How to Write a Professional Author / Illustrator Bio

Written by Colleen Riordan

Updated 2 years ago

Your professional bio is a brief description of your experience and expertise as an author or illustrator. It marries your background and skills with a splash of your personality.

A professional bio is used in news stories, your book cover, bookstore websites, conference pamphlets, and more. It allows readers to get to know the mind behind the work, while establishing your credibility as an artist or storyteller.

Your bio not a full description of your life story. (Save that for your memoirs!)

Instead, picture it as a highlight reel. It should spotlight your major literary and artistic accomplishments.

Disclaimer: Your website may also contain a more detailed history of your life. However, you'll want to include a brief professional author or illustrator bio for readers, the media, conferences, and the back flap of your book jacket.

Watch the video below to learn how to write your own professional bio.

Use the worksheet & examples linked below. Once you’ve answered the questions on your worksheet, start to assemble them into your bio.

DOWNLOAD: Writing Your Professional Bio Worksheet & Examples (with analysis)

Remember: Your professional bio doesn't need to contain every aspect of your life. Write the highlights instead of trying to fit in every chronological bit of experience or life event. Tell the reader about your relevant experiences, and then entertain them with a few of your most interesting personal tidbits. Be honest and authentic. (And be proud of your achievements, even the small ones. Everyone starts somewhere.)

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