). 

The point of a biography is to satisfy the ideal reader’s curiosity about the subject. 

Autobiographies focus less on facts than on the motives behind them — specifically the subject’s motives since those are the only ones the author knows. 

The author-subject writing their autobiography is in a unique position to understand the true motives of their book’s main character. 

And readers who genuinely care about that are more likely to take the subject-author’s word than that of an unauthorized biographer speculating as to the subject’s motives.. 

Now that you know the facts behind the biography vs. autobiography question, we hope you find it easier to explain the differences to anyone who asks. 

Whatever type of life story you’re writing, may you have all the information, insight, and resources you need to make it unputdownable — and a credit to your name. 

Happy writing! 

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

• Ghost Writing
• Proofreading
• Book Marketing
• e-Book Writing
• Blog Writing
• Website Content Writing
• Article Writing
• Book Video Trailer
• Author Website
• Case Studies
• Testimonials
• +1855-479-4213
• Book a Call
• Get a Quote

Author : Caroline Chartrand

31st May 2023

Biography vs Autobiography: Differences and Features

When reading about someone’s life, you probably wonder if it is a biography or an autobiography. In this blog, we will compare biography vs autobiography. Also, we will explain the difference between autobiography and biography.

If we tell you in simple words, a biography is the life story of a person written by someone else. On the other hand, an autobiography is the life story of a person written by themselves.

Autobiographies have a more personal nature as they are based on the writers’ own thoughts and memories. On the other hand, biographies are more objective, as they are written with the help of others’ opinions and perspectives.

What is a Biography?

A biography, or you can call it a bio, is a written piece of someone’s life. It does not just contain basic info about the subject, but the experiences of them throughout their lives. It sheds light on various aspects of the subject’s life. For example:

• Personal details
• Family background
• Life events
• Achievements
• Triumphs in their field and their impact on the world

Biography Examples

Let’s have a look at some examples of famous biographies:

1- Steve Jobs

Steve Jobs is an authorized biography. The subject of the book Steve Jobs himself requested the author Walter Isaacson to write the story about him. Walter is also famous for biographical works like Benjamin Franklin and Albert Einstein.

2- Into the Wild

It is a nonfiction book based on the life of a young man who abandoned his life and disappeared into the wild. The author of this biographical story is Jon Krakauer.

What is an Autobiography?

An autobiography, informally called an autobio, is a biography of one’s own written by themselves. It is based on the memory of the writer. It generally enlightens the below aspects of the subject:

• Life description
• Meaning of life
• Significant experiences
• Personal failure
• Plans for future

Autobiography Examples

Let’s have a look at some of the autobiographical works:

1- I am Malala

The autobiography “I am Malala: The Story of the Girl Who Stood Up for Education was Shot by the Taliban” is the story of Malala. It was co-written by Christina Lamb.

2- Long Walk to Freedom

It is a biography of Nelson Mandela, ghostwritten by Richard Stengel. The book portrays his story from his early life to his years in prison.

Biography vs Autobiography: The Key Differences

While biographies and autobiographies are somehow similar, there are several contrasts between them. Let’s take a look at how they are different from each other.

You can find the difference between a biography and an autobiography by recognizing who writes it. A biography is always written by someone else other than the subject. Whereas in an autobiography, the subject of the story writes it themselves.

2- Point of View

A biography follows the third-person point of view. It uses “He, Him, His, She, Her, Hers.” In contrast, an autobiography follows the first-person point of view. It utilizes “I, Me, My” as the pronouns.

3- Authorized vs Unauthorized

If a story is written with the permission of the person, it will be an authorized work. Otherwise, it will be unauthorized because it is written without the consent of the person.

4- Authencity

An autobiography will be more authentic than a biography. An autobiography writer usually recalls his events and narrates his own experiences. On the other hand, biography writers gather info through different sources and by talking and interviewing various people. As a result, the input can differentiate from the reality.

5- Neutrality

Autobiographies can be more biased than biographies. The neutrality of the biographies can depend on the intent. Some writers can show themselves as more genuine than they are in reality in their autobiographies. However, when it comes to biographies, they can either go mild or extreme in talking about the subject.

Biography vs Autobiography: Similar Features

Autobiographies are basically a type of biographies. Therefore, they share some common elements. Let’s take a look.

Biographies, whether of someone else or of the writer, have the same purpose of telling people the story of their lives.

The genre of biographies is always nonfiction. A biography can not be a piece of fiction. If it is, it will fall under the category of a biographical novel.

The subject of biographies will always be famous people. The people who have achieved something in their life. For example, historical figures, celebs, political leaders, athletes, etc.

How to Write a Biography?

To write a biography , you can follow the below steps:

1- Get Permission

The first step to take in biography writing is to get the permission of the subject. In some conditions, it is not necessary. For example, if the subject is not alive anymore. However, if you have their consent, it will be helpful in your research, and the writing process will be easier. Also, the subject will give you some details by themselves that you may not have acquired without their permission.

2- Do Research

Research is necessary for biography writing. If you don’t have a sufficient amount of info about the subject, you can not compile a book about them. Therefore, you have to collect data and interview people as much as possible.

3- Write the Biography

The next step is to convert your research into words. Suppose you don’t have time or the ability to write. In that case, you can acquire ghostwriting services . It can help you create content for your book.

4- Format the Book

When you are done completing your written work, it’s time for book formatting . Most of the time, biographies follow chronological order. However, you can also follow a non-chronological order based on your preference.

5- Promote your Work

Your work will not find the right audience if you don’t advertise it well. Therefore, you should promote your biographical work effectively. For this, you can also benefit from book marketing services .

To learn more about what is a biography ? And how can you write one? You can read our blog.

How to Write an Autobiography?

Let’s have a look at tips on writing an autobiography:

1- Brainstorm Ideas

Begin with revisiting all the memories and events that happened in your life. Look for ideas you can talk about in your book. Also, consider both the positives and negatives so you can create unique content that attracts readers.

2- Create an Outline

Outlining helps you organize your content. Therefore, start your work by creating an outline. It will help the flow of the story; as a result, the reader will quickly understand the story.

3- Write the Autobiography

Autobiography books usually are written in the own voice of the subject. So, use first-person voice as you are speaking directly to the readers. Also, start with a solid intro, use anecdotes, and provide vivid details.

If you are also going for a digital version of your biographical book, you can have ebook writing services at your disposal. They can be handy in writing and also editing, and polishing your work.

4- Publishing the Book

The most challenging task to do after you have your story written is to publish it. High are the chances that you will need help regarding the publishing process, whether you are going for traditional publishing or you want to publish it yourself. It is where you can get in touch with a self-publishing company . The rest of the tasks to complete are on them.

You should also advertise your work so as many people as possible read your story. You can publish and market your work on various platforms. However, the best way to promote your story is through your author’s website. If you don’t have your own website, you can obtain author website design services and have your website showcasing your literary works.

Want to learn more? Read our detailed blog about what is an autobiography . Here you will get to know the “Autobiography Definition, Examples, & Writing Guide for 2024.”

Memoir vs Autobiography

After you know what’s the contrast and similarity between biography vs autobiography. Let’s look at the differences and similarities between a memoir vs an autobiography.

1- Memoir vs Autobiography: The Similarity

If we talk about memoir vs autobiography , they both are accounts of the writer’s life. Also, writers use the first-person point of view in both.

2- Memoir vs Autobiography: The Difference

In an autobiography, the writer talks about his whole life. Whereas, in a memoir, writers cover a small part of their life or tell an interesting or particular memory of their life.

Want to know more? Read our blog: What is a memoir?

What are the Two Types of Biography?

There are three types of biography, not two. They are:

• Autobiography

Why are Biographies Better than Autobiography?

Biographies are more neutralistic than autobiographies. Also, they tend to be less biased than autobiographies.

Is Autobiography Written in First?

Yes, autobiographies are written in the first-person point of view since they are written by the subject themselves.

Why is an Autobiography Called an Autobiography?

The words Auto, Bios, and Graphein came from Ancient Greek. Their meaning is “Self,” “Life,” and “To Write,” respectively.

After reading this blog, you will have a grasp of the difference between biography vs autobiography. Also, you will know what they are composed of. Learning this will help you when you write your biographical books. In addition, if you still need assistance in writing, you can ask Authors Breeze for their services.

Caroline Chartrand

As a writing expert, Caroline R Chartrand has written numerous books across various genres, from memoirs to self-help guides. With a passion for history and literature, she has delved into the lives of some of the fascinating figures in history, uncovering hidden stories and surprising facts.

Activate this offer

Literary English

Difference between Biography and Autobiography

Biography and autobiography and are two ways to explain a person’s life story. These two have some key differences and similarities. This article will discuss biography and autobiography in detail. Moreover, we will find some best autobiographies and biographies as well.

