Pieces of Advice for Writing an Autobiography: make it logical – choose one main idea and express it in a thesis statement to combine all memories to give your narrative a purpose do not be a bore – reveal some personal details (but maybe not your deepest, darkest secret!) and tell something that nobody but you can tell make it easy to read – include an introduction, main body paragraphs, and conclusion; do not hesitate to use a new paragraph to develop a new idea; and avoid using overcomplicated language

15 Questions to Help You Brainstorm for your Autobiography: Each slide will have 3 questions. Pick one or all to free- write on. These will help you come up with an authentic story for your autobiography. We’ll take 5-7 min. per slide.

5-7 minute free write: What famous quote can describe your life? Which 3 adjectives can be used to describe you as a person? Who has been a big influence so far in your life? Who has inspired you?

5-7 minute free write: What are your best and worst childhood memories? What is your family social and cultural background? What are your relationships with parents and other relatives like?

5-7 minute free write: What are your main achievements in life? What are your weaknesses that you would like to get rid of? What are your goals or dreams for the future?

5-7 minute free write: What places would you like to visit and why? What skills would you like to develop and why? What was the most memorable day in your life?

5-7 minute free write: What was the most important lesson you have ever learned in your life? What are the most important values in life, in your opinion? Which fault you would never forgive in others or yourself?