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Questions To Ask Someone For A Biography

Biographies are a great way to learn more about someone and their life. Asking the right questions can help to draw out important details and anecdotes that can make an interesting story. When interviewing someone for a biography, it is important to ask open-ended questions that allow the person to give more detailed answers. It is also important to ask follow-up questions so as to get a better understanding of the person’s life and experiences. Examples of questions to ask someone for a biography include: What are some of the most memorable or meaningful experiences in your life?; What motivated you to pursue a certain career or path in life?; What are some of the biggest life lessons you have learned?; What advice would you give to someone who is just starting out in life?; What do you wish you had done differently in life?; What do you feel are the most important values you strive to live by?; What are some of the biggest successes you have achieved in life?; What do you consider to be your biggest accomplishment?

Background Questions

When writing a biography, it is important to ask the subject questions that will provide insight into their background, life experiences, and personality. Background questions can reveal the subject’s family structure, educational background, work history, and other important details. Knowing these details can provide a full picture of the subject and can determine the direction of the biography. Here are some questions to consider asking the subject when researching their background:

• What was your family like growing up?

• What did you enjoy most about school?

• What was your first job?

• How did you get into your current profession?

• What challenges have you faced in your life?

• Where have you lived?

• What is your favorite childhood memory?

• What hobbies or activities do you enjoy?

• What did you learn from your past relationships?

Asking these background questions can help you to develop a more comprehensive understanding of the subject and their life story. The answers to these questions can provide the context needed to create an engaging and accurate biography.

Family and Education Questions

When you are interviewing someone for a biography, it is important to ask questions that will provide insight into their family, education, and other personal aspects of their life. By asking the right questions, you can get a better understanding of the person you are writing about and craft a more accurate and informative biography.

When it comes to family questions, you can ask about the person’s parents, siblings, and other relatives. What are their names? What did their parents do for a living? Did they have a close relationship with their family? Who was their closest relative?

Questions about education are also important for biographies. What school did they attend? Did they go to college or university? What did they study? What were their grades like? Did they participate in any extracurricular activities?

These are just a few of the questions you can ask when interviewing someone for a biography. Asking the right questions will help you get the information you need to create a compelling and accurate biography. By doing your research and asking the right questions, you can craft a biography that will help readers better understand the person you are writing about.

Career History Questions

When it comes to writing a biography, it is important to ask questions that will give you a comprehensive picture of someone’s life, career, and accomplishments. A great way to get to the heart of someone’s story is to ask them about their career history. Here are a few questions to consider when asking someone about their career history.

What was your first job? What inspired you to pursue that job? What have been some of your favorite accomplishments in your career? What have been some of the biggest challenges you have faced? What did you learn from your career experiences? What have been some of the most rewarding aspects of your career? How has your career evolved over the years? What advice would you give to people considering a similar career path?

Questions to ask someone to write a biography - Questions to ask ...

Interests and Hobbies Questions

Whether it’s a memoir of a family member, a celebrity, or even yourself, writing a biography can be immensely rewarding. To ensure you capture the true essence of their life story, it’s important to ask the right questions. When it comes to interests and hobbies, this can be particularly tricky. To ensure you get the answers you need, consider asking the following:

• What hobbies and activities do they enjoy?

• What is the story behind their favourite hobby?

• What did they enjoy doing as a child?

• What hobbies and activities do they find therapeutic?

• What new hobbies or activities have they recently tried out?

• What hobbies or activities do they feel passionate about?

• What is their favourite holiday destination?

• What do they like to do in their free time?

• What challenges have they faced in pursuing their hobbies and activities?

• What hobbies and activities do they find the most fulfilling?

By asking the right questions, you can get a comprehensive understanding of someone’s interests and hobbies. This will help you paint a clear picture of their character and provide valuable insights into their life and experiences. Taking the time to ask the right questions can make a huge difference when it comes to writing a captivating biography.

Life Experiences Questions

When writing a biography, it’s important to get to know the subject’s life experiences. To do this, you will need to ask questions about their past and present. Life experience questions can help you get a better insight into the subject’s memories, emotions, and relationships.

Some of the questions you could ask to get a better understanding of the person’s life experiences include: What was your family like growing up? What was your most meaningful experience in school? What is something you regret doing or not doing? What is the most difficult thing you have ever done? What has been the best moment in your life? What have been some of the most important lessons you have learned in life? What has been your greatest success? What has been your biggest challenge?

These questions can help you gain a deeper understanding of the person and their life experiences. Asking the right questions can help you to create an intriguing and comprehensive biography that captures the essence of the person’s life.