What exactly is a biography?

A biography, often known as a bio, is a detailed description of a person’s life. It shows a person’s experience of life events such as school, jobs, relationships, and death, rather than merely the basic facts. A biography book can represent the whole life events of an individual.

Unlike a resume or profile best biography explains the events in a person’s life in detail. We can write about essential aspects of their life and do a personality analysis in a biography book.

What exactly is an autobiography? 

The author writes an autobiography to represent their life experiences and success. That is why writers mostly write autobiographies at the end of their lives. It uses a first-person point of view because the main character writes it.

It is usually written by any famous personality who people want to know more about. It is not a rule that only well-known people can write their autobiographies. Anyone can write the story of their life.

Differences between biography and autobiography

Main differences between biography and autobiography are:

Anyone can write a biography of someone.

A biography book is often considered less accurate because someone else writes about another person.

Permissions are necessary to write a biography about someone. It can cause issues if the person is not comfortable to be written about.

A person who writes a biography book usually collects data through newspapers or journals. They can also interview the main character.

Some biography examples: are Steve Jobs, Leonardo the Vinci, Alexander Hamilton

Autobiography :

Any person can write an autobiography about themselves based on their perspectives.

An autobiography book is more accurate because the narrator has faced the events themselves.

There is no need of taking anyone’s permission to write an autobiography

Some autobiography examples are: The Diary of a Young Girl, Dreams from My Father, and Born a Crime. 

Memories and occasions of one’s life are the basis of an autobiography book.

Similarities between biography and autobiography

There are differences as well as some similar things between these two writing styles. These are:

Biographies and autobiographies are both nonfiction texts. They are based on reality.

Both types of writing are typically written in sequence. This indicates that they write events from birth to death, or from the present to the future.

We write biographies and autobiographies for the same objective. These narratives are intended to educate the reader about facts, events, and experiences from someone’s life.

Focus/subject: The subject of both are famous personalities. Many celebrities, scientists, politicians, and historical personalities have biographies and autobiographies.

Types of biographies

Biographies have four categories: historical fiction, academic, fictional academic, and prophetic biography.

Historical Fiction Biography

In this type, the author writes about the persons who are still alive. They can be celebrities, politicians, or any other famous personality. Their true stories inspire people and motivate them. Historical fiction biography book often becomes a movie with additional fiction added. It provides both entertainment and information. Facts related to the person are sometimes not accurate in this kind. Historical fiction does not need to be perfectly precise in information.

Academic Biography

An academic biography is based on documented facts and figures. This type requires accuracy and no fiction at all. A person’s life events and success are described with fact-checked data.  Academic biographies are not so simple to read. They provide many references related to the work. It is all history so people do not prefer to read something so dry. These biographies have a small readership and are rarely used outside of the classroom.

“John Wyclif: Myth and reality” is one of the academic biography examples.

Academic Fictional Biography

This type combines history and fiction. The combination is great because people get information in a fun way. The outcome is a balanced portrayal of how someone may have lived. It is done by mixing the author’s unique insights into life with the facts and teachings of the personality.

East to the Dawn: The Life of Amelia Earhart is one of the academic fictional biography examples.

Prophetic Biography

A prophetic biography varies from fictional biography. It tries to inspire the reader through the written personality. This type of biography creates a purpose along with entertainment. The goal is to give life lessons for the betterment of the readers. A fan of a prophetic biography will return to it again and again throughout their life for comfort, meaning, and guidance. “Free Eric. Bonhoeffer” and “Muhammad (PBUH) Islam and The First Arab Empire” are prophetic biography examples.

Types of Autobiography

An autobiography can be classified into four basic categories: thematic, religious, philosophical, and fictionalized.

Thematic Autobiography

Thematic autobiographies are typically more than just life stories. They express an underlying purpose within the narration. In this type, the author write autobiography to convey specific thoughts or ideals. The ideals can be any message that the author believes should be conveyed to the audience through this story.

Religious Autobiography In this type, author write autobiography that covers the journey towards religious enlightenment. People can take guidance from these autobiographies to follow the religious path. Thomas Merton’s “The Seven Storey Mountain” and “My Spiritual Journey” by the Dalai Lama are religious autobiography examples.

Scientific Autobiography

Scientific autobiography is about telling people about your journey. It tells important events that brought you to where you are now. You consider what has shaped your ideas and share it with the reader. Someone who reads this is curious about what has shaped you into who you are.

Fictional autobiography reflects the true experiences of the author. Some parts are dramatized to hide the identity of many people. Fiction is added to increase the artistic quantity of autobiography.

After reading all these types, you must be curious about how to write a biography or an autobiography. In this part we will teach you main points to write them.

How to Write a Biography

Following are the main points to write a Biography

Choose a subject

Take permissions

Research the subject

Form thesis

Outline the story

Include your thoughts

Choose a subject : The first step to write a biography is deciding on a subject. The method will be largely the same either way. You should look at important life events, relationships, and the person’s impact on society. Read more biography examples to get a better idea of writing it.

Take permissions: Once you’ve decided on a biography subject, get permission to write about their lives. If the person accepts, they will be able to provide accurate facts about their life.

Research the subject: To get the facts correct, research is essential. There are two types of research: primary and secondary. Primary sources are initial information about your subject’s life and are generally the most trustworthy sources. You can also use secondary information from magazines or documentaries if they are from valid sources.

Form Thesis : The first paragraph of your biography should tell the reader what they will learn about this individual from it.  It should be interesting to grab the reader’s attention.

Outline the Story: Determine the major argument, or thesis, and then outline how each section will tell a different element to support that thesis. Determine whether you want to write about the subject’s entire life or simply a portion of it.

Include your thoughts: The author might add their ideas in the biography. This will assist you in explaining to the audience why a particular personality influences you. will show the purpose of why you wrote about this person. It will keep the audience reading from the first to the last sentence.

How to Write an Autobiography

Writing about your life can be intimidating but it can become easy by following some rules.  Here’s a step-by-step tutorial on how to write an autobiography book:

Generate ideas

Create outline

Do research

Begin writing

Generate ideas: Make sure to cover all events of your life as you go through your memories. Begin with your youth, then move on to high school. Make sure to write about the event that made you famous.

Create Outline: Begin organizing a story based on the most interesting moments from your imagination. Then write every point that you will include in your autobiography book.

Research: You can interview your family and friends to remind you of details about different events.  Examine your journals or old diaries, if you have any.

Begin writing: For the first time, you will be unable to write well. Write down all of the information you remember. Then, sort them out and write again.

Proofread: You should identify weak points in the story and make positive changes. Consider what you’d seek in a biography of another individual and apply it to your autobiography.

List of some most famous biographies and autobiographies are given below:

Examples of Biography

Churchill: A life by martin gilbert

Alexander Hamilton by Ron Chernow

A beautiful mind by Sylvia Nasar

Into the Wild by Jon Krakauer

Rosemary: The Hidden Kennedy Daughter by Kate Clifford Larson

Shelley: The Pursuit by Richard Holmes

Steve Jobs by Walter Isaacson

Examples of Autobiography

Long Walk to Freedom by Nelson Mandela

I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings by Maya Angelou

Open by Andre Agassi

On Writing: A Memoir of the Craft by Stephen King

A Moveable Feast by Ernest Hemingway

Autobiography of Mark Twain

Dreams from My Father by Barack Obama

Conclusion :

There are many differences as well as similarities between biography and autobiography. You can write a biography of any famous personality by following the tips given above. The main tip to write a biography or autobiography is to read most of them first. Reading these is best for people who are interested in exploring non-fiction materials and history.

• Key Differences

Know the Differences & Comparisons

Difference between Biography and Autobiography

Both of these two presents the view of, what happened in the past where the author lived. These are non-fiction books, written in chronological order, tells a story about the person who made a significant contribution in a specific field. Many think that the two writing forms are one and the same thing, but there are noticeable difference between the two, that are presented in the given article.

Content: Biography Vs Autobiography

Comparison chart.

Definition of Biography

A biography also referred as ‘bio’ is a detailed account of a person’s life written or produced by another person. It gives an elaborate information regarding the birthplace, educational background, work, relationships and demise of the person concerned. It presents the subject’s intimate details about life, focusing on the highs and lows and analysing their whole personality.

A biography is usually in the written form but can also be made in other forms of a music composition or literature to film interpretation.

It is the recreation of the life of an individual composed of words by another person. The author collects every single detail about the subject and presents those facts in the biography, which are relevant and interesting, to engross the readers in the story.

Definition of Autobiography

An autobiography is the life sketch of a person written by that person himself or herself. The word auto means ‘self.’ Therefore, autobiography contains all the elements of a biography but composed or narrated by the author himself. He/She may write on their own or may hire ghostwriters to write for them.

