Autobiography vs. Biography - Learn the Differences
6 min read
Published on: Sep 4, 2021
Last updated on: Jan 3, 2023
6 min read
Published on: Sep 4, 2021
Last updated on: Jan 3, 2023
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There are two ways to write a true story about someone else. The first way is to write an autobiography. This is when you write about your personal life, but it must be based on real facts.
The second way is to write a biography. This is when you write about someone else's life. You must use real facts and interviews with the person who the biography is about.
A biography is more complete than an autobiography because it covers the author's whole life. An autobiography cannot do that because it only focuses on a certain time period and cannot cover the whole author's life.
They both are similar, but there are some differences between them. Thus, if you want to know more about them, start reading this blog and get a detailed guide on them.
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An autobiography is like a biography, but it is individually written by the person themselves. It is usually written in the first person, and there isn't usually a specific theme or message.
An autobiography is a book that tells the life story of its author. People usually write their autobiographies later in life. They describe what has happened until then and how it affects who they are now.
A good autobiography includes details such as:
Autobiographies are often more interesting than biographies because they give the reader access to your personal thoughts and feelings. An autobiography offers an inside look into someone's life, which can make for great reading material.
Examples:
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Biographies are a great way to get an accurate account of someone's life story. Writing one can be hard since you need their permission first before putting yourself out there as an author.
A good biography includes details such as:
A biography is written about someone other than the author. A third-person point of view is used to tell the story. The author can only guess their subject's thoughts and feelings based on journals and letters. They are not able to understand their subject's inner life.
It tells the story of their education, career, and personal relationships. Biographers use different sources to research a person's life, such as letters, diaries, and photographs. They also interview people who know the subject well.
Examples:
Both genres share key differences and similarities. But, it is important to know them well enough before writing any piece of content. Otherwise, your readers might get confused about what kind of material you are trying to convey.
The below tables show the differences and similarities between them in an easy-to-understand way.
| Differences | Description |
|---|---|
| Authorship | An autobiography is often a person’s life written by themselves, whereas a biography will usually come from someone else's perspective. |
| Point of View | An autobiography is usually written from the author's point of view. This means that they share their own experiences. On the other hand, a biography is written about someone else and is usually told in the third person. |
| Graduation of objectivity | A biography is more based on research than an autobiography. Writers of biography often gather information by interviewing the subject and looking at historical records. The content of an autobiography is usually based on the author’s memories, which can be biased. |
| Authorized vs. Unauthorized | A biography can be authorized or unauthorized. An autobiography is always authorized, meaning it is based on the person's own story. |
| Similarities | Description |
|---|---|
| Purpose | Biography and autobiography are meant to provide an account of someone’s life. |
| Non-Fiction | Biographies and autobios are both types of nonfiction writing that focus on an individual’s life. |
| Notable Subjects | People who have their lives written about in biographies or autobiographies are typically famous people who have done something important. These include athletes, politicians, and business leaders. |
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The below table compares three different types of nonfiction: autobiography, biography, and memoir. You'll find that they all have their own distinct differences from one another and share many similar qualities.
| Autobiography | Biography | Memoir |
|---|---|---|
| Focus on the entire life | Focus on the entire subject’s life of another person | Focus on a central incident |
| Chronological narrative | Chronological narrative | Not a Chronological narrative |
| First-person | Third-person | First-person |
| Subjective | Objective | Subjective |
| Famous people or historical figures | Famous people or historical figures | Anyone: famous or unknown person |
| Present the facts, and historical context | Present the facts, and historical context | Emotional truths |
Understanding the difference between biography, autobiography or memoir is important when it comes to storytelling. When writing a story, you must choose the tone that is best suited for your audience. You must decide how you want to portray your emotions to your readers.
However, if you need an expert writer’s help, consult CollegeEssay.org. We are here to help you in writing the biography, autobiography, college essay, etc.
So, why wait? Consult us now and get help from expert writers.
WRITTEN BY
Nova A. (Literature, Marketing)
As a Digital Content Strategist, Nova Allison has eight years of experience in writing both technical and scientific content. With a focus on developing online content plans that engage audiences, Nova strives to write pieces that are not only informative but captivating as well.
As a Digital Content Strategist, Nova Allison has eight years of experience in writing both technical and scientific content. With a focus on developing online content plans that engage audiences, Nova strives to write pieces that are not only informative but captivating as well.
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