Reflection and Legacy Questions

Writing a biography is an important task that requires digging deep into a person’s life and emotions. To get a full sense of the individual, it’s essential to ask the right questions that will uncover meaningful insights and experiences. For this, reflection and legacy questions play a crucial role. These questions are designed to help us explore how a person thinks about their life, the impact they’ve made, and how they want to be remembered. Reflection and legacy questions can include: “What would you say are your most important accomplishments?”, “What do you think are the most meaningful lessons you’ve learned?”, “What has been the most difficult experience of your life?”, “How have you seen the world change during your lifetime?”, “What do you want to be remembered for?” Reflection and legacy questions are not only insightful for the biography, but they can also be a powerful way to spark meaningful conversations and help others gain a better understanding of who the person is and what their story is.

FAQs About the Questions To Ask Someone For A Biography

Q1. What events or experiences have had the most significant impact on your life?

Q2. What have been some of your biggest achievements?

Q3. What are your long-term goals and ambitions?

Asking questions to someone for a biography is an important step in understanding their life story. By asking questions that take into account both their past and present experiences, you can gain insight into their personality, values, and life goals. Questions can also cover topics such as their childhood, education, work, and hobbies. Taking the time to ask questions and get to know someone will provide you with a well-rounded story that you can use to write an engaging biography.

Maximo Garcia Biography

Mia Sanchez Biography

Michel Smith Boyd Biography

Writing a Bio: My 20 Favorite Questions to Ask

Writing a concise bio for a business website may seem like a no brainer. A few paragraphs, hit all the usual points like schools, charity work, career highlights and then, BAM! Bio, check.

The problem with that approach? There’s a high likelihood you’ll churn out super boring bios, fast. When I think of old school bios, I think of a stuffy headshot accompanied by a few paragraphs of text that no one wants to read. But the days of stale bios are over. Believe it or not, people actually want to learn about you and your company, and they’d rather not fall asleep while doing it.

A well-written bio will combine the overall company culture and voice with that of the profiled team member. While website bios are generally concise—anywhere from Twitter-short to a few paragraphs—choosing the particulars to highlight can be tricky. Gathering the right information up front, in a 15-20 minute interview, is key.

Here are my favorite questions to ask when writing a bio. Note: these don’t include the usual slew, like general career experience and education.

1. Who is someone you admire, and why?

2. Tell me three pet peeves.

3. What’s a typical day like for you?

4. Do you have any skills or talents that most people don’t know about?

5. If you could be anywhere other than here, right this minute, where would you be? (Don’t overthink it!)

6. Flashback to when you were 10 years old. What do you want to be when you grow up?

7. If we went to happy hour, what would you order?

8. Finish this sentence. On Sunday mornings, you can usually find me...

9. How do you want people to remember you?

10. What do you think are the best skills that you bring to your job?

11. Name three words that you describe you.

12. How do you think your colleagues would describe you?

13. What do you want to make sure you do before you die?

14. What’s a goal you have for yourself that you want to accomplish in the next year?

15. Name a few of your daily habits (other than a shower and brushing your teeth).

16. What publications do you regularly read?

17. What are you happiest doing, when you’re not working?

18. What are some causes you care about?

19. What do you do with friends in your spare time?

20. What would be your personal motto

Joanna Furlong

120 Questions to Ask When Interviewing Someone About Their Life

When embarking on the journey of interviewing someone about their life, we delve into the rich tapestry of their experiences, beliefs, and lessons learned. This collection of questions serves as a key to unlocking the treasure trove of stories that every individual carries.

These queries are designed to navigate through the chapters of one’s existence, from the innocence of early childhood to the wisdom that comes with reflecting on the future. Engage with these prompts to discover the essence of a person’s life story and craft a narrative that is both profound and enlightening.

Table of Contents

Early Life and Family Background

Can you share where and when you were born?
What memories do you have of your childhood home?
How would you describe your family dynamic as a child?
Do you have any siblings, and what were your relationships like with them?
What were your parents’ professions, and how did they influence you?
Are there any particular family traditions that influenced your upbringing?
What is your earliest memory?
Did you have any pets growing up?
What activities or hobbies did you enjoy as a child?
How did your family celebrate holidays or special occasions?
Who were your role models within your family, and why?
Was there something unique about your family’s cultural background?
What was your favorite thing to do with your family?
Did you face any hardships during your early years?
How do you think your upbringing has shaped the person you are today?

