how to write a research paper about a famous person

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How to Write a Compelling & Accurate Report about a Famous Person

Last Updated: April 14, 2023 References

Researching Your Topic

Writing your report, revising your report.

This article was co-authored by Emily Listmann, MA . Emily Listmann is a private tutor in San Carlos, California. She has worked as a Social Studies Teacher, Curriculum Coordinator, and an SAT Prep Teacher. She received her MA in Education from the Stanford Graduate School of Education in 2014. There are 8 references cited in this article, which can be found at the bottom of the page. This article has been viewed 251,158 times.

Are you stumped about how to write a report on a famous person? Many times, just starting a project like this is half the battle and once you begin all the pieces will fall into place. You will just need to do a bit of research, organize the information you learned into general categories, and then write about each of those categories. You can write a report about anyone or anything with just a bit of time, organization, and focus.

Things You Should Know

• Learn more about your subject by researching on the internet, checking out books at the library, and watching documentaries on the person.
• Find a focus to center your report around. Instead of writing about every detail of their life, choose something important that stands out to you, like their philanthropy efforts.
• Create an outline to get a rough idea of what your report should look like. Here, you can craft an intro, topic sentences for body paragraphs, and a conclusion.
• If you must choose someone from a specific time period, search for historical figures from that era and read about them until you find one that interests you.
• You could also choose someone based on a topic. For instance, if you’re interested in electricity, you could pick Nikola Tesla, Michael Faraday, or James Prescott Joule.

• For most reports, this preliminary search won't give you sources that you want to cite in your paper. Instead, it'll give you the basic information you'll need to do a more in-depth search for credible sources. [1] X Research source
• Try not to cite sources in your paper that are created by non-experts or are sources that can be edited by anyone. However, these can be great jumping off points for further research.

• When researching the subject, be careful to evaluate the credibility of your sources . If possible, use a variety of reliable sources to get the best information about the subject. [2] X Research source
• As a general rule, you want information that has been created by experts on the person you are researching. [3] X Research source

• Write the name of the source, then list the pertinent information as you come across it. Be sure to note the page number(s) too.
• There are different ways to take notes, so you'll have to find one that suits you.
• Some people like to take notes on paper and some people like to type them in a computer. Do whichever you prefer.

• For example, if you're researching Eleanor Roosevelt, you'll want to know when she was born, who her parents and her husband were, and why she's famous. However, you'll also want to focus on one aspect of her life, such as her work for women's rights.
• Alternatively, pick the aspect that you relate to most. For example, if you're drawn to Elvis Presley because of his in the military, write your report about his time in the military.

• Ask your teacher if they want citations and how they'd like you to include them. There are different citation styles, so it's important to understand what your teacher expects.
• Your teacher may also want a bibliography. This is a specifically formatted list of all of the books or websites you used. It is sometimes called "Works Cited" or "Sources Cited."
• Make a list of all of your sources as you do your research. It will make the bibliography easier to write at the end.
• 1 Follow the assignment guidelines. In some cases, your teacher might want you to answer a specific question about the historical figure, create a claim or thesis that guides your research, or even explain how you view the person. Read through the assignment guidelines several times and make sure that your research and report follows the expected format.

• For example, if your main point about The Beatles is that they were the most popular band in the 1960s, say that in the introduction. The point of every following paragraph will support that assertion.
• The outline can be created in any form you like. Some people like to start listing the points they want to make, while others prefer to create a structured outline that lays out the organization of the paper in detail.
• You can also list an outline for the conclusion but the conclusion usually just reiterates the main point brought up in the introduction.

• You also need to introduce your main point. This should be a topic sentence that goes toward the end of the introduction.
• Include when and where this person was born in the introduction. Consider waiting until the end of your report to discuss when they died.
• Don't address the person by their first name. It sounds very unprofessional. You can call them by their full name in your introduction, but after that, use their last name.

• For example, if the point of one paragraph is that The Beatles sold more albums than other artists in the 1960s, state that as the topic sentence.
• Don't mince words about your point. State it clearly and strongly.
• Each paragraph needs to have a topic sentence. If you think your paragraph doesn't have one, then you need to do some editing. [5] X Research source

• Each example you give to prove the topic sentence should be in a separate sentence. This means that your paragraphs should be around 4 to 5 sentences long.
• Giving specific examples will help you prove the paragraph's point. Instead of giving your opinion, back up your points with facts.
• How many paragraphs you need for your report will vary. In most cases, 5 paragraphs will be ideal: 1 for the introduction, 3 for the body, and 1 for the conclusion. [7] X Research source
• If your teacher gives you a set word count or page count that you need to meet, you may have to increase or decrease the number of body paragraphs.

• Begin the concluding paragraph by rephrasing the main point and examples. For instance, in an essay on The Beatles' popularity, you could state, "Clearly, The Beatles staggering record sales, huge fan base, and enduring legacy illustrate the bands lasting importance."
• In some cases, the conclusion may remind the reader of your attention grabbing sentence used in the intro.
• Don't introduce new information in your conclusion. If you are tempted to, find a place to include it in the body of the essay instead.

• If you think you need to explain your subject more, take the time to do it. You've spent a lot of time on your report already, so it's worth a little more time to make it the best it can be.
• After you're done writing your paper, read it out loud to catch mistakes. This will help you to catch areas of your writing that are awkward or confusing. [9] X Research source

• For example, did you use the right version of the word "there" in your paper? A spell check program may not catch it if you used the wrong version of a word with multiple spellings.

• Don't take it personally if you get a lot of feedback. They're only trying to help make your report the best it can be.
• Consider having a parent or a classmate read over your report. If you have a classmate do it, offer to read over their paper in exchange for them reading over yours.

Community Q&A

• Be careful to not start every sentence with the person's name. To avoid this, use he/she or move around the subject in the sentence. Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0

• Never plagiarize your work. It's not worth the short cut and it is dishonest. In fact, your teacher can put anything from your paper into a search engine and find the website you stole it from. Always rephrase sentences when using them in your paper and cite the source you got the information from. Thanks Helpful 3 Not Helpful 5

You Might Also Like

• ↑ https://owl.english.purdue.edu/owl/resource/588/02/
• ↑ http://www.pcc.edu/library/scripts/know-your-sources/index.html
• ↑ http://libguides.umflint.edu/research/citing
• ↑ https://owl.english.purdue.edu/engagement/2/1/29/
• ↑ https://owl.english.purdue.edu/owl/resource/724/02/
• ↑ https://owl.english.purdue.edu/owl/resource/685/05/
• ↑ http://writingcenter.unc.edu/handouts/editing-and-proofreading/
• ↑ https://gustavus.edu/writingcenter/handoutdocs/editing_proofreading.php

About This Article

To write a report on a famous person, search online and check out books from your library to learn about their life. Be sure to keep track of what sources you used and take notes. Once you have your information, write an introduction that gives some background about the famous person and explains why they were famous. Then write body paragraphs that provide details and facts about their life. You should include a topic sentence in each paragraph and wrap up your report with a conclusion that restates your main idea. To learn from our Education reviewer how to write topic sentences, keep reading! Did this summary help you? Yes No

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Famous People for Biography Topics

Fascinating Figures From History

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Are you looking for an interesting person to write about? You'll find that the more you are intrigued or inspired by your subject, the more time you'll give to this assignment.