An autobiography presents the narrator’s character sketch, the place where he is born and brought up, his education, work, life experiences, challenges, and achievements. This may include events and stories of his childhood, teenage, and adulthood.

Key Differences Between Biography and Autobiography

The difference between biography and autobiography are discussed in detail in the following points:

• Biography is a detailed account of a person’s life written by someone else, while an autobiography is written by the subject themselves.
• Biography can be written with (authorised) or without permission (unauthorised) from the person/heir’s concerned. Therefore, there are chances of factual mistakes in the information. On the other hand, autobiographies are self-written and therefore doesn’t require any authorization.
• Biographies contain information that is collected over a period of time from different sources and thus, it projects a different outlook to the readers. On the other hand, autobiographies are written by the subject themselves, therefore, the writer presents the facts and his thinking in his own way, thus providing an overall narrow and biased perspective to the readers.
• In an Autobiography, the author uses the first narrative like I, me, we, he, she, etc. This, in turn, makes an intimate connection between the author and the reader since the reader experience various aspects as if he/she is in that time period. As opposed a biography is from a third person’s view and is much less intimate.
• The purpose of writing a biography is to introduce and inform the readers about the person and his life whereas an autobiography is written in order to express, the life experiences and achievements of the narrator.

Video: Biography Vs Autobiography

There are several autobiographies which are worth mentioning like ‘The Story of My Life’ by Helen Keller, ‘An Autobiography’ by Jawaharlal Nehru, ‘The Diary of a Young Girl’ by Anne Frank, ‘Memoirs of the Second World War’ by Winston Churchill, ‘Wings of Fire’ by A. P. J. Abdul Kalam and much more.

Examples of some famous biographies are- Tolstoy: A Russian Life by Rosamund Bartlett, His Excellency: George Washington by Joseph J. Ellis, Einstein: The Life and Times by Ronald William Clark, Biography of Walt Disney: The Inspirational Life Story of Walt Disney – The Man Behind “Disneyland” by Steve Walters, Princess Diana- A Biography Of The Princess Of Wales by Drew L. Crichton.

You Might Also Like:

May 4, 2017 at 12:13 am

This website is amazing because my class is reading over it

Joseph says

February 21, 2023 at 8:18 am

I have gotten the answers I really needed at this site

Mukesh Kumar Guar says

February 12, 2019 at 1:52 pm

Little and complete information I was looking for.

Abdul Rahim Muhammad Latif says

February 26, 2019 at 6:09 pm

nice wake well done

Hanady says

October 18, 2019 at 5:51 pm

Amazing! Very helpful and useful. Thank you!

May 7, 2023 at 6:47 am

your article is very well explained

Manish Bhati says

June 21, 2023 at 11:51 am

Great explanation by Surbhi S, it clears confusion between biographies and autobiographies.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Microsoft 365 Life Hacks > Writing > What’s the difference between a biography and an autobiography?

What’s the difference between a biography and an autobiography?

If you’ve ever set foot in a bookstore, you’ve likely come across both autobiographies and biographies that tell about the lives of notable individuals. Let’s take a look at the most important differences between these non-fiction books.

What is a biography?

Typically written in the third person, a biography is a detailed story about a living or deceased person’s life. A third party writes this non-fiction account of someone’s life. Let’s say Person A is a famous singer who recently passed away. Person B researches and writes a fact-based story on the famous singer’s life from start to finish. Person B’s factual story of Person A’s life is a biography.

Types of biographies

Biographies don’t always take the same approach or follow the same structure. Some are more official, while others get more creative. Writers can choose from a few common biography types, including:

• Authorized biographies, which received the subject’s input and/or permission.
• Unauthorized biographies, which were written without the subject’s approval or input.
• Biographical novels, which were inspired by a real person’s life, but feature embellishments that may make the story more interesting.
• Group biographies, which focus on groups of people rather than a single person.

Get the most out of your documents with Word

Elevate your writing and collaborate with others - anywhere, anytime

Examples of biographies

Each biography is a window into someone’s life, offering unique insights and perspectives. From the struggles of historical figures to the triumphs of artistic icons, biographies are not just informative but can also be deeply inspiring. Here are a few examples:

• The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks by Rebecca Skloot is a biography that describes the life of Henrietta Lacks, an African American woman whose cells were extremely important for medical research.
• Catherine the Great: Portrait of a Woman by Robert K. Massie is a biography that describes Catherine the Great’s origins and rise to power as a Russian empress.
• Frida: A Biography of Frida Kahlo by Hayden Herrera details the painter’s life and famous works.

What is an autobiography?

Usually written in the first person, an autobiography is when the author writes about their own life. This subjective account is unique because it allows the author to share details of their life that another writer might not have been able to uncover.

Types of autobiographies

There are two main types of autobiographies: complete autobiographies and memoirs. In a complete autobiography, the author begins their story with their roots or birth and ends the autobiography at their current age. In a memoir, the author writes about a specific period of their life. For example, a famous actor may begin a memoir by sharing their first role in a movie, rather than sharing details about the beginning of their life or their childhood.

Examples of autobiographies

Autobiographies offer a unique lens into the lives of their authors, providing firsthand accounts of their experiences, challenges, and triumphs. Here are a few examples of notable autobiographies:

• In Autobiography of a Yogi by Paramahansa Yogananda, Yogananda provides a first-hand account of his life and spiritual growth.
• In The Story of My Life by Helen Keller, Keller shares her life from birth until she was 22. She shares how she learned to communicate despite being blind and deaf.
• In The Autobiography of Malcolm X by Malcolm X, he shares his life from childhood through adulthood and how he impacted the civil rights movement.

In summary, a biography is a story of someone’s life, written by a different person, versus an autobiography where an author writes about their own life.

Why should you read biographies (or autobiographies)?

Biographies and autobiographies are a great way to get an in-depth look at the lives of politicians, musicians, historical figures, innovators, and more. If there’s a famous person that you admire, there’s likely a biography written about them or an autobiography that they wrote themselves that can teach you more about their accomplishments.

If you’re interested in writing a biography or autobiography, see how you can write, research, and organize a book using OneNote . Whether you’re just putting together your first draft or you’re still outlining your story , you can elevate your writing in real time with Microsoft Editor .

Get started with Microsoft 365

It’s the Office you know, plus the tools to help you work better together, so you can get more done—anytime, anywhere.

Topics in this article

More articles like this one.

When to use 'while' vs. 'whilst'

“While” and “whilst” are usually interchangeable, but not always. See how they differ and learn how to use them effectively.

What is touch typing (and why is it important)?

Learn about the benefits of touch typing and how it can help you type faster and more accurately.

Is it “per say” or ‘per se’?

Address the misspelling of ‘per se’ to effectively communicate the intrinsic quality of something. Learn why it is commonly misspelled and how to use it correctly in your writing.

Elicit vs. illicit: What’s the difference?

Learn the difference between illicit vs. elicit, two homophones that sound alike but mean different things, and write without confusion.

Everything you need to achieve more in less time

Get powerful productivity and security apps with Microsoft 365

Explore Other Categories

Difference Between Biography and Autobiography (With Table)

Biography and autobiography are two literary genres that revolve around the life stories of individuals. Despite sharing a common subject matter, there are distinct differences between these two forms of literature. While both biography and autobiography aim to tell the life story of an individual, they differ in terms of authorship and perspective. In this article, we will discuss the similarities and differences between biography and autobiography with the help of a table and other key differences.

Table of Contents

Biography Vs Autobiography (Chart)

• Difference Between Fiction and Nonfiction
• Difference Between Race and Ethnicity
• Difference Between Technical and Creative Writing

What is Biography?

A biography is a written account of a person’s life story, written by another person. It is an objective account of the life of an individual, including significant events, accomplishments, and notable contributions. A biographer conducts extensive research to gather information about the individual, including interviews with family members, friends, and colleagues. Biographers often use primary sources such as diaries, letters, and other personal documents to gain a deeper understanding of the subject’s life.

A biography can be written in various formats, including a chronological account of the subject’s life, a thematic approach that focuses on specific aspects of the individual’s life, or a combination of both. Biographies can be written for a wide audience or targeted to a specific demographic. Biographies can also be written in different styles, such as academic or popular, depending on the intended readership.

What is Autobiography?

An autobiography is a written account of a person’s life story, written by the individual themselves. It is a first-person account of one’s life experiences, providing insights into the author’s thoughts, feelings, and personal perspectives. Autobiographies often provide a deeper understanding of the subject’s life, as they offer unique insights into the individual’s thought processes and motivations.

