How to Actually Write a History or a Biography

For the past 2 years of writing History, particularly biography, I have noticed that there is no good source that actually describes what you have to do. All of the YouTube videos, and articles don’t describe the real way to write a Biography; so, I will tell you!

Step 1: The Importance of Citations

For your work to be scholarly and acceptable to the world of history, you need to cite your sources. They can all go under footnotes or you can make a separate document for the citations but it would be easier just to keep it all on one page.

Step 2: Where Do You Start?

From personal experience, I would start with a synopsis of your work. And if you’re not sure about a topic, pick one that no one has done before or do a subject that has been thoroughly covered but adds a twist to it. For example, instead of doing the life of Abraham Lincoln, maybe do, Abraham Lincoln and his Journey to the Presidency.

Make sure your topic is something new. Sadly, everything in the history or biography section had been covered but that’s where research comes into play!

Step 3. Research

For anything revolving around history, you need to make sure that you have copious amounts of research. You may need to go to your local library for books and free use of their search engines. Another big thing is utilizing the Internet. When it comes to writing a biography, the internet will be your best friend. You will most definitely use the Library of Congress and lots of books. If you have a finite amount of money or no access to a library, I would recommend Internet Archive for free books. This is (in my opinion) the best source for books.

Step 4. Take Your Time

When writing a Biography, the best way to know your subject is to take your time. You need to be an expert in your subject after the Biography is complete; to make sure of that, you need to take your time and be diligent in how you treat your subject.

Step 5. Reading About Your Subject

The best way to learn about your subject is to read about him/her. An extra thing to add is to understand the best sources for your subject. Think to yourself: What book gives the most information? This is not me saying to only use one source; however, you should look at the comprehensiveness of the book you are writing. If you are looking for a comprehensive study of your subject, look for the longest book you can find that also does a thorough treatment. Usually, you want to read this book aswell!

I hope this helps you on your adventure of writing a history Biography. If you have any questions, leave them in the comments. Thank You.