This list may inspire you. Try to find a biography subject you enjoy reading about!

• Albert Einstein (scientist)
• Alexander Fleming (scientist)
• Alexander Graham Bell (inventor)
• Alexander the Great (leader)
• Amelia Earhart (aviation)
• Anne Frank (Holocaust)
• Benjamin Franklin (Founding Father)
• Betty Ford (inspirational)
• Carl Sagan (scientist)
• Charles Lindbergh (aviation)
• Clarence Birdseye (inventor)
• Eli Whitney (inventor)
• Elie Wiesel (Holocaust)
• Frank Lloyd Wright (architect)
• George Eastman (inventor)
• George Washington Carver (agricultural chemist)
• Henry Ford (industrialist)
• Isaac Newton (scientist)
• Jacques Cousteau (explorer)
• Jane Goodall (anthropologist)
• Johann Gutenberg (inventor)
• John Deere (inventor)
• John F. Kennedy (political leader)
• John James Audubon (nature)
• Jonas Salk (scientist, inventor)
• Karl Benz (inventor)
• Leonardo da Vinc i (scientist and artist)
• Lewis Braille (inventor)
• Margaret Mead (anthropologist)
• Marie Curie (physicist and chemist)
• Martin Luther King, Jr. (civil rights)
• Medgar Evers (civil rights)
• Mohandas Gandhi (political leader)
• Mother Teresa (Nobel Prize winner)
• Nelson Mandel a (political leader)
• Patrick Henry (Founding Father)
• Rachel Carson (conservationist)
• Robert Goddard (physicist and inventor)
• Rosa Parks (civil rights)
• Samuel Morse (inventor)
• Sandra Day O'Connor (political leader)
• Stephen Hawking (scientist)
• Susan B. Anthony (famous women)
• Thomas Edison (inventor)
• W.E.B. Dubois (civil rights)
• Wright Brothers (inventors)
• Winston Churchill (political leader)
• History's 15 Most Famous Inventors
• The Faces on Every U.S. Bill
• 100 Famous Women of the 20th Century
• Unique Ways to Celebrate Graduation
• 8 Printout Activities for Martin Luther King Day
• Biography of Samuel F.B. Morse, Inventor of the Telegraph
• Top 100 Women of History
• 18 Classic Poems of the Christmas Season
• A Timeline of Events in Electromagnetism
• September Calendar of Famous Inventions and Birthdays
• America's Most Influential Founding Fathers
• 24 Journal Prompts for Creative Writing in the Elementary Classroom
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Write a Compelling Report on a Famous Person

Writing a report on a famous person can be a fascinating journey into their life, achievements, and impact. Whether for education or personal interest, this task allows you to delve deep into the life of someone who has made a mark in history. In this guide, you'll learn how to select a suitable how to write a research paper on a famous person: taking an inside look at a well-known person’s life  subject, structure your report, and present your findings in a compelling way. By the end of this guide, you'll be equipped with the tools and knowledge to write an insightful and engaging report on any famous person.

Choosing the Right Famous Person for Your Report

The first step in writing a report is selecting the right famous person. Consider your interests, the relevance of the person to your course or audience, and the availability of resources. It's important to choose someone who intrigues you, as this will make the research and writing process more enjoyable. Additionally, ensure there is enough information available to construct a comprehensive report. This could include books, documentaries, interviews, and academic papers.

Researching Your Subject Thoroughly

Once you've chosen a famous person, it's time to dive into research. Start by gathering basic information and then delve deeper into specific aspects of their life and work. Use a variety of sources to get a well-rounded view, including biographies, articles, and documentaries. Take detailed notes and keep track of your sources for later reference. Remember, thorough research is the foundation of a great report.

Structuring Your Report Effectively

A well-structured report includes an introduction, body, and conclusion. In the introduction, provide background information on your chosen person and outline the focus of your report. The body should be divided into sections, each covering different aspects of their life or work. Finally, conclude by summarizing your findings and offering your own insights or reflections on the person's impact and legacy.

Writing a Captivating Introduction

Your introduction should hook the reader and set the tone for the rest of the report. Start with an interesting fact or a compelling question about the famous person. Provide some background information and state the purpose of your report. Make sure your introduction is clear, concise, and gives the reader a reason to continue reading.

Detailing Their Life and Achievements

In the body of your report, detail the life and achievements of the famous person. Organize the information chronologically or thematically, depending on what makes the most sense for your subject. Use specific examples and anecdotes to illustrate their character and impact. This section should be informative, engaging, and well-supported by your research.

Incorporating Quotes and Anecdotes

To add depth to your report, include quotes and anecdotes from or about the famous person. This can provide personal insights into their character and make your report more engaging. Be sure to attribute all quotes correctly and use them to support your analysis rather than as filler.

Concluding Your Report with Impact

Your conclusion should summarize the key points of your report and restate its purpose. This is also the place to offer your own thoughts on the person's legacy and influence. A strong conclusion leaves the reader with a clear understanding of the person's significance and your perspective on their life.

Dos and Don'ts of Writing a Report on a Famous Person

Do: Choose a person that genuinely interests you. Don't: Rely solely on one source of information. Do: Organize your report logically. Don't: Forget to cite your sources. Do: Include personal insights and analysis. Don't: Overwhelm the reader with unnecessary details.

Q: How do I choose a famous person to write about? A: Select someone who interests you and has enough information available to research. Consider the relevance to your audience or course. Q: Can I include my opinion in the report? A: Yes, personal insights and analysis are important, but they should be supported by research and presented objectively. Q: How important is citing sources in a report? A: Very important. Citing sources adds credibility to your report and avoids plagiarism.

Final Thoughts

Writing a report on a famous person is not just an academic exercise; it's an opportunity to explore and reflect on the lives of those who have shaped our world. By following these guidelines, you can create a report that is not only informative but also engaging and insightful. Remember to choose a subject that interests you, conduct thorough research, and present your findings in a structured and compelling manner. With these tips in mind, you're ready to write a report that truly does justice to your chosen famous person.

Useful Resources:  https://www.onrec.com/news/news-archive/how-to-write-a-career-goals-essay-an-ultimate-guide-for-students

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How to Write a Biographical Research Paper on a Person

Some personalities are so bright that they have become the subject matter for the research over the years. Perhaps, they introduced some groundbreaking ideas in the niche or made a significant impact on the development of the country, scientific field, or social life.

If it happens that you’ve got to write a research paper on a historical person for your class and you’ve never dealt with this paper type before, we are here to give you some guidance. We’ll explain to you what this academic work stands for and will share valuable tips that would enable you to organize the writing process in a more efficient way.

What Is a Biographical Essay - Let’s Start With the Basics

Before we delve into figuring out the steps to writing a biography paper, let’s get a fix on what this academic assignment represents. 

In simple words, this paper includes a detailed story of the person’s life, from birth till the last days. Writing a biography is an exciting experience as it allows the writer to discover interesting facts from the life of a famous personality. 

You won’t get bored when working on this assignment since you won’t be just figuring out the educational background, family relationship, love stories, and artistic or social activity of a person. You’ll be covering different aspects of the individual’s life through the perspective of their experience.