Autobiographies can also be written in various formats, including a chronological account of the author’s life, a thematic approach that focuses on specific events or experiences, or a combination of both. Like biographies, autobiographies can be written for a wide audience or targeted to a specific demographic.

Key Differences Between Biography and Autobiography

While comparing biography and autobiography, here we have included some of the key differences between them. They are as follows.

• Authorship: The most significant difference between biography and autobiography is authorship. A biography is written by another person, while an autobiography is written by the individual themselves. Biographies are therefore objective accounts of the subject’s life, while autobiographies are subjective accounts of the author’s experiences.
• Perspective: Biographies offer an outsider’s perspective on the subject’s life, while autobiographies offer a first-person perspective. Autobiographies provide unique insights into the author’s thoughts, feelings, and personal experiences. On the other hand, biographies rely on interviews and primary sources to gain a deeper understanding of the subject’s life.
• Purpose: Biographies are often written to provide an objective account of an individual’s life. On the other hand, autobiographies are often written to offer a personal perspective on the author’s life experiences. Biographies can also be written to provide insights into historical events or cultural movements. In contrast, autobiographies are often written for therapeutic or personal reasons.

The following comparison table also shows the difference between biography and autobiography in a brief manner.

3 Similarities between Biography and Autobiography

• Both genres aim to tell the life story of an individual. Whether written by an author or the individual themselves, both biographies and autobiographies aim to provide a comprehensive account of the subject’s life experiences.
• Both genres rely on extensive research to gather information about the subject’s life. Biographers conduct interviews and use primary sources to gain a deeper understanding of the individual’s life, while autobiographers draw on their personal experiences and memories to create a first-person account.
• And finally, both genres can be written in various formats, including a chronological account of the subject’s life or a thematic approach that focuses on specific events or experiences.

In conclusion, biography and autobiography are two distinct genres that share a common subject matter. whether you prefer reading about the lives of others or writing about your own experiences, both biography, and autobiography offer rich and engaging narratives that can inspire, educate, and entertain readers for generations to come.

Basir Saboor

Related articles.

Democracy Vs Dictatorship : The Battle of Two Systems [2023]

Growth Hacking Vs Digital Marketing: How Do They Differ?

Difference Between Abstract and Introduction(With Table)

Invention Vs Innovation: What’s the Difference?

One comment.

• Pingback: Fact Vs Opinion : Examples and 7 Differences (With Table)

Biographies and autobiographies

Part of English Non-fiction Year 5

Watch: What are autobiographies and biographies?

Imagine the same story, but told by Mary Anning herself. How would it be different? What would Mary's thoughts and feelings be?

Re-write the story as if you were Mary writing your autobiography.

Use this sentence to start you off:

My name is Mary Anning and I was born on the 21 May, 1799.

More on Non-fiction

Find out more by working through a topic

Using evidence to support what you say

• count 14 of 18

Writing a speech

• count 15 of 18

Diary writing

• count 16 of 18

Editing and redrafting

• count 17 of 18

Home » Writing » Autobiography vs. Biography vs. Memoir

What is a Biography?

A biography, also called a bio, is a non-fiction piece of work giving an objective account of a person’s life. The main difference between a biography vs. an autobiography is that the author of a biography is not the subject. A biography could be someone still living today, or it could be the subject of a person who lived years ago.

Biographies include details of key events that shaped the subject’s life, and information about their birthplace, education, work, and relationships. Biographers use a number of research sources, including interviews, letters, diaries, photographs, essays, reference books, and newspapers. While a biography is usually in the written form, it can be produced in other formats such as music composition or film.

If the target person of the biography is not alive, then the storytelling requires an immense amount of research. Interviews might be required to collect information from historical experts, people who knew the person (e.g., friends and family), or reading other older accounts from other people who wrote about the person in previous years. In biographies where the person is still alive, the writer can conduct several interviews with the target person to gain insight on their life.

The goal of a biography is to take the reader through the life story of the person, including their childhood into adolescence and teenage years, and then their early adult life into the rest of their years. The biography tells a story of how the person learned life’s lessons and the ways the person navigated the world. It should give the reader a clear picture of the person’s personality, traits, and their interaction in the world.

Biographies can also be focused on groups of people and not just one person. For example, a biography can be a historical account of a group of people from hundreds of years ago. This group could have the main person who was a part of the group, and the author writes about the group to tell a story of how they shaped the world.

Fictional biographies mix some true historical accounts with events to help improve the story. Think of fictional biographies as movies that display a warning that the story is made of real characters, but some events are fictional to add to the storyline and entertainment value. A lot of research still goes into a fictional biography, but the author has more room to create a storyline instead of sticking to factual events.

Examples of famous biographies include:

• His Excellency: George Washington  by Joseph J. Ellis
• Einstein: The Life and Times  by Ronald William Clark
• Princess Diana – A Biography of The Princess of Wales  by Drew L. Crichton

What is an Autobiography?

An autobiography is the story of a person’s life written by that person. Because the author is also the main character of the story, autobiographies are written in the first person. Usually, an autobiography is written by the person who is the subject of the book, but sometimes the autobiography is written by another person. Because an autobiography is usually a life story for the author, the theme can be anything from religious to a personal account to pass on to children.

The purpose of an autobiography is to portray the life experiences and achievements of the author. Therefore, most autobiographies are typically written later in the subject’s life. It’s written from the point of view of the author, so it typically uses first person accounts to describe the story.

An autobiography often begins during early childhood and chronologically details key events throughout the author’s life. Autobiographies usually include information about where a person was born and brought up, their education, career, life experiences, the challenges they faced, and their key achievements.

On rare occasions, an autobiography is created from a person’s diary or memoirs. When diaries are used, the author must organize them to create a chronological and cohesive story. The story might have flashbacks or flashforwards to describe a specific event, but the main storyline should follow chronological order from the author’s early life to their current events.

One of the main differences between an autobiography vs. a biography is that autobiographies tend to be more subjective. That’s because they are written by the subject, and present the facts based on their own memories of a specific situation, which can be biased. The story covers the author’s opinions on specific subjects and provides an account of their feelings as they navigate certain situations. These stories are also very personal because it’s a personal account of the author’s life rather than a biography where a third party writes about a specific person.

Examples of famous autobiographies include:

• The Story of My Life  by Helen Keller
• The Diary of a Young Girl  by Anne Frank
• Losing My Virginity  by Richard Branson

What is a Memoir?

Memoir comes from the French word  mémoire , meaning memory or reminiscence. Similar to an autobiography, a memoir is the story of a person’s life written by that person. These life stories are often from diary entries either from a first-person account or from a close family member or friend with access to personal diaries.

The difference between a memoir vs. an autobiography is that a memoir focuses on reflection and establishing an emotional connection, rather than simply presenting the facts about their life. The author uses their personal knowledge to tell an intimate and emotional story about the private or public happenings in their life. The author could be the person in the story, or it can be written by a close family member or friend who knew the subject person intimately. The topic is intentionally focused and does not include biographical or chronological aspects of the author’s life unless they are meaningful and relevant to the story.

Memoirs come in several types, all of which are written as an emotional account of the target person. They usually tell a story of a person who went through great struggles or faced challenges in a unique way. They can also cover confessionals where the memoir tells the story of the author’s account that contradicts another’s account.

This genre of writing is often stories covering famous people’s lives, such as celebrities. In many memoir projects, the celebrity or person of interest needs help with organization, writing the story, and fleshing out ideas from the person’s diaries. It might take several interviews before the story can be fully outlined and written, so it’s not uncommon for a memoir project to last several months.

Memoirs do not usually require as much research as biographies and autobiographies, because you have the personal accounts in diary entries and documents with the person’s thoughts. It might require several interviews, however, before the diary entries can be organized to give an accurate account on the person’s thoughts and emotions. The story does not necessarily need to be in chronological order compared to an autobiography, but it might be to tell a better story.

Examples of famous memoirs include:

• Angela’s Ashes  by Frank McCourt
• I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings  by Maya Angelou
• Personal Memoirs of Ulysses S.  Grant by Ulysses S. Grant

Autobiography vs. Biography vs. Memoir Comparison Chart

Check out some of our blogs to learn more about memoirs:

• What is a memoir?
• 5 tips for writing a memoir
• Your memoir is your legacy

Ready to get started on your own memoir, autobiography, or biography? Download our free desktop book-making software, BookWright .

Autobiographies , Biographies , memoirs

This post doesn't have any comment. Be the first one!

This is a unique website which will require a more modern browser to work! Please upgrade today!

This is a modern website which will require Javascript to work.

Please turn it on!

How To Write An Autobiography

Autobiography Vs Biography

Last updated on: Dec 31, 2023

Similarities & Differences of Autobiography vs Biography

By: Cathy A.