Education and Career Development

What was your favorite subject in school and why?
Did you participate in any extracurricular activities or sports?
Who was your favorite teacher, and what impact did they have on your life?
What level of education have you achieved, and how did you decide on that path?
How did you get into your current profession or line of work?
What jobs have you held, and what lessons did you learn from them?
Have you had any mentors in your professional life?
What are you most proud of accomplishing in your career?
Did you have a career plan, and how did you follow or deviate from it?
How do you balance your work life with your personal life?
What’s the most challenging aspect of your career?
Have you worked abroad, and if so, what was that experience like?
In your view, what constitutes success in a career?
Have you ever had to make a significant career change?
What advice would you give to someone starting in your field?

Personal Philosophies and Values

What personal values are most important to you?
Have your values changed over the years, and why?
What life philosophy do you live by?
How do you define happiness?
What do you believe is the purpose of life?
How important is spirituality or religion in your life?
How do you approach making difficult decisions?
What have you learned about yourself through your relationships with others?
In terms of legacy, what do you want to be remembered for?
How do you deal with regret or mistakes?
What does success mean to you outside of your career?
How do you handle stress or anxiety?
What practices do you follow to maintain mental and emotional well-being?
What role do politics or social issues play in your life?
What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever received?

Major Life Events and Turning Points

Can you describe a pivotal moment in your life?
How did a significant loss affect your life perspective?
What life event has brought you the most joy?
Has there been an unexpected turn in your life that you now see as a blessing?
Were there any historical events that significantly impacted your life?
Can you talk about a major accomplishment and how you achieved it?
How did becoming a parent (if applicable) change your life?
Was there a point when you had to make a tough choice that altered your life’s direction?
How has your life been different from what you imagined as a young person?
Can you share a time when you took a big risk?
What has been your most significant career milestone?
Have you ever moved to a new place and started over? What was that like?
Can you tell me about a time when you overcame a major obstacle?
Have you ever pursued a dream or goal against all odds?
What is one event you wish you could relive, and why?

Relationships and Community Connections

Who has been the most influential person in your life outside of your family?
Can you describe a friendship that has greatly impacted you?
How do you contribute to or participate in your community?
What role have your friends played throughout your life?
Have you been involved in volunteer work or activism?
How has your perspective on relationships changed over time?
What is the key to maintaining long-lasting relationships, in your opinion?
Can you talk about a time when a community came together to support you or others?
Have you ever felt isolated or disconnected? How did you overcome that?
How do you nurture new relationships?
What do you treasure most about your community?
How do you resolve conflicts within your personal relationships?
Is there someone you’ve lost contact with whom you’d like to reconnect?
How do you decide who to trust?
Can you share a story about a personal connection that taught you a valuable lesson?

Challenges and Overcoming Adversities

What was the most challenging period in your life?
How have difficult times shaped who you are today?
Can you tell me about a time when you failed at something important to you?
What was the biggest risk you’ve taken that didn’t pay off?
How do you cope with setbacks or disappointments?
Can you share a personal challenge that you’re proud to have overcome?
Who or what gave you strength during tough times?
Has there been a challenge that you’ve faced repeatedly, and how have you approached it?
How do you manage to keep a positive outlook during times of crisis?
What strategies do you use to regain motivation after a setback?
Have health issues ever been a major challenge for you?
What was a crucial turning point in overcoming a particular adversity?
What is the hardest lesson you’ve had to learn in life?
How have difficult experiences contributed to your growth?
In what ways have your struggles brought about positive changes in your life?

Creativity and Passions

What hobbies or activities do you feel most passionate about?
How do you cultivate your creative side?
Can you share an example of a project you worked on that was driven by passion?
Was there ever a time when you had to fight for your creative ideas?
How do you find inspiration for your creative endeavors?
What does creativity mean to you, and why is it important in your life?
Are there any creative pursuits you wish you had the time or resources to explore?
How do you overcome creative blocks?
What’s a passion project you’ve always wanted to start?
How do you integrate your passions into your daily life?
Can you describe a time when you shared your passion with others?
What creative achievement are you most proud of?
Has your creativity ever been misunderstood or undervalued?
How have your passions changed or evolved over the years?
What advice would you give to someone trying to pursue their creative interests?

Reflections and Look to the Future

Looking back, what piece of advice would you give to your younger self?
What are you most looking forward to in the future?
Are there any dreams or goals you still wish to accomplish?
What are your hopes for your family and loved ones?
How do you want the next generations to remember this time period?
What changes do you hope to see in the world within your lifetime?
How do you plan to spend your retirement or later years?
Is there anything you want to change about your current lifestyle?
What legacy do you hope to leave behind?
How do you stay informed and plan for the future in a rapidly changing world?
Do you have a bucket list, and if so, what’s on it?
What role do you think technology will play in shaping the future?
How do you keep a forward-thinking mindset?
What innovation or advancement are you most excited to see develop?
How do you envision your community or society evolving?