Writing a Biography Essay - What Should It Include

The most prominent peculiarity of the biography report is that it covers all life stages of the person’s life. It is supposed to highlight different aspects of the perosanily, their experience, and background. Thus, your paper might look like this:

• title page;
• introduction;
• conclusion ;
• cited sources.

You might be wondering how to organize information within these parts of the paper, so we are rushing to address the questions you might have.

How to Start a Research Paper on a Person

Whether you are crafting an essay or research paper, you’ve got to open your work somehow. If you are clueless about how to start a biography about someone else, here is the best thing you can do.

Keep in mind that an introduction is a place where you are supposed to come clean about the subject and create a sort of a hook that would keep the reader excited and motivated to move further through your paper.

How to Write a Biography Essay Body

Your research paper body will have several sections depending on what you would like to highlight and what events were prominent in the person’s life. Do not try to idealize the person and make use of true proven facts.

Mind that the first chapter is always devoted to the early life of the individual and should tell about the place and time of birth, family, education, and some life-changing events that happened to the person during the early years of their life. You can add sub-headings to organize the information in a more compelling way.

The next chapters will depend on the individual and their life position, events, and aspects of life. You might devote a section to love stories, marriage, or anything personal-related. Then another section would be about the activities that made the person famous. Some students even make a chapter where they describe the individual’s values, beliefs, and character traits.

The Closing Biographical Paragraph

With all the information at hand, it’s time to evaluate the legacy the person left in world history or the impact they made on a specific industry.

Thus, you should avoid rephrasing the paragraphs and insights from the body of your paper. You’d better express why you believe that was a prominent personality instead. Consider whether the work of the individual is significant and if it’s relevant in the modern world.

Handy Tips for Composing a Brilliant Biographical Paper

In fact, writing a biography is not that complicated when you know how to organize the process. So, we are here to share some valuable tips on how to write a research paper on a person that would enable you to tackle this academic assignment with ease.

Pick the Object of Research Wisely

The challenge of selecting the person to write about lies in the several factors you’ve got to consider:

• the person should be famous enough so you could find enough relevant information;
• the person should not be over-studied, especially during your classes to keep the sparkle of curiosity smoldering;
• the person should ignite a desire to find out more about their persona.

If you happen to make these pieces fit together perfectly, then you will enjoy working on your paper and will have excellent results.

Organize Information Before Writing

It’s needless to say that you’ve got to carry research and collect data about the person. Willy-nilly, you’ll do that anyway. But what most students forget to do is to organize the information for easier access.

Make use of any techniques that work for you:

• create a digital mind map;
• print the materials and use colorful labels;
• use colorful markers to highlight different types of data;
• create different files for various aspects of the person's life.

Anything that works for you will do. 

An Outline Is a Must

An outline is your shortcut to crafting a well-organized paper with less hassle. It will ensure you know the direction of every single section and do not mix things up. 

In this way, you will have a neatly structured bibliography that is clear, easy to comprehend, and informative.

Get Help if You Can’t Make It

Are you too busy with other assignments, or are you not in the mood for doing research? Then you should get help from our service to maintain your performance while budgeting zero time in this project. Just place an order, provide us with the paper details, and get your biography on time.

Famous Person Project - Freshman English: Home

Biography project resources.

• 100 People Who Changed the World This is a list of 100 people who have changed the world with links to information about each person.
• The 100 Greatest Heroes This list is from the book The 100 Greatest Heroes: Inspiring Profiles of One Hundred Men and Women Who Changed the World (Kensington Publishing Corp./Citadel Press: New York City, 2003), written by H. Paul Jeffers

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How to Cite Sources

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Unsure of the correct format for citing your source? Try the How Do I Cite A... link! Or, take a look at the MLA Basic Ctiation Structures document below. 

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In MLA7, you must list the publication medium (print or web) after the publication information. MLA7 abbreviates all months except for May, June and July.  Book:  Last, First M.  Title  City: Publisher, Year Published. Medium  Journal:  Last, First M. "Article."  Title  Series Volume.Issue (Year Published): Page(s). Medium  Magazine:  Last, First M. "Article"  Title  Date Month Year Published: Page(s). Medium  Newspaper:  Last, First M. "Article"  Title  [City] Date Month Year Published, Edition, Section: Page(s). Medium. 

Famous Person Project

THE FIRST STEP…

The first thing that you need to do in order to complete a successful research project is the RESEARCH . We will discuss how to take notes in class. The following headings and questions can help you organize your note cards.*the topics below are only a guide. They may work with your person, but they may not, you might not be able to find some of the information, and that is okay.

QUOTE:  Somewhere in your essay you must include a quote from the famous person and tell its significance.

· When was your person born?

· Where was your person born?

· Where did your person grow up?

· Did anything eventful occur during your person’s childhood?

· Did your person go to school?

· What type of home life did your person have?

· Who were your person’s parents?

· Did your person grow up with his/her parents?

· Did your person have any brothers or sisters?

· Are there any other family members that influenced your person?

· What type of relationship did your person have with his/her family?

· Was your person married? If yes, did the spouse play a major role in their life?

ACCOMPLISHMENTS

· Did your person have any particular strength?

· Did your person do anything that changed the course of history or influenced it in any way?

· Did your person win any awards?

· Did your person do anything great that other people talked about? For example, write a book?

PROBLEMS / OBSTACLES

· Did your person face any personal challenges during his/her life?

· How did your person respond to these problems?

· Was anyone else involved in these issues?

· Was there an end to the problems that your person faced?

END OF LIFE

· How and when did this person die?

OTHER THINGS TO CONSIDER

· In what ways was the life remarkable, despicable, and admirable?

· What human qualities were most influential in shaping the way this person lived and influenced his or her times?

· Which quality or trait proved most troubling and difficult?

· Which quality or trait was most beneficial?

· Did this person make any major mistakes or bad decisions? If so, what were they?

· Many people act out of a "code" or a set of beliefs which dictate choices. It may be religion or politics or a personal philosophy. To what extent did your person act by a code or act independently of any set of beliefs? Were there times when the code was challenged and impossible to follow? Or, people act in such a way that goes against a set of beliefs- in what way did your person act that went against what we consider to be moral and just?

· What do you think it means to be a hero? Was your person a "hero?" Why? Why not? How is a hero different from a celebrity? Or was your person someone that history looks down upon. Why and do you think all people feel the same as you?

REQUIRED ASSIGNMENTS

• Required Assignment #1: FAMOUS PERSON RESEARCH PAPER
• Required Assignment #2: OUTLINE
• Presentation for your famous person #3: SPEECH
• Biography in Context (Gale) Biography in Context delivers outstanding research support with 600,000+ biographical entries — on more than 528,000 individuals — spanning history and geography.

Notes due: tba

Portrait due:  tba

Famous Person Report due:  tba

Outline due:  tba

Final Project due :  tba

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How to Write a Paper on a Historically Significant Person

Researching for a paper is an excellent way to learn because it trains you to gather information, interpret it, and persuasively present an informed opinion. The process teaches you a great deal, but it also equips you to contribute to ongoing discussions on a given topic.

