1.4 Writing Skills: Biographies, Autobiographies & Professional E-mails

 

Writing Skills: Biographies, Autobiographies & Professional E-mails

Paper: PROFESSIONAL ENGLISH
Marks: 20–25

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Introduction

Writing is one of the four core language skills essential for professional and academic success. In Professional English, writing skills focus on clarity, structure, correctness, and appropriateness of tone. Among the most important writing forms are biographies, autobiographies, and professional e-mails, which are frequently tested in examinations and used in workplace communication.

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1. Writing Biographies

Meaning

A biography is a written account of a person’s life written by someone else. It presents factual information about the individual’s background, achievements, contributions, and impact on society.

Characteristics of a Biography

• Written in third person

• Based on facts and verified information

• Chronological order (birth → education → career → achievements)

• Formal and objective tone

Structure of a Biography

1. Introduction – Name, birth, and significance of the person

2. Early Life & Education

3. Career and Achievements

4. Major Contributions

5. Conclusion – Legacy and influence

Sample Biography

Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam was born on 15 October 1931 in Rameswaram, Tamil Nadu. He was an eminent scientist and the 11th President of India. After completing his education in aerospace engineering, he worked at ISRO and DRDO, where he played a key role in India’s missile development programs. Known as the “Missile Man of India,” he contributed significantly to India’s defense and space research. Dr. Kalam inspired millions through his writings and speeches. His life remains a symbol of simplicity, dedication, and national service.

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2. Writing Autobiographies

Meaning

An autobiography is the story of a person’s life written by the person himself or herself. It reflects personal experiences, emotions, and achievements.

Characteristics of an Autobiography

• Written in first person (“I”, “my”)

• Personal and reflective tone

• Focus on life experiences and lessons learned

• Chronological narration

Structure of an Autobiography

1. Early Life

2. Education and Growth

3. Challenges and Experiences

4. Achievements

5. Present Status and Goals

Sample Autobiography (Short)

I was born in Chennai and completed my schooling there. From a young age, I developed an interest in learning and communication. During my college years, I actively participated in seminars and group discussions, which helped me gain confidence. Although I faced challenges, I learned valuable lessons from them. Today, I aspire to become a responsible professional and contribute positively to society.

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3. Drafting Professional E-mails

Meaning

A professional e-mail is a formal written communication used in academic and workplace contexts to convey information clearly and politely.

Features of a Professional E-mail

• Clear subject line

• Formal greeting

• Concise and relevant content

• Polite tone

• Proper closing and signature

Format of a Professional E-mail

1. To

2. Subject

3. Salutation

4. Body of the Mail

5. Closing

6. Signature

Sample Professional E-mail

Subject: Request for Permission to Attend Workshop

Dear Sir/Madam,

I hope this email finds you well. I am writing to request permission to attend a technical workshop on “Emerging Trends in Information Technology” scheduled for next week. The workshop will help enhance my technical and communication skills.

I kindly request you to grant permission for the same.

Thanking you.

Yours sincerely,
Arun Kumar
II Year B.Tech IT

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Importance of These Writing Skills

• Helps in academic examinations

• Essential for professional communication

• Improves clarity, organization, and confidence

• Enhances employability and workplace efficiency

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Conclusion

Biographies, autobiographies, and professional e-mails are vital components of writing skills in Professional English. Mastery of these forms enables students to communicate effectively in both academic and professional environments. Clear structure, appropriate tone, and correct language usage are the keys to scoring high marks in examinations.

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References

1. Veena Selvam et al. (2021). English for Science & Technology. Cambridge University Press.

2. Anbazhagan Vijay, J. (2017). Communicative English. Global Publishers, Chennai.

3. Raman, M., & Sharma, S. (2019). Professional English. Oxford University Press.

4. Chellammal, V. (2003). Learning to Communicate. Allied Publishing House.

5. Using English (2017). Orient Blackswan.

6. OER – Authentic Open Educational Resources.

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