Frequently Asked Questions

How can i make the interviewee feel comfortable when discussing their life.

Establish a rapport with the interviewee before diving into deeper questions.
Be empathetic and respectful, giving them control over how much they wish to share.
Ensure a private and quiet setting for the conversation where the interviewee feels at ease.

What should I avoid when asking questions about someone’s life?

Steer clear of intrusive or sensitive topics unless the interviewee has expressed a willingness to address them.
Avoid yes or no questions that might limit the depth of the conversation.
Do not push for details if the interviewee is reluctant to share certain aspects of their life.

How do I know if a question is appropriate or not?

Consider the comfort and cultural background of the individual.
If in doubt, ask the interviewee if they are comfortable answering a particular type of question.
Observe body language and cues to gauge if the interviewee might feel uneasy.

Final Thoughts

Interviewing someone about their life is akin to painting a portrait with words. The questions I have curated for you will help to reveal the subject’s deeper layers, highlight pivotal moments, and honor the unique journey of the individual.

Through this discerning exploration, you’ll not only have a series of responses but a narrative that resonates with the authentic human experience. The stories uncovered may surprise, inspire, or even challenge us, but they will certainly enrich our understanding of the diverse tapestry of human life.

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Best questions for biography

Home » Questions » Best questions for biography

Writing a biography is an incredible way to preserve someone’s life story and share their experiences with the world. Whether you are writing a biography for a loved one, a historical figure, or a notable personality, having a list of well-thought-out questions is essential to gather all the necessary information. These questions serve as a guide to help you dig deeper into the person’s life, understand their journey, and showcase their accomplishments. In this article, we have compiled a comprehensive list of questions for biography that will assist you in creating a compelling narrative.

Before diving into the list of questions, it is crucial to understand that every biography is unique, and the questions you ask will depend on the individual you are writing about. It is essential to tailor the questions to suit their background, achievements, and the purpose of the biography. However, the following list provides a solid foundation to explore various aspects of a person’s life, including their childhood, education, career, relationships, and significant events.

Remember, a biography should not only focus on the person’s achievements but also provide insights into their personality, motivations, and struggles. These questions will help you create a well-rounded biography that captures the essence of the individual and leaves a lasting impact on your readers.

See these questions for biography

What is your full name?
Where and when were you born?
Can you share some details about your childhood?
What was your family background like?
Who were your role models growing up?
What were your favorite hobbies or activities as a child?
Did you have any siblings? If so, how did they influence your life?
What is your educational background?
Who was your favorite teacher and why?
What were your academic interests and strengths?
Did you face any challenges or obstacles during your education?
Can you recall any memorable experiences from your school days?
How did your career journey begin?
What motivated you to pursue your chosen career path?
Did you face any setbacks or rejections while establishing your career?
What were some significant milestones or achievements in your professional life?
Who were your mentors or influencers in your career?
What were some valuable lessons you learned from your professional experiences?
How did you balance your personal and professional life?
What led you to become involved in your community or charitable work?
What are some of your most memorable moments in your career?
Who are the most important people in your life?
Can you share any stories about your relationships with family and friends?
What are your core values and beliefs?
What are some defining moments or turning points in your life?
How do you handle challenges or adversity?
What are your greatest strengths and weaknesses?
How do you define success?
What are your goals and aspirations for the future?
What advice would you give to others aspiring to follow a similar path?
Can you recall any funny or memorable anecdotes from your life?
What are some of your favorite books, movies, or music?
How do you unwind and relax?
What are some of your favorite travel destinations?
Have you ever faced any moments of self-doubt or imposter syndrome?
What is the most valuable lesson you have learned in life?
How do you want to be remembered?
What legacy do you hope to leave behind?
Is there anything else you would like to share about your life?

These questions for biography provide a starting point for your research and interview process. Remember to be respectful, empathetic, and open-minded while gathering information about someone’s life. A biography is an opportunity to honor and celebrate an individual’s journey, so approach it with care and curiosity. Good luck in creating a captivating biography that will inspire and educate readers for years to come!

Best loaded questions adults sample questions

How to ask questions in a biographical interview

When it comes to questions, there’s a lot to cover. first, let’s look at how to ask questions, then in the next article, we’ll look at what types of questions you can ask..

Make it like conversation

In the spirit of keeping everyone comfortable, historian Studs Terkel said a successful interview should be like “engaging in conversation, having a cup of coffee” (cited by Ritchie). Terry, an interviewee of Terkel said that Terkel “doesn’t ask particularly probing questions, and yet he’s able to get people to open up and tell these marvellous little stories about themselves. He’s a good listener” (cited by Ritchie).