Reviewed By: Jacklyn H.

Published on: Jan 4, 2023

Autobiographies are a great way to share your story with the world. It can be tough, funny and emotional all at once!

Biography is usually more about telling facts than it is about writing in a third-person voice like an autobiography does but both have their own unique qualities that make them worth reading for anyone.

We're committed to making sure that each and every one of our customers have the best experience possible.

Do you enjoy reading autobiographies or biographies? Are you unsure of the difference between these two? In this blog post, we will explore the key differences between these two types of books.

Keep reading to find out more!

On this Page

Autobiography vs Biography - Definition

Key Elements of a Good Autobiography

These are the main characteristics of an autobiography:

• It always presents the facts in a 1st-person narrative.
• More detailed & subjective than a biography.
• Discusses the life of the character in much detail.
• It also tells the reason behind the actions of the main character.

Popular Examples of Autobiographies and Biographies

Here are many examples that you can read and use samples for writing your stories:

Autobiographies

The famous autobiographies include:

• The Diary of a Young Girl by Anne Frank
• The Story of My Life by Helen Keller
• I Am Malala by Malala Yousafzai
• Kitchen Confidential by Anthony Bourdain
• Long Walk to Freedom by Nelson Mandela
• Born a Crime by Trevor Noah
• M Train by Patti Smith
• Not Yet by Wayson Choy
• This Is Happy by Camilla Gibb
• My Prizes by Thomas Bernhard

Biographies

The famous biographies include:

• The Life and Times by Ronald William Clark
• His Excellency: George Washington by Joseph J. Ellis and Einstein
• A Beautiful Mind by Sylvia Nasar
• Alexander Hamilton by Ron Chernow
• Barracoon: The Story of the Last "Black Cargo" by Zora Neale Hurston
• Churchill: A Life by Martin Gilbert
• E=mc²: A Biography of the World's Most Famous Equation by David Bodanis
• Enrique's Journey by Sonia Nazario
• Frida: A Biography of Frida Kahlo by Hayden Herrera
• The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks by Rebecca Skloot

Paper Due? Why Suffer? That's our Job!

Main Differences between & Autobiography

There are many key differences between autobiography and biography, some of them are:

• Biography is the story of someone’s life written by some other writer. Autobiographies are usually written by the subjects themselves.
• Biographies can be an interesting read whether or not you have permission to use the subject's life story. Autobiographics are self-written accounts, so they do not require any form of legal clearance before publication.
• The information in a biography is based on the information collected from various sources. On the other hand, the information is narrowed down in an autobiography.
• Autobiography uses first-person pronouns, whereas biographies use third-person pronouns.
• Biography aims to provide readers with an in-depth look into the life experiences of a person, whereas in an autobiography, the author simply writes about themself.

Autobiography vs Biography vs Memoir

The story of one's life is an interesting and captivating read, but how can we not put it in writing? Memoirs are just like autobiographies and they are also written by the person himself.

Memoirs are a great way to explore your life and memories from every angle. You can go back in time with these written accounts, or look at how you felt about certain events when they happened because there is no limit on what type of memory an author could choose for their memoir.

Memoirs are a unique form of literature that offers the reader an immersive and detailed look into one person’s life. On the other hand, biographies provide more information about someone than just their story; they often include background details to help paint context for what you're reading.

Tough Essay Due? Hire Tough Writers!

Comparison Chart-Autobiography vs Biography vs Memoir

The difference between an autobiography and a biography is often unclear. The two genres tend to be interchangeable, but there are some key differences you should know if your goal is writing of these.

When writing your own life story, it's important to take the time and make sure that you are telling a compelling tale in which readers can feel like they're right there alongside you.

We hope that this guide is helpful for you. In case, you need help writing these kind of books you can contact professional writers who provide writing help for these books.

Natural Sciences, Life Sciences

Cathy has been one of our most reliable authors for more than five years. With extensive knowledge in mass communication gained from her Master's degree, she always produces high-quality work that meets the needs of her clients. In fact, they often leave her 5-star reviews for being an outstanding writer who is very passionate about her craft.

Was This Blog Helpful?

Keep reading.

• How to Write an Autobiography In Simple Steps

People Also Read

• personal statement examples
• personal narrative essay
• research paper topics
• informative speech topics

Burdened With Assignments?

Advertisement

© 2024 - All rights reserved

2000+ SATISFIED STUDENTS

95% Satisfaction RATE

30 Days Money Back GUARANTEE

95% Success RATE

Privacy Policy | Terms & Conditions | Contact Us

© 2021 SharkPapers.com(Powered By sharkpapers.com). All rights reserved.

© 2022 Sharkpapers.com. All rights reserved.

LOGIN TO YOUR ACCOUNT

SIGN UP TO YOUR ACCOUNT

• Your phone no.
• Confirm Password
•    I have read Privacy Policy and agree to the Terms and Conditions .

FORGOT PASSWORD

• SEND PASSWORD

In order to continue enjoying our site, we ask that you confirm your identity as a human. Thank you very much for your cooperation.

• Privacy Policy
• Editorial Policy
• Terms and Conditions

• Engineering

Difference Between Biography and Autobiography

The written accounts of people’s lives have always been a source of inspiration, knowledge, and understanding of history and human experiences. Two common forms of such literary works are biography and autobiography. While they both delve into the lives of individuals, there are significant differences between the two genres. In this article, we will explore the dissimilarities between biography and autobiography, understanding their definitions, characteristics, and significance as unique forms of storytelling.

Table of Contents

The main difference between Biography and Autobiography is that a biography is a written account of a person’s life written by someone else, while an autobiography is a written account of a person’s life written by the individual themselves.

Below is a table highlighting the possible differences between a Biography and an Autobiography:

What is a Biography?

A biography is a written account of a person’s life, typically written by someone else. It is an objective narrative that delves into the person’s background, experiences, achievements, challenges, and impact on society. Biographies often aim to provide a comprehensive and unbiased view of the subject’s life, capturing the essence of their character and accomplishments.

Characteristics of Biographies

• Third-Person Perspective: Biographies are usually written in the third person, maintaining a degree of detachment between the author and the subject.
• Research and Fact-Based: Biographers extensively research and verify the information presented, ensuring accuracy and authenticity.
• External Insight: Biographers analyze the subject’s life from an outsider’s perspective, often incorporating historical and cultural context.

Importance of Biographies

Biographies hold significant value in various ways:

• Preserving History: Biographies document the lives of notable individuals, preserving their legacy for future generations.
• Inspiration: Reading about the lives of accomplished individuals can inspire and motivate readers to overcome challenges and achieve greatness.
• Understanding Human Nature: Biographies provide insights into human emotions, behaviors, and decision-making processes.

What is an Autobiography?

An autobiography, on the other hand, is a self-written account of a person’s life. It offers a first-hand perspective as the author narrates their own experiences, memories, and reflections. Autobiographies are deeply personal and provide an intimate understanding of the author’s thoughts and emotions.

Characteristics of Autobiographies

• First-Person Perspective: Autobiographies are written in the first person, offering a direct connection between the author and the reader.
• Subjective Narration: Authors infuse their personal feelings, perspectives, and interpretations into the narrative.
• Reflection and Introspection: Autobiographies often include self-reflection and introspection, allowing readers to understand the author’s growth and development.

Importance of Autobiographies

Autobiographies hold significance for various reasons:

• Personal Connection: Readers can emotionally connect with the author’s experiences and empathize with their journey.
• Insight into Personal Development: Autobiographies provide insights into how life experiences shape an individual’s character and choices.
• Authenticity: Being a firsthand account, autobiographies are considered highly authentic and genuine.

Key Biography vs. Autobiography Differences

Perspective.

The primary difference between biography and autobiography lies in the perspective of the narrative. Biographies are written by someone else, providing an external view of the subject’s life, while autobiographies are self-written, offering a subjective and personal viewpoint.

In biographies, the author is an outsider who researches and writes about the subject’s life. In contrast, autobiographies are authored by the individual whose life is being depicted.

Reliability

Biographies are often regarded as more reliable since they are based on extensive research and multiple sources. Autobiographies, while authentic, may carry some degree of bias and subjectivity.

Biographies typically cover the entire life of the subject, including early life, achievements, and later years. Autobiographies, on the other hand, may focus on specific life events or periods.

Biographies target a broader audience, offering an impartial account of the subject’s life. Autobiographies may attract readers who seek a personal connection with the author’s experiences.

Writing Styles of Biography and Autobiography

Narrative approach.

Biographies often use a chronological approach, presenting events in the order they occurred. Autobiographies may use a more fluid and reflective approach, emphasizing personal experiences and emotions.