Here’s the basic process of writing a paper on a historically significant person, either for a class or for your own personal research:

1. Select a person

Unless you’ve been assigned a person to research, you’re most likely going to begin the process from a position of interest. The person whose life and thought you want to explore will be interesting to you for one reason or another (or maybe for many reasons). But it’s important to discover the particular lens through which you want to view this person. Do you want to see how they fit within their historical context? Do you want to look back at them through the filter of contemporary debates? Do you want to focus on the way they saw the world and how that influenced those who came after them?

Having a lens in mind will help you be aware of the perspective you bring to your studies by default, because the reality is that no one approaches research in a vacuum. We all have particular ways of viewing the world, and attending to those—and being intentional about them—can help us to be intellectually honest and gracious in our assessment of historical figures.

Remember, you don’t have to be an expert on the person you want to research before you begin—that’s what the research process will accomplish. You should, however, have an interest in this person’s life. You can consult your local librarian to help you refine your topic and write a better paper.

If you are writing on a person from the Bible, then check out Logos Workflows . Workflows will help you find biblical passages related to the person’s life, review the key events the person was involved in, look for mentions of the person elsewhere in Scripture, and evaluate the person’s character qualities to discern valuable lessons from that person’s life.

2. Do your research

With a person selected, it’s time to find the resources you’re going to dig into. You may find that one resource offers the best discussion of your chosen individual, but you can’t stop there. Researching well means considering opinions that differ from each other (and probably from your own). It’s in the conversation that emerges from engaging with multiple perspectives that real insight and understanding emerge.

There are four steps to researching a paper: conducting a literature review to build your bibliography, consulting standard resources, consulting peer-reviewed journals, and consulting primary sources.

A. Conduct a literature review and build your bibliography

The process of conducting a literature review and building a bibliography is an iterative process. It’s not a one-time step; rather, it’s a step you’ll return to over and over again as you move through your research.

Essentially, in this step, you’re discovering what resources exist and cataloging them. As you begin to read the resources you discover, you’ll likely find references to other works that you’ll then want to read.

B. Consult standard sources

If the person you want to research was part of church history, then you can find useful information in encyclopedias , commentaries , theological dictionaries , concordances , and other theological reference works . The biggest help these resources will offer you at this stage is their bibliographies. Be sure to check the cross-references often.

C. Consult peer-reviewed journals

Even if you’re focusing in on a particular text by the person you’ve selected (like Dionysius the Pseudo-Areopagite’s The Divine Names or Augustine’s Confessions ), you need to see what your contemporaries have to say about it in order to situate your research in its context. This means consulting peer-reviewed journals. As you read, you’ll discover where scholars agree and disagree, and how the study of that person has advanced over time.

D. Consult primary sources

After completing all the previous steps, you will likely have become acquainted with the most important books for your chosen individual, both primary and secondary. Primary sources are first-hand historical documents, whereas secondary sources are books and articles that analyze or interpret the primary sources. Reading primary sources, particularly those written by the person you’re researching, is especially important.

3. Construct an outline

This step is incredibly important, but is often overlooked. It’s time to refine your angle of approach based on your research, then arrange your notes and research materials into a clear outline that will guide you as you craft a convincing and coherent argument.

4. Draft your paper

You are now ready to draft your paper. Your initial focus is to expand your outline into paragraph form as straightforwardly as possible. While your outline will be essential as you draft, don’t feel you need to stick to it absolutely. You may discover as you write that a different structure or organization will better advance your argument. Make use of relevant quotations from your research to clarify your points or add support for your arguments.

Logos Notes Tool

Use the Notes Tool in Logos to take notes as you research. Capture your thoughts on any passage, and they’ll stick to the sections you’re studying. Pull related research together into notebooks, and even share them with friends. Then, you can easily find powerful quotes to add to your paper. Learn more .

5. Revise and refine

Notice the word “draft” in the previous step. That word is intentionally selected because, arguably, the most important part of the writing process is in your revisions. Drafting gets the ball rolling, but revising is where you refine and revise your previous drafts, ensuring your argument is clear and forceful.

Before you send your final paper, you’ll want to make sure you’re writing clearly and using the right style. If you are in school, follow the rules of your academic handbook. If not, adopt a common style guide like APA, Turabian, or the  SBL Handbook of Style,  and consult online guides like  EasyBib  or the  Chicago Manual of Style  for help. You can also find helpful writing advice in  The Elements of Style .

While this structure is helpful, you may find that some variation of it works better for you. Go with what works because, at the end of the day, a thoroughly-researched and well-written paper is what you’re after.

Further resources

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How To Write A Research Paper

Step-By-Step Tutorial With Examples + FREE Template

By: Derek Jansen (MBA) | Expert Reviewer: Dr Eunice Rautenbach | March 2024

For many students, crafting a strong research paper from scratch can feel like a daunting task – and rightly so! In this post, we’ll unpack what a research paper is, what it needs to do , and how to write one – in three easy steps. 🙂 

Overview: Writing A Research Paper

What (exactly) is a research paper.

• How to write a research paper
• Stage 1 : Topic & literature search
• Stage 2 : Structure & outline
• Stage 3 : Iterative writing
• Key takeaways

Let’s start by asking the most important question, “ What is a research paper? ”.

Simply put, a research paper is a scholarly written work where the writer (that’s you!) answers a specific question (this is called a research question ) through evidence-based arguments . Evidence-based is the keyword here. In other words, a research paper is different from an essay or other writing assignments that draw from the writer’s personal opinions or experiences. With a research paper, it’s all about building your arguments based on evidence (we’ll talk more about that evidence a little later).

Now, it’s worth noting that there are many different types of research papers , including analytical papers (the type I just described), argumentative papers, and interpretative papers. Here, we’ll focus on analytical papers , as these are some of the most common – but if you’re keen to learn about other types of research papers, be sure to check out the rest of the blog .

With that basic foundation laid, let’s get down to business and look at how to write a research paper .

Overview: The 3-Stage Process

While there are, of course, many potential approaches you can take to write a research paper, there are typically three stages to the writing process. So, in this tutorial, we’ll present a straightforward three-step process that we use when working with students at Grad Coach.

These three steps are:

• Finding a research topic and reviewing the existing literature
• Developing a provisional structure and outline for your paper, and
• Writing up your initial draft and then refining it iteratively

Let’s dig into each of these.

Need a helping hand?

Step 1: Find a topic and review the literature

As we mentioned earlier, in a research paper, you, as the researcher, will try to answer a question . More specifically, that’s called a research question , and it sets the direction of your entire paper. What’s important to understand though is that you’ll need to answer that research question with the help of high-quality sources – for example, journal articles, government reports, case studies, and so on. We’ll circle back to this in a minute.

The first stage of the research process is deciding on what your research question will be and then reviewing the existing literature (in other words, past studies and papers) to see what they say about that specific research question. In some cases, your professor may provide you with a predetermined research question (or set of questions). However, in many cases, you’ll need to find your own research question within a certain topic area.

Finding a strong research question hinges on identifying a meaningful research gap – in other words, an area that’s lacking in existing research. There’s a lot to unpack here, so if you wanna learn more, check out the plain-language explainer video below.

Once you’ve figured out which question (or questions) you’ll attempt to answer in your research paper, you’ll need to do a deep dive into the existing literature – this is called a “ literature search ”. Again, there are many ways to go about this, but your most likely starting point will be Google Scholar .