Third-Person vs. First-Person

Biographies adopt the third-person perspective, providing objectivity. Autobiographies, as a first-person account, offer a sense of intimacy and direct involvement.

Impact and Significance of Biography and Autobiography

Both biography and autobiography play crucial roles in literature and history:

• Impact: Biographies provide insights into the lives of historical figures, leaders, and influential individuals, offering valuable lessons and inspiration for readers.
• Significance: They contribute to preserving and understanding the past, shaping collective memory, and promoting empathy and understanding of diverse experiences.

Autobiography:

• Impact: Autobiographies offer a direct and personal perspective, enabling readers to connect intimately with the author’s life journey, struggles, and achievements.
• Significance: Autobiographies empower individuals to share their unique stories, inspiring others, fostering self-reflection, and promoting the importance of personal narratives in human history.

Examples of Famous Biographies and Autobiographies

Famous biographies.

• Nelson Mandela: “Long Walk to Freedom”
• Steve Jobs: “Steve Jobs”
• Albert Einstein: “Einstein: His Life and Universe”

Famous Autobiographies

• Maya Angelou: “I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings”
• Benjamin Franklin: “The Autobiography of Benjamin Franklin”
• Malala Yousafzai: “I Am Malala”

In conclusion, the difference between biography and autobiography lies in the perspective, authorship, and focus of the narrative. Biographies are written by others, providing an objective account of a person’s life, while autobiographies are authored by the subject, offering a subjective and personal viewpoint. Both genres contribute significantly to literature and history, presenting diverse perspectives on the lives of remarkable individuals and providing readers with valuable insights into the human experience. Whether it is the impartiality of biographies or the intimate self-reflection of autobiographies, these literary forms enrich our understanding of the world and the people who shape it.

Editor Recommendations

Incall vs outcall: what’s the difference in their services.

• Difference Between Abridged and Unabridged Birth Certificate
• Ignorance vs Stupidity: What’s the Difference?
• Blink Armed vs Disarmed: Everthing You need to Know

Raees Ahmad

Meet Raees Ahmad, the founder and CEO of KnowDifferences.com. He's like a superhero with different skills. One part of him manages content, another part is an expert at organizing and planning writing tasks, and two parts of him lead a team of talented content creators. By working together, they make amazing content for everyone to enjoy.

Recommended .

Difference Between Concave And Convex Mirror

Difference Between Vectored and Non-Vectored Interrupts

Difference between mypaid and mypaid forte, difference between prexum and prexum plus.

What’s the difference between Chubby and Fat

Difference Between Quma and Muthi Wenyoni Antacid 100ml

Our mission is to be your go-to resource for gaining a deep understanding of the differences between various concepts, objects, or terms. With our comprehensive and user-friendly approach, we strive to simplify complex subjects and help you grasp the nuances that set them apart.

Recent Articles

Difference between accounting profit and economic profit, difference between accounting and bookkeeping.

Difference Between Entrepreneur and Businessman

© 2024 Know Differences All Rights Reserved.

Welcome Back!

Login to your account below

Remember Me

Retrieve your password

Please enter your username or email address to reset your password.

Biography & Autobiography: What’s The Difference?

Since the beginning of time, people have loved telling stories. Most favourably? Stories about themselves. You may well remember learning about genre and book type in your English lessons at school, but, for many of us, this knowledge fades out with algebra and times tables as we grow older.

Despite differences between types and genres being one of the first things we are taught about books, many readers still get confused between categories like fiction and non-fiction — and, especially, biography and autobiography.

If you’re still stumped by the subtle variations between these two classification types, we’ve got you covered. Read on for a comprehensive guide to biography, autobiography, and the differences between them.

What is biography?

If you’ve ever used social media, you’ll likely have had to set up a profile at some point. Many platforms prompt their users to fill out a “bio” when setting up an account, giving core information about themselves, their core interests, or personal lives. This is usually short but can include quotes, dates, relationship statuses, and even important achievements. If you haven’t guessed yet, “bio” is short for “biography”. Applying this to a literary context, then, a biography is a non-ficton (factual) piece of writing about a person. Like when setting up a social media account, a biography can contain everything from accounts of childhood, to birthplace, education, and work. However, unlike an Instagram or Twitter ‘bio’, a biography about someone doesn’t have to be written by the person it’s about. Unlike autobiography, in a biography the author is not the subject of the work. A biography is a work of literature written by someone about someone else — famous or family, living or someone who lived years ago.

Key features of biographies

Since biographies are written by an author about someone else, they are usually highly factual, using sources and information from any one of the following:

• Family or friend testimonials 
• Photographs 
• Newspaper clippings
• Documentaries
• Interviews (if the person is living).

Biographies also usually follow a chronological order, taking readers on a journey from the start of the subject’s life until either the end or the point at which the biography is being written. As such, it is common for the chapters in biography books to relate to two time periods.

Biographies you may know

A few famous examples of biographies you may well have encountered:

• Alan Turing: The Enigma, Andrew Hodges (1983)
• Churchill: A Life , Martin Gilbert (1991)
• E=mc²: A Biography of the World’s Most Famous Equation , David Bodanis (2000)
• Steve Jobs, Walter Isaacson (2011)
• Alexander Hamilton, Ron Chernow (2004)
• The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks , Rebecca Skloot (2010)
• Mad Girl’s Love Song: Sylvia Plath and Life Before Ted ,  Andrew Wilson (2013)

To learn more about biography as a genre, explore the different subgenres of biography, and read our reviews for this genre, head over to our main Biography page .

What is an autobiography?

Different to biography – but only in authorship, really – autobiography refers to the genre in which individuals chronicle their own lives. 

Unique in its first-person narrative perspective, rare in non-fiction aside from essays, autobiography is a great opportunity for individuals to offer wider insight into their personal lives, achievements, and thoughts. While anyone can write an autobiography, mostly they are written by celebrities or individuals who are well-renowned in a certain area to inform and entertain others.

When it comes to the amplification of marginalised voices, autobiography has been an influential genre, allowing individuals who otherwise may not have had the space to do so to write about their experiences at length. As a form of literature, the term ‘autobiography’ was first used in 1797 by William Taylor. If we break down the term, using latin derivatives, we can gain an even clearer understanding:

Auto (self) bio (life) graph (writing)

Core features of autobiographies

Aside from the chronological approach also seen in biography, due to the self-authored nature of autobiographies, the most common literary feature in them is the use of the first-person singular, “I”. Readers of autobiography will also encounter a lot of “me” and “my” too.

Another common feature is the use of time connectives such as “while”, “when”, “whilst”, “before”, “after”, and “during”. These are used to place readers at specific moments in the subject’s life.

You can expect to come across a great deal of sentimentality in autobiographical works, often with a nostalgic or melancholic tone — especially when discussing childhood. Why? Because, although the reading of an autobiography is a journey for the reader, it is also an exercise in self-reflection for the writer too, and this can be quite heavy.

Lastly, autobiographies – if not published posthumously (that is, after an individual has died) – often end with a look towards the future as the author anticipates where they will go next.

Autobiographies you may know

Some of the most famous autobiographies you may have come across – old and new – are as follows: 

• Spare , Prince Harry, Duke of Sussex (2023)
• The Autobiography of Malcolm X , Malcolm X and Alex Haley (1965)
• I Am Malala: The Girl Who Stood Up for Education and Was Shot by the Taliban , Malala Yousafzai (2013)
• The Diary of a Young Girl , Anne Frank (1947)
• The Autobiography of Benjamin Franklin , Benjamin Franklin, (1791)
• I’m Glad My Mom Died, Jenette McCurdy (2022)
• The Illustrated Long Walk to Freedom, Nelson Mandela (1994)
• Narrative of the Life of Frederick Douglass , an American Slave , Frederick Douglass (1845)

The differences between biography & autobiography

Simply put, then, while biography is a factual account of someone’s life written by a separate author, autobiography is a telling of someone’s own life in their own words. Got that?

If you’re keen to keep learning about all things books, stay up to date with the Victoria Freudenheim blog and never miss a literary trick again. And, if you’re looking for your next read, check out our latest reviews page to get inspired.

Frank Herbert

Strong Female Character

Those Who Wish Me Dead

Michael Koryta

It Ends With Us

Colleen Hoover

• Book Series
• Recommendations

Autobiography vs. Biography vs. Memoir: Understanding the Differences

Autobiography, biography, and memoir are three genres of literature that share similarities but are also distinct from one another. While they tell stories about people’s lives, they differ in scope, perspective, and purpose. Understanding the differences between these genres is vital for readers, writers, and researchers alike.

So, what exactly makes them different from each other?

In this article, we’ll compare autobiography vs. biography vs. memoir, discover the definitions of each, and see the best examples of each genre.