If you’re new to Google Scholar, think of it as Google for the academic world. You can start by simply entering a few different keywords that are relevant to your research question and it will then present a host of articles for you to review. What you want to pay close attention to here is the number of citations for each paper – the more citations a paper has, the more credible it is (generally speaking – there are some exceptions, of course).

Ideally, what you’re looking for are well-cited papers that are highly relevant to your topic. That said, keep in mind that citations are a cumulative metric , so older papers will often have more citations than newer papers – just because they’ve been around for longer. So, don’t fixate on this metric in isolation – relevance and recency are also very important.

Beyond Google Scholar, you’ll also definitely want to check out academic databases and aggregators such as Science Direct, PubMed, JStor and so on. These will often overlap with the results that you find in Google Scholar, but they can also reveal some hidden gems – so, be sure to check them out.

Once you’ve worked your way through all the literature, you’ll want to catalogue all this information in some sort of spreadsheet so that you can easily recall who said what, when and within what context. If you’d like, we’ve got a free literature spreadsheet that helps you do exactly that.

Step 2: Develop a structure and outline

With your research question pinned down and your literature digested and catalogued, it’s time to move on to planning your actual research paper .

It might sound obvious, but it’s really important to have some sort of rough outline in place before you start writing your paper. So often, we see students eagerly rushing into the writing phase, only to land up with a disjointed research paper that rambles on in multiple

Now, the secret here is to not get caught up in the fine details . Realistically, all you need at this stage is a bullet-point list that describes (in broad strokes) what you’ll discuss and in what order. It’s also useful to remember that you’re not glued to this outline – in all likelihood, you’ll chop and change some sections once you start writing, and that’s perfectly okay. What’s important is that you have some sort of roadmap in place from the start.

At this stage you might be wondering, “ But how should I structure my research paper? ”. Well, there’s no one-size-fits-all solution here, but in general, a research paper will consist of a few relatively standardised components:

• Introduction
• Literature review
• Methodology

Let’s take a look at each of these.

First up is the introduction section . As the name suggests, the purpose of the introduction is to set the scene for your research paper. There are usually (at least) four ingredients that go into this section – these are the background to the topic, the research problem and resultant research question , and the justification or rationale. If you’re interested, the video below unpacks the introduction section in more detail. 

The next section of your research paper will typically be your literature review . Remember all that literature you worked through earlier? Well, this is where you’ll present your interpretation of all that content . You’ll do this by writing about recent trends, developments, and arguments within the literature – but more specifically, those that are relevant to your research question . The literature review can oftentimes seem a little daunting, even to seasoned researchers, so be sure to check out our extensive collection of literature review content here .

With the introduction and lit review out of the way, the next section of your paper is the research methodology . In a nutshell, the methodology section should describe to your reader what you did (beyond just reviewing the existing literature) to answer your research question. For example, what data did you collect, how did you collect that data, how did you analyse that data and so on? For each choice, you’ll also need to justify why you chose to do it that way, and what the strengths and weaknesses of your approach were.

Now, it’s worth mentioning that for some research papers, this aspect of the project may be a lot simpler . For example, you may only need to draw on secondary sources (in other words, existing data sets). In some cases, you may just be asked to draw your conclusions from the literature search itself (in other words, there may be no data analysis at all). But, if you are required to collect and analyse data, you’ll need to pay a lot of attention to the methodology section. The video below provides an example of what the methodology section might look like.

By this stage of your paper, you will have explained what your research question is, what the existing literature has to say about that question, and how you analysed additional data to try to answer your question. So, the natural next step is to present your analysis of that data . This section is usually called the “results” or “analysis” section and this is where you’ll showcase your findings.

Depending on your school’s requirements, you may need to present and interpret the data in one section – or you might split the presentation and the interpretation into two sections. In the latter case, your “results” section will just describe the data, and the “discussion” is where you’ll interpret that data and explicitly link your analysis back to your research question. If you’re not sure which approach to take, check in with your professor or take a look at past papers to see what the norms are for your programme.

Alright – once you’ve presented and discussed your results, it’s time to wrap it up . This usually takes the form of the “ conclusion ” section. In the conclusion, you’ll need to highlight the key takeaways from your study and close the loop by explicitly answering your research question. Again, the exact requirements here will vary depending on your programme (and you may not even need a conclusion section at all) – so be sure to check with your professor if you’re unsure.

Step 3: Write and refine

Finally, it’s time to get writing. All too often though, students hit a brick wall right about here… So, how do you avoid this happening to you?

Well, there’s a lot to be said when it comes to writing a research paper (or any sort of academic piece), but we’ll share three practical tips to help you get started.

First and foremost , it’s essential to approach your writing as an iterative process. In other words, you need to start with a really messy first draft and then polish it over multiple rounds of editing. Don’t waste your time trying to write a perfect research paper in one go. Instead, take the pressure off yourself by adopting an iterative approach.

Secondly , it’s important to always lean towards critical writing , rather than descriptive writing. What does this mean? Well, at the simplest level, descriptive writing focuses on the “ what ”, while critical writing digs into the “ so what ” – in other words, the implications . If you’re not familiar with these two types of writing, don’t worry! You can find a plain-language explanation here.

Last but not least, you’ll need to get your referencing right. Specifically, you’ll need to provide credible, correctly formatted citations for the statements you make. We see students making referencing mistakes all the time and it costs them dearly. The good news is that you can easily avoid this by using a simple reference manager . If you don’t have one, check out our video about Mendeley, an easy (and free) reference management tool that you can start using today.

Recap: Key Takeaways

We’ve covered a lot of ground here. To recap, the three steps to writing a high-quality research paper are:

• To choose a research question and review the literature
• To plan your paper structure and draft an outline
• To take an iterative approach to writing, focusing on critical writing and strong referencing

Remember, this is just a b ig-picture overview of the research paper development process and there’s a lot more nuance to unpack. So, be sure to grab a copy of our free research paper template to learn more about how to write a research paper.

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How to Write a Biography of a Famous Person

Writing a biography of a famous person is a challenging yet rewarding task. It requires extensive research, careful attention to detail, and the ability to craft a compelling narrative that captures the essence of the person’s life and achievements. In this article, we will explore how to write a biography of a famous person, as well as provide you with 9 interesting facts about the process.

1. Choose your subject carefully: The first step in writing a biography of a famous person is to choose your subject carefully. Consider selecting someone who has had a significant impact on their field, whether it be in politics, entertainment, sports, or science. It’s important to choose someone who you find interesting and compelling, as you will be spending a significant amount of time researching and writing about them.

2. Conduct thorough research: Once you have chosen your subject, it’s time to start conducting research. This may involve reading books, articles, and interviews about the person, as well as watching documentaries and listening to speeches or podcasts. Make sure to take detailed notes and keep track of your sources, as you will need to reference them in your biography.

3. Outline the person’s life: Before you start writing, it’s helpful to create an outline of the person’s life. This can help you organize your thoughts and ensure that you cover all the important events and milestones in their life. Start with their early life and background, then move on to their career and achievements, and finally, discuss their impact and legacy.

4. Tell a compelling story: A biography is more than just a list of facts and events – it’s a narrative that tells the story of a person’s life. Try to weave together the key events and moments in the person’s life in a way that is engaging and compelling for the reader. Use descriptive language and vivid details to bring the person’s story to life.

5. Include interesting facts and anecdotes: One way to make your biography more engaging is to include interesting facts and anecdotes about the person. These can help to humanize the person and provide insights into their personality and character. Look for unique or little-known facts that can help to add depth and complexity to your portrait of the person.

6. Be objective and balanced: When writing a biography of a famous person, it’s important to be objective and balanced in your portrayal of them. Avoid falling into the trap of hero-worship or demonization, and strive to present a fair and accurate picture of the person, warts and all. Remember that every person is a complex and multi-dimensional individual, and try to capture this complexity in your writing.

7. Consider the person’s impact: In addition to detailing the person’s life and achievements, it’s important to consider their impact on the world around them. How did they change their field or influence the people around them? What is their lasting legacy? These are important questions to consider as you write your biography.

8. Edit and revise: Once you have completed your first draft, it’s time to edit and revise your work. Look for any errors in grammar, spelling, or punctuation, and make sure that your writing is clear and concise. Consider asking a friend or colleague to read your biography and provide feedback, as fresh eyes can often catch things that you may have missed.

9. Seek feedback: Finally, don’t be afraid to seek feedback from others on your biography. Show your work to friends, family, or colleagues and ask for their honest opinions. Constructive criticism can help you improve your writing and make your biography more engaging and compelling for readers.

Now that we have covered the basics of how to write a biography of a famous person, let’s delve into 9 interesting facts about the process:

1. Research is key: Writing a biography requires extensive research to ensure that you have a thorough understanding of the person’s life and achievements.

2. Choose your sources carefully: Make sure to use reputable sources when conducting your research, such as books, articles, and interviews with people who knew the person.

3. Be prepared to spend a lot of time on your biography: Writing a biography is a time-consuming process that requires patience and dedication.

4. Don’t be afraid to get creative: While it’s important to stick to the facts when writing a biography, don’t be afraid to get creative with your writing style and approach.

5. Consider the person’s legacy: When writing a biography, it’s important to consider the person’s lasting legacy and impact on the world.

6. Be prepared for criticism: Writing a biography can be a challenging and sometimes controversial endeavor, so be prepared for criticism from readers and reviewers.

7. Stay organized: Keep detailed notes and records of your research to ensure that you have all the information you need to write your biography.

8. Get feedback: Show your work to others and ask for their feedback to help you improve your writing and make your biography more engaging.

9. Enjoy the process: Writing a biography can be a rewarding and fulfilling experience, so try to enjoy the process and learn as much as you can about the person you are writing about.

Now that we have covered 9 interesting facts about how to write a biography of a famous person, let’s move on to 17 common questions that you may have about the process:

1. How do I choose a subject for my biography?

– When choosing a subject for your biography, consider selecting someone who has had a significant impact on their field and who you find interesting and compelling.

2. How do I conduct research for my biography?

– Research for your biography may involve reading books, articles, and interviews about the person, as well as watching documentaries and listening to speeches or podcasts.

3. How do I structure my biography?

– Create an outline of the person’s life, starting with their early years and background, then moving on to their career and achievements, and finally discussing their impact and legacy.

4. How do I make my biography engaging?

– Use descriptive language, vivid details, and interesting facts and anecdotes to make your biography more engaging and compelling for readers.

5. How do I remain objective when writing a biography?

– Strive to be objective and balanced in your portrayal of the person, avoiding hero-worship or demonization and presenting a fair and accurate picture of the person.

6. How do I edit and revise my biography?

– Look for errors in grammar, spelling, and punctuation, and make sure that your writing is clear and concise. Consider seeking feedback from others to help improve your work.

7. How do I deal with criticism of my biography?

– Be prepared for criticism from readers and reviewers, and use it as an opportunity to learn and improve your writing.

8. How do I capture the person’s personality in my biography?

– Use interesting facts, anecdotes, and insights to help capture the person’s personality and character in your writing.

9. How do I ensure that my biography is accurate?

– Use reputable sources and fact-check your work to ensure that your biography is accurate and well-researched.

10. How do I make my biography stand out from others?

– Use a unique writing style, interesting facts, and a compelling narrative to make your biography stand out and capture the reader’s attention.

11. How do I handle sensitive or controversial topics in my biography?

– Approach sensitive or controversial topics with sensitivity and objectivity, and strive to present a fair and balanced view of the person and their life.

12. How do I structure my research for my biography?

– Keep detailed notes and records of your research to ensure that you have all the information you need to write your biography.

13. How do I ensure that my biography is well-written?

– Use descriptive language, vivid details, and engaging storytelling techniques to make your biography well-written and engaging for readers.

14. How do I choose which events to include in my biography?

– Select events that are significant and relevant to the person’s life and achievements, and that help to tell a compelling story about them.

15. How do I make my biography relevant to today’s readers?

– Consider the person’s impact and legacy, and how their life and achievements continue to resonate with readers today.

16. How do I structure my biography to keep readers engaged?

– Use a clear and logical structure, with engaging storytelling techniques and interesting facts and anecdotes to keep readers engaged throughout your biography.

17. How do I conclude my biography?

– Summarize the person’s life and achievements, their impact and legacy, and leave readers with a lasting impression of the person and their contribution to the world.

In conclusion, writing a biography of a famous person is a challenging yet rewarding task that requires careful research, attention to detail, and a compelling narrative. By following the tips outlined in this article, as well as considering the interesting facts and common questions provided, you can create a biography that captures the essence of the person’s life and achievements in a compelling and engaging way. Remember to stay objective and balanced in your portrayal of the person, seek feedback from others, and enjoy the process of writing and learning about the person you are writing about. Happy writing!

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Essays on Famous Person

What makes a good famous person essay topics.

Choosing a topic for a famous person essay can be challenging, especially when there are so many options to consider. However, there are certain qualities that make for a good essay topic. When brainstorming and choosing a topic, it is important to consider the significance of the person, the impact they have had on society, and the potential for an interesting and engaging essay. A good essay topic should also be unique and stand out from the crowd, offering a fresh perspective and sparking the reader's interest.

When brainstorming essay topics, it can be helpful to consider the following questions: What makes this person unique? What impact have they had on the world? What aspects of their life or work are particularly interesting or controversial? By considering these factors, you can narrow down your options and choose a topic that is both relevant and compelling.

A good essay topic should also be well-researched, with plenty of information available to support your arguments and provide depth to your analysis. It should be something that you are passionate about and genuinely interested in exploring further. Finally, a good essay topic should offer the opportunity to present new ideas and perspectives, rather than simply rehashing old information.

Best Famous Person Essay Topics

When it comes to choosing a famous person essay topic, the possibilities are endless. However, some topics stand out as particularly interesting and thought-provoking. Here are some unique and creative famous person essay topics to consider:

• The enigmatic life of Frida Kahlo
• The impact of Nikola Tesla on modern technology
• The enduring legacy of Maya Angelou
• The controversial career of Pablo Picasso
• The untold story of Amelia Earhart
• The revolutionary work of Marie Curie
• The enduring influence of Leonardo da Vinci
• The cultural impact of Audrey Hepburn
• The trailblazing career of Coco Chanel
• The innovative mind of Steve Jobs
• The enduring appeal of Marilyn Monroe
• The legacy of Mahatma Gandhi
• The enigmatic life of Vincent van Gogh
• The impact of Martin Luther King Jr. on civil rights
• The controversial career of Salvador Dali
• The enduring legacy of Princess Diana
• The trailblazing career of Billie Holiday
• The untold story of Rosa Parks
• The innovative mind of Albert Einstein
• The enduring influence of Queen Elizabeth II

These essay topics offer the opportunity to explore the lives and legacies of some of the most influential and fascinating figures in history, providing ample material for a compelling and engaging essay.