But before we dive deep into the topic and learn about these three book genres, let’s see a quick overview of what an autobiography, a biography, and a memoir are for those in a hurry!

An autobiography is a book written by the person whose life is being described. It is a first-person narrative that covers the author’s entire life, from birth to the present day. On the other hand, a biography is a book written about a person’s life by someone else. It is a third-person narrative that covers the subject’s life in a factual and objective manner.

Meanwhile, a memoir is similar to an autobiography, but instead of describing the person’s entire life, it focuses on a particular event or a specific period and delves deeper into the author’s state of mind at the time.

Now that you have a rough idea of what an autobiography, a biography, and a memoir mean, let’s move ahead and explore all these book genres in much more detail.

What is an Autobiography?

An autobiography is a book written by an individual about their own life. It covers the author’s experiences, thoughts, and feelings throughout their life.

Autobiographies are typically written in the first person and are subjective in nature. They can cover many topics, including personal experiences, family history, career achievements, and more.

An autobiography aims to provide readers with an in-depth look into the author’s life. It can be a way for the author to share their story, inspire others, or leave a legacy. Autobiographies can also be used as a form of therapy, allowing the author to reflect on their life experiences and gain a deeper understanding of themselves.

Autobiographies can be both subjective and objective. While they are written from the author’s point of view, they can still provide an accurate account of events. However, it is essential to note that autobiographies are not always completely accurate, as memories can be flawed and biased.

Autobiographies can cover a wide range of events and information. Some may focus on a specific period or event in the author’s life, while others may cover their entire life from birth to the present day.

Autobiographies are often written by famous people, such as politicians, athletes, and celebrities, who want to tell their life stories in their own words. They can be insightful and revealing, but they can also be self-serving and biased.

Here are a few famous autobiographies:

• “The Diary of a Young Girl” by Anne Frank
• “Born a Crime” by Trevor Noah
• “Becoming” by Michelle Obama
• “An Autobiography” by Agatha Christie
• “The Autobiography of Malcolm X” by Malcolm X
• “Long Walk to Freedom” by Nelson Mandela

What is a Biography?

A biography is a non-fictional account of someone’s life written by another person. It provides an objective understanding of the person’s life, covering various aspects such as their upbringing, education, career, achievements, and personal life.

The author of a biography is not the subject, and their interpretation of the subject’s life is not expected to be included in the text.

Biographies can be written about anyone, from historical figures to ordinary people who have made a significant impact on society. They are often researched and written by scholars, journalists, and other experts who want to provide a comprehensive and accurate account of a person’s life. And so, they are generally considered to be objective, as the author is expected to present a factual account of the subject’s life without any personal bias.

Biographies cover various events and information about the subject’s life. They may include details about the subject’s childhood, education, family life, career, and personal relationships. Biographies may also provide insights into the subject’s personality, beliefs, and values.

Here are some popular biographies and their authors:

• “Steve Jobs” by Walter Isaacson
• “A Beautiful Mind” by Sylvia Nasar
• “Unbroken” by Laura Hillenbrand
• “Mao: The Unknown Story” by Jung Chang
• “The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks” by Rebecca Skloot
• “Einstein: His Life and Universe” by Walter Isaacson

What is a Memoir?

A memoir is a form of autobiographical writing that focuses on a specific period, theme, or series of events in the author’s life. It is much similar to an autobiography; the only difference is that an autobiography covers the author’s entire life while the memoir is focused on a particular period or event.

Memoirs are personal narratives that typically include the author’s reflections, emotions, and thoughts about their experiences. They are often considered to be subjective, as they are based on the author’s memories and perceptions of events, rather than objective facts.

To be considered a memoir, a book must be a factual account of the author’s life, but it does not have to be a comprehensive chronicle of their entire life. Instead, it should provide insight into a particular aspect of their life, such as their childhood, career, or personal relationships.

Here are some popular memoirs that have resonated with readers:

• “Educated” by Tara Westover
• “The Glass Castle” by Jeannette Walls
• “Heavy: An American Memoir” by Kiese Laymon
• “Wild: From Lost to Found on the Pacific Crest Trail” by Cheryl Strayed
• “Running with Scissors” by Augusten Burroughs
• “Night” by Elie Wiesel

These memoirs are just a few examples of the wide range of experiences and themes that can be explored through this genre of writing.

Autobiography vs. Biography vs. Memoir – Key Differences:

When it comes to writing about someone’s life, there are three main options: autobiography, biography, and memoir. While they all share similarities, there are some key differences between them.

Autobiography

An autobiography is a factual and historical account of one’s entire life written by the person themselves. It is usually written in the first person and covers the author’s life from beginning to end. Although autobiographies are often written by famous people, they can be written by anyone.

A biography is the story of someone’s life written by someone else. It is usually written in the third person and covers the subject’s life from birth to death.

A memoir is a nonfiction narrative in which the author shares their memories from a specific time period or reflects upon a string of themed occurrences throughout their life. Memoirs tend to focus on a particular aspect of the author’s life rather than their entire life story.

Comparison Chart

Here is a comparison chart highlighting the key differences between autobiography, biography, and memoir:

After examining the similarities and differences between autobiography, biography, and memoir, it is clear that each genre has its unique characteristics. While all three genres involve storytelling, they differ in their scope, focus, and style.

One notable difference between these genres is the level of objectivity. Biographies are often the most objective, as they are written by a third-party author who is not emotionally invested in the subject. In contrast, memoirs and autobiographies can be highly subjective, as they are written from the author’s perspective and often include their emotions and opinions.

Another difference is the audience. Autobiographies and biographies are usually intended for a broader audience, while memoirs are often more personal and may only appeal to a specific group of readers.

Overall, each genre has its strengths and weaknesses. It is up to the reader to decide which genre best suits their interests and preferences.

Also Read: What is the Fantasy Genre?

Related Posts

When did game of thrones books come out a timeline of release dates, when did twilight books come out a brief history of the twilight saga, when did harry potter books come out a timeline of the release dates, what is fantasy genre popular fantasy subgenres explained, hardcover vs paperback: which book format is better in 2023, paperbacks vs mass market paperbacks – how are they different.

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Type above and press Enter to search. Press Esc to cancel.

• Biography vs. Autobiography

How to Write an Autobiography: Autobiography vs Biography

Is academic writing complicated? There are multiple factors that should be taken into account while answering this question. For insights into academic writing assistance, exploring ivypanda reviews can offer valuable perspectives and experiences. First of all, it is indispensable to pay attention to the academic level, type of the project, and the topic. When seeking support for paper writing, especially for complex tasks like biography or autobiography writing, students often encounter confusion. Exploring  college paper writing service reviews can shed light on effective strategies for thriving in the realm of academic writing.

Dealing with the definitions and analyzing the peculiarities of the paper types are the first steps on the way to the achievement of the desired success. Take your time to read the effective writing guidelines and tips that can enhance your chances of creating an impeccable essay. Additionally, check out a few examples of similar essays to detect the most powerful writing tools that can contribute to the style, format, and structure of the text.

In general, autobiography and biography are the most common ways to share a life story. Even though the paper formats have a lot in common, there are numerous elements that keep them different. Keep reading an article to get more info about these two essay types and options that can make your custom biography or autobiography writing much more effective.

What Is an Autobiography? Definition and Key Peculiarities

What is an autobiography? From my personal experience, I can tell that there is no chance you succeed with the project unless you know its definition and key aspects. Therefore, before you even consider working on the autobiography story creation, you should make maximum effort to understand what the paper is about.

So, what is autobiography? It is a non-fiction paper that describes the life of the author. In other words, it is a self-written account of life and experience. In most instances, this type of project is created by famous and well-recognized people, especially the ones who have extraordinary ideas and concepts to share. The goals of autobiography writing can differ a lot, but in most instances, writers strive to inspire the audience, show their personal example, share some steps to success, or just make sure they will remain known even after quite some time.

What are the most prominent features of the autobiography to remember?

• It is always written in the first person.
• The paper is subjective.
• The described stint can vary a lot.
• The actions, thoughts, and ideas of the writer are explained.

Biography the Term and Its Specifications

Once you have discovered the basic peculiarities of the autobiography, you also need to analyze the key concepts related to biography. The term is used to signify a similar type of writing that also shares the life experience of a certain person. Once again, similar papers are known as a non-fiction recounts of somebody’s life. Personal stories, unique experiences, and tons of appealing details are the crucial characteristics of biography. However, one of the central ideas the writer should bear in mind is that a biography should not be written by the subject. Consequently, a third-person narration is typical for the paper.

Similar to autobiographies, biographies can emphasize either a specific period of time or describe the whole life experience, starting from birth and up to the present day.

Are there any specifications to mind while working on biography?