Famous Person essay topics Prompts

If you're looking for some creative prompts to inspire your famous person essay, here are five ideas to consider:

• Imagine you are having a conversation with the famous person you have chosen to write about. What questions would you ask them and why?
• Choose a specific aspect of the person's life or work and explore how it has influenced modern society.
• Write a fictional biography of the famous person, highlighting key moments and events in their life.
• Create a timeline of the person's life, highlighting significant milestones and achievements.
• Imagine the famous person in a modern-day context. How would they adapt to the world today and what impact would they have?

These prompts offer a creative and engaging way to approach your famous person essay, encouraging you to think outside the box and explore new ideas and perspectives. By choosing a unique and thought-provoking essay topic, you can create an engaging and memorable piece of writing that stands out from the crowd.

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Biography Online

List of Top 100 Famous People

A list of famous people, chosen mainly from the nineteenth, twentieth or twenty-first centuries. This list includes famous actors, politicians, entrepreneurs, writers, artists and humanitarians.

• Marilyn Monroe (1926 – 1962) American actress, singer, model
• Abraham Lincoln (1809 – 1865) US President during American civil war
• Nelson Mandela (1918 – 2013)  South African President anti-apartheid campaigner
• Queen Elizabeth II (1926 – 2022) British monarch since 1954
• John F. Kennedy (1917 – 1963) US President 1961 – 1963
• Martin Luther King (1929 – 1968)  American civil rights campaigner
• Winston Churchill (1874 –  1965 ) British Prime Minister during WWII
• Donald Trump (1946 – ) Businessman, US President.
• Bill Gates (1955 – ) American businessman, founder of Microsoft
• Muhammad Ali (1942 – 2016) American Boxer and civil rights campaigner
• Mahatma Gandhi (1869 – 1948) Leader of Indian independence movement
• Mother Teresa (1910 – 1997) Macedonian Catholic missionary nun
• Christopher Columbus (1451 – 1506) Italian explorer
• Charles Darwin (1809 – 1882) British scientist, theory of evolution
• Elvis Presley (1935 – 1977) American musician
• Albert Einstein (1879 – 1955) German scientist, theory of relativity
• Paul McCartney (1942 – ) British musician, member of Beatles
• Queen Victoria ( 1819 – 1901) British monarch 1837 – 1901
• Pope Francis (1936 – ) First pope from the Americas
• Jawaharlal Nehru (1889 – 1964) Indian Prime Minister 1947 – 1964
• Leonardo da Vinci ( 1452 – 1519) Italian, painter, scientist, polymath
• Vincent Van Gogh (1853 – 1890) Dutch artist
• Franklin D. Roosevelt (1882 – 1945) US President 1932 – 1945
• Pope John Paul II (1920 – 2005) Polish Pope
• Thomas Edison ( 1847 – 1931) American inventor
• Rosa Parks (1913 – 2005)  American civil rights activist
• Lyndon Johnson (1908 – 1973) US President 1963 – 1969
• Ludwig Beethoven (1770 – 1827) German composer
• Oprah Winfrey (1954 – ) American TV presenter, actress, entrepreneur
• Indira Gandhi (1917 – 1984) Prime Minister of India 1966 – 1977
• Eva Peron (1919 – 1952) First Lady of Argentina 1946 – 1952
• Benazir Bhutto (1953 – 2007) Prime Minister of Pakistan 1993 – 1996
• George Orwell (1903 – 1950) British author
• Vladimir Putin (1952 – ) Russian leader
• Dalai Lama (1938 – ) Spiritual and political leader of Tibetans
• Walt Disney (1901 – 1966) American film producer
• Neil Armstrong (1930 – 2012) US astronaut
• Peter Sellers (1925 – 1980) British actor and comedian
• Barack Obama (1961 – ) US President 2008 – 2016
• Malcolm X (1925 – 1965) American Black nationalist leader
• J.K.Rowling (1965 – ) British author
• Richard Branson (1950 – ) British entrepreneur
• Pele (1940 – ) Brazilian footballer, considered greatest of 20th century.
• Angelina Jolie (1975 – ) Actress, director, humanitarian
• Jesse Owens (1913 – 1980) US track athlete, 1936 Olympics
• John Lennon (1940 – 1980) British musician, member of the Beatles
• Henry Ford (1863 – 1947) US Industrialist
• Haile Selassie (1892 – 1975) Emperor of Ethiopia 1930 – 1974
• Joseph Stalin (1879 – 1953) Leader of Soviet Union 1924 – 1953
• Lord Baden Powell (1857 – 1941) British Founder of scout movement
• Michael Jordan (1963 – ) US Basketball star
• Vladimir Lenin (1870 – 1924) Leader of Russian Revolution 1917
• Ingrid Bergman (1915 – 1982) Swedish actress
• Fidel Castro (1926 – ) President of Cuba 1976 – 2008
• Leo Tolstoy (1828 – 1910) Russian author and philosopher
• Greta Thunberg (2003 – ) Environmentalist activist)
• Pablo Picasso (1881 – 1973) Spanish modern artist
• Oscar Wilde (1854 – 1900) Irish author, poet, playwright
• Coco Chanel (1883 – 1971) French fashion designer
• Charles de Gaulle (1890 – 1970) French resistance leader and President 1959 – 1969
• Amelia Earhart ( 1897 – 1937) Aviator
• John M Keynes (1883 – 1946) British economist
• Louis Pasteur (1822 – 1895) French chemist and microbiologist
• Mikhail Gorbachev (1931 – ) Leader of Soviet Union 1985 – 1991
• Plato (423 BC – 348 BC) Greek philosopher
• Adolf Hitler (1889 – 1945) leader of Nazi Germany 1933 – 1945
• Sting (1951 – ) British musician
• Elon Musk (1971 – ) Business magnate, and entrepreneur.
• Mary Magdalene (4 BCE – 40CE) devotee of Jesus Christ
• Alfred Hitchcock (1899 – 1980) English / American film producer, director
• Michael Jackson (1958 – 2009) American musician
• Madonna (1958 – ) American musician, actress, author
• Mata Hari (1876 – 1917) Dutch exotic dancer, executed as spy
• Cleopatra (69 – 30 BCE) Queen of Egypt
• Grace Kelly (1929 – 1982) American actress, Princess of Monaco\
• Malala Yousafzai  (1997 – ) Pakistani human rights activist
• Steve Jobs (1955 – 2012) co-founder of Apple computers
• Ronald Reagan (1911 – 2004) US President 1981-1989
• Lionel Messi (1987 – ) Argentinian footballer
• Babe Ruth (1895 – 1948) American baseball player
• Bob Geldof (1951 – ) Irish musician, charity worker
• Roger Federer (1981 – ) Swiss Tennis player
• Sigmund Freud (1856 – 1939) Austrian psychoanalyst
• Woodrow Wilson (1856 – 1924) US president 1913 – 1921
• Mao Zedong (1893 – 1976) Leader of Chinese Communist revolution
• Katherine Hepburn (1907 – 2003) American actress
• Audrey Hepburn (1929 – 1993) British actress and humanitarian
• David Beckham (1975 – )  English footballer
• Tiger Woods (1975 – ) American golfer
• Usain Bolt (1986 – ) Jamaican athlete and Olympian
• Carl Lewis (1961 – ) US athlete and Olympian
• Prince Charles (1948 – )  Heir to British throne
• Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis (1929 – 1994) American wife of JF Kennedy
• Joe Biden (1942 – ) US President
• Kim Kardashian (1980 – ) American socialiate
• C.S. Lewis (1898 – 1963) British author
• Billie Holiday (1915 – 1959) American jazz singer
• J.R.R. Tolkien (1892 – 1973) British author
• Billie Jean King (1943 – ) American tennis player and human rights activist
• Margaret Thatcher (1925 – 2013) British Prime Minister 1979 – 1990