• It is written using third-person narration
• Chronological order is important
• A more formal style than an autobiography is preferred
• It takes more time and effort for the writer to come up with relevant information

What is the difference between autobiography and biography? Once you are aware of both terms and their specifications, you are ready to compare the options and single out their most important peculiarities.

At this point, it is inevitable to mention that working on a similar project can be an exceptionally daunting and overwhelming assignment. A lot of time, effort, and skills are inevitable for the achievement of the desired results. As most learners fail with the project, it is indispensable to mention an opportunity to get qualified assistance online and receive even the most challenging papers written at reasonable costs and within a short while. Read multiple reviews of the most reputable and appreciated custom paper writing services to avoid fake or scam platforms, but rather take maximum advantage of safe, effective, and helpful experiences.

Autobiography and Biography: Features They Have in Common

Once you are aware of the definitions, you are ready to immerse yourself in more detailed analysis and biography vs autobiography comparison. If you have never worked on a similar project, you should take a few minutes of your time to browse the web and find at least one example of each paper. Unique writing tips, formatting requirements, structure-related elements, and other options detected in the essays can advance your custom projects to an exceptionally new level.

What are the characteristics of autobiography that can also be applied to biographies? Check out some of the most important similarities of the paper types.

• Purpose of writing. The main idea of both autobiography and biography writing is to share life experiences and tell a story of personal life with all the good and bad moments, specifications, and lessons.
• Type of the project. An autobiography, as well as a biography, is considered to be a non-fiction text that is used to present the events, thoughts, and concepts that occurred during the life of the author or writer.
• Subjects. In the overwhelming majority of instances, famous or influential people are the ones who get their autobiographies and biographies done. Their achievements, soft and hard skills, experience, and unique ideas are mentioned in the papers.

Prominent Differences between Biography and Autobiography

Finally, it is indispensable to mention that apart from numerous similarities, there are multiple aspects that keep the writing styles unique and appealing. So, what is the difference between biography and autobiography?

• Author. When it comes to the autobiography, the author (as is clear from the name of the project) tells a personal story. The assignment is written in first-person narration. As for the biography, it is also aimed at sharing a story of somebody’s life, but the text is written in third-person narration, and the writer is never the subject of the discussion.
• Permissions. At this point, it is critical to mention that while a biography can be authorized and unauthorized, an autobiography is an option that should always be authorized.
• Objectivity. It is complicated to remain objective when you tell your own story, share your memories, and reiterate your emotions. Therefore, when it comes to biography and autobiography, the first one seems to be much more objective.

Biography, Autobiography, and Memoir: Are They the Same?

Analyzing the papers that tell the story of somebody’s life, it is inevitable to mention memoir, which is another way to share the details of personal experience. What is the most peculiar feature that keeps a memoir unique? In most instances, the stories are taken from the diary entities, which contributes to the authenticity of the essay.

What is the difference between autobiography and memoir? Check out a comparison chart to help you understand the specifications of all three paper types.

Biography and autobiography are non-fiction essays recounting a person's life. The structures and formats may appear similar, but the crucial distinction lies in the author. Autobiography is in the first person, sharing personal experiences, while biography narrates another person's life.

If you read the writing guidelines carefully, you understand that there are multiple aspects that make autobiography unique and extraordinary. First of all, it is written in first person narrative. Besides, it tells an exclusive story of personal life and experience. Finally, there are no biases or other options that can potentially prevent the writer from being dishonest with the readers.

When working on the autobiography, there are hardly any restrictions. It is inevitable to follow general academic writing tips and requirements, but the format, structure, and number of pages are quite flexible. In the overwhelming majority of instances, when it comes to autobiography, the number of pages can vary from 150 to 400 pages.

Related articles

How to Pay Someone to Take Your Online Class and not Get Caught

The Profession of Your Dream: What Kind of Job is Right for You?

Quetext Plagiarism Checker

The Real-Life Inspiration for Rose From Titanic

James Cameron had this amazing artist in mind when he created Kate Winslet's iconic character.

We may earn commission from links on this page, but we only recommend products we back.

Kate Winslet portrayed protagonist Rose DeWitt Bukater, the love interest of DiCaprio’s character. A young heiress and socialite forced into a loveless engagement with a wealthy man (played by Billy Zane), Rose becomes enamored with Jack, a poor, free-spirited artist who made his way onto the doomed vessel.

Even a quarter-century after the film’s release, one of the most common questions among views of Titanic remains: Was Rose based upon a real person? The answer, according to Cameron, is yes … and no.

Titanic: James Cameron's Illustrated Screenplay

There was no Rose DeWitt Bukater aboard the actual Titanic , nor was she based upon any specific passenger of the ill-fated ship. But the character was partially inspired by Beatrice Wood, an avant-garde artist and studio potter who captured Cameron’s imagination and directly inspired elements of the older version of Rose’s character, played by Gloria Stuart.

“Beatrice was proof that the attributes of Rose’s character that I thought might have been perceived as far-fetched were not,” Cameron wrote in Titanic: James Cameron's Illustrated Screenplay .

The Real-Life Rose

While Cameron was developing the film that would become Titanic , actor Bill Paxton ’s wife, Louise Newbury, lent him a copy of I Shock Myself , Wood’s autobiography. (Paxton, a regular collaborator with Cameron, had a supporting role in Titanic .) Cameron immediately saw similarities between Wood and the protagonist he imagined for Titanic .

“The first chapter describes almost literally the character I was already writing for Old Rose,” Cameron wrote in the Illustrated Screenplay . However, Cameron noted that Wood is “only a refraction of Beatrice, combined with many fictional elements,” including memories of his own two grandmothers, one of whom was named Rose.

I Shock Myself: Beatrice Wood, Career Woman of Art

Wood, born in 1893, was educated in Paris and New York, and ran away from a wealthy, domineering mother at age 17 to became an artist and ceramicist, according to the Illustrated Screenplay . Rose has a similar life story in Titanic , fleeing from her mother’s machinations for an arranged marriage in favor of a life on her own terms as an artist.

“I left home, a luxurious home, with $15, to be free,” Wood said . “And I went through a few years understanding the word poverty. But I was free. And freedom means a great deal to me.”

Wood became romantically involved with cubist painter Marcel Duchamp, founding and editing Dadist magazines with Duchamp and writer Henri-Pierre Roché. Wood partially inspired Roché to write the novel Jules et Jim (1953), about a love triangle between three Bohemians, which was adapted into the French New Wave film Jules and Jim (1962) by François Truffaut.

“Charming, Creative, and Devastatingly Funny”

Wood eventually settled in Ojai, California, near where Cameron lived while making Titanic. He spent a few weeks with her to learn more about her life and personality, which influenced the development of Rose’s character.

“When I met her she was charming, creative, and devastatingly funny. And her memory of her teenage years was extremely lucid,” Cameron wrote in the Illustrated Screenplay .

The artist’s studio in which Titanic viewers first see the elderly version, working over a pottery wheel, was directly inspired by Wood’s real-life home. Additionally, when Jack paints a nude portrait of Rose during one of Titanic ’s most famous scenes, Rose mentions the famous French painter Claude Monet , whom Wood had met and even watched paint in real life.

When Titanic was released in 1997, Cameron invited the 104-year-old Wood to the premiere, but she was unable to attend for health reasons. Instead, Cameron and Stuart personally visited her and gave her a video copy of the film.

Wood watched the movie, however, saying , “It was too late in life to be sad.” She died on March 12, 1998, at age 105.

Oh, and in case you’re wondering, DiCaprio’s Jack Dawson wasn’t based on any real individual. A real-life Titanic crew member named Joseph Dawson signed his name “J. Dawson,” but the director said he didn’t even know about that man while making the film. However, that hasn’t stopped his tombstone—which reads “J. Dawson”—from becoming a popular tourist destination among Titanic fans.

Colin McEvoy joined the Biography.com staff in 2023, and before that had spent 16 years as a journalist, writer, and communications professional. He is the author of two true crime books: Love Me or Else and Fatal Jealousy . He is also an avid film buff, reader, and lover of great stories.

Movies Based on True Stories

Meet the Real Gary Johnson Who Inspired ‘Hit Man’

Donald Trump Had an Influential Mentor in Roy Cohn

Inside Amy Winehouse’s Downward Spiral and Death

The Real-Life Hannibal Lecter

‘The Iron Claw:’ The Von Erich Family’s True Story

‘The Iron Claw’ Leaves Out a Von Erich Brother

Where Is Kevin Von Erich Today?

The True Story of Pop-Tarts and ‘Unfrosted’

Prince Andrew’s ‘Scoop’ Interview, Explained

Napoleon and Josephine Had a Stormy Relationship

The True Story of Bob Marley’s One Love Concert