More famous people

• Anne Frank (1929 – 1945) Dutch Jewish author who died in Holocaust
• Simon Bolivar (1783 – 1830) Venezuelan independence activist in South America.
• Marie Antoinette (1755 – 1793) French Queen, executed during the French revolution
• Cristiano Ronaldo  (1985 – ) Portuguese footballer.
• Emmeline Pankhurst  (1858 – 1928) English suffragette.
• Emile Zatopek  (1922 – 2000) Czech athlete
• Desmond Tutu (1931 – 2021) South African Bishop and opponent of apartheid
• Lech Walesa  (1943 – ) Polish leader of Solidarity movement
• Julie Andrews  (1935 – ) British singer, actress
• Florence Nightingale  (1820 – 1910) British nurse
• Marie Curie  (1867 – 1934) Polish / French scientist
• Stephen Hawking (1942 – ) British scientist
• Tim Berners Lee (1955 – ) English creator of World Wide Web
• Aung San Suu Kyi (1945 – ) Burmese opposition leader
• Lance Armstrong (1971 – ) American cyclist
• Shakira  (1977 – ) Colombian singer
• Jon Stewart (1962 – ) American comedian
• Wright Brothers   Orville (1871 – 1948) and Wilbur (1867 – 1912) American inventors, aviation pioneers
• Ernest Hemingway (1899 – 1961) American author
• Roman Abramovich (1966 – ) Russian oligarch
• Tom Cruise (1962 – ) American actor
• Rupert Murdoch (1931 – ) Media owner of News Corporation
• Al Gore (1948 – ) US presidential candidate and environmental campaigner
• Sacha Baron Cohen (1971 – ) English comedian
• George Clooney (1961 – ) American actor and political activist
• Paul Krugman  (1953 – ) American Nobel Prize winning economist
• Jimmy Wales (1966 – ) American creator of Wikipedia
• Brad Pitt (1963 – ) Actor
• Kylie Minogue (1968 – ) Australian singer and actress
• Stephen King (1947 – ) American author

More Famous people

Famous historical figures : A list of famous people throughout the ages, which includes people from ancient civilisations to the present.

Famous People Through History

• Famous people of the Renaissance (14th – 15th Century)
• Famous people of the Enlightenment (late 17th Century)
• Famous Victorians (1832 – 1901)
• Famous people of the Nineteenth Century
• Famous people of Edwardian period (1901 – 1914)
• Famous people of Inter-war period (1918 – 1939)
• Twenty-first Century

Famous by Nationality

• Bangladesh i

Citation: Pettinger, Tejvan . “Top 100 Famous People”, Oxford, UK. www.biographyonline.net , 31/01/2016. Last updated 28 Sep 2019.

1000 Years of Famous People at Amazon

Famous People by Category

• Charity workers
• Entrepreneurs
• Great thinkers
• Famous leaders
• Military leaders
• People who built America
• People who changed the world
• People who fought for human rights
• Philanthropists
• Revolutionaries
• Richest people of all time
• Sporting personalities

Famous by religion

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• Resource Library
• Lesson Plan
• utah-mac-lesson

Education Standards

Utah core english language arts (2011).

Learning Domain: Writing

Standard: Conduct short research projects that build knowledge about a topic.

KeynoteSample

Sample Essay

Famous Person Research Project

This is a 3rd grade research project.  The final product will be a 5-pargraph essay and a digital presentation.  

In this research project, 3rd grade students will be choosing a famous person they would like to research, write an essay about, and create a presentation on. 

This will be a 5- 6 week project.  

Background for Teachers

To teach this lesson, the teacher will need to create a research model.  As 3rd graders are still young and probably not attune to how research is done, the teacher will need to plan how to model researching, so it's done appropriately.  

The teacher will need to choose a note taking technique to teach and model.  

The teacher will need to have an outline model so the students can take their research notes and put it in an outline format.  

The teacher will need to be able to teach the technology that will be part of the final presentation project.  

Student Prior Knowledge

Prior to the lesson, students will need to have an awareness of the positive impact their famous person has had so they can choose an appropriate person.

The students will need to be able to have reading stamina to spend a large amount of time reading about their famous person.  

The students will need a basic understanding of their iPads, as this will be the device the project will be created on.  

The students will need to be familiar with the 5-paragraph essay format.  

Student Learning Intentions and Success Criteria

Learning Intentions

Students will be able to read, research, and take notes on 3 areas of a famous person

• Why the person is famous
• Interesting Facts  

The students will understand the writing process for a research essay

• Read and research
• Put the notes into an outline
• From the outline, write a rough draft
• Edit and revise
• Publish--final copy

Success Criteria

The students will write about their famous person in a 5-paragraph essay

The students will use their knowledge and create a project using technology (iMovie, Podcast using Garage Band, etc.)

Instructional Procedures

1. Teachers will tap into prior knowedge of the students by asking questions such as: What is fame?  Who is a famous person?  What makes a person famous?  Is all fame good?  Students will answer these questions on their iPads using the WhiteBoard app.

2. The teacher will present the objectives of this project and the timeline

• choose a famous person
• read and research
• create an outline
• rough draft
• edit/revise
• create a project using technology

3. Time LIne

• 2 weeks to read and research
• 1 week to take notes
• 1-2 weeks to write the rough draft, edit/revise, and type the final essay
• 1 week to create the digital project

4. For each section of work, the teacher will create mini lessons and/or model using gradual release

5. Digital Project--students will be asked to showcase their reserch in a digital format.  An iMovie, podcast, google slide presenation, Keynote are examples.  Students may choose the app and format they would like to display their findings.  

List of APPS

Show Me (Whiteboard app)

Strategies for Diverse Learners

Modifications can be made such as:

• choose resources that can be read to struggling readers
• modify the length of the project (eg. 1-3 paragraphs instead of 5)
• Allow extra time

Extensions can be made such as:

• faster paced timeline
• allow for the opportunity to create multiple digital projects

Assessment Plan

• rubric for essay
• rubric for digital project
• Write on Demand assessment after the project is completely finished

Version History