In an interview with Literary Hub, Nobel Laureate and oral historian Svetlana Alexievich said, “I never call what I do ‘interviews’. We speak to each other as neighbours, in a new genre that is required by our time. It is a history of human feelings”.

As you would in a regular conversation, keep tabs on your interviewee’s interest and their comfort. Ascough, Curthoys and McGarth say to note their energy levels and to watch if fatigue is starting to set in, however, as discussed in “Before the interview” the length of the interview should ideally be defined before it even begins.

Start with enjoyable topics

Talmage reminds us to remember that what you say first will affect the rest of the interview. Ritchie suggests starting with easy questions that are not “too abrupt and confrontational; instead, build up to the climactic questions by establishing the historical setting and making the interviewee more comfortable with the process”.

One way of doing this is starting with a discussion of topics the interviewee enjoys talking about before moving onto harder questions. Donald Ritchie shared an example of when this wasn’t possible: one interviewer was going to interview Edward Teller, a nuclear physicist – Teller arrived late and they had limited time – the interviewer skipped the easier, non confrontational questions and asked about the most controversial part. Teller responded by saying, “This interview is over” and left.

Consider leaving the difficult or critical questions until the middle or end of the interview, as they may need a break after these questions, or, Miller notes that they might choose to end the interview at or after this point. DeLouise & Harrington suggest that if you are interviewing someone who is sick or elderly, consider asking the critical questions first.

Handling short answers and sensitive topics

If you find that your interviewee is providing short answers, not answering in enough detail or being deliberately evasive, Ritchie suggests that this could be happening because the interviewer “is asking too many specific questions and not enough open-ended ‘how’ and ‘why’ questions” and also sometimes “interviewees are not always sure of how much detail interviewers want” or perhaps the interviewer has moved on to the next questions too quickly.

It could also be because the person is not particularly interested in the questions being asked, in which case it may be best to move onto another topic, or even consider ending the interview. If responses are short or evasive, Rollyson suggests the interviewee might perceive the topic to be controversial. People don’t always want to talk about difficult things, Ritchie notes that “interviewers must be prepared to ask questions about painful and embarrassing subjects – although they must also respect people’s right not to answer such questions, if they so choose”.

A trick Ritchie uses to ask difficult questions is to “quote someone else”, for example, “The Washington Post reported that you left office because of such and such. Was this a fair assessment?”. If the interviewee is defensive, come back to the topic later, even at a different interview session. In Doing Oral History, Adams is cited “When bringing up sensitive subjects, however, be careful not to appear embarrassed yourself. Interviewees will sense this, and it will make them uncomfortable, affecting their responses”.

Keep it simple

As well as starting with easier questions, keep the conversation simple by asking only one question at a time: avoid double-barrelled questions. Asking more than one question at a time may result in the interviewee choosing to only answer one part, either intentionally or simply because they forgot and if they forget, it means you’ll need to ask the question again anyway. Hamilton notes that asking many questions at once can result in the interviewee feeling overwhelmed, they may take offence or feel manipulated.

Next, let’s look at types of questions to ask in a biographical interview.

Written by Melody Dexter

351 Life Story Questions to Ask People (Storytelling)

Categories: Family Storytelling , Interviews & Questions
Tags: Questions to Ask

Ask people these 351 life story questions for storytelling.

What questions do you ask people when interviewing them about their life stories? What writing prompts do you use to write their story? In this article, I have included 351-plus writing prompts and questions to interview others and write their stories. They are a little random, but you get an idea of what you can discuss. I would encourage you to add questions that come to you.

Using Open-ended Questions

You will note that many of the questions are open-ended questions. I believe open-ended questions are the best type of questions to ask others. Open-ended questions allow people to tell stories they want to share. An example of open-ended questions are:

What did you like to do when you were a little girl?
What did you do on your first date?
Where do you like to go for a vacation?
Who is your favorite author, and why?
What some of your favorite experiences with your mom and dad?

When I interviewed my dad, I lived in a different state. I asked my dad if I could set up a series of telephone interviews that I could record. I chose to break up the interview into 10 60- to 90-minute sessions over six weeks. Each talk focused on a different time period or topic of his life. At the end of each interview, I outlined what I wanted to cover in the following interview to give my dad time to ponder what stories he wanted to share. During our interviews, he shared many personal stories that I had never heard. We laughed, cried, and shared many precious and tender moments.

I have prepared a couple of other resources that will provide value in interviewing for and writing individual, personal, and family narratives: “ Complete Guide for Conducting Oral History Interviews ” and “ Complete Guide to Writing A Personal Narrative .”

351 Life Story Questions to Ask Others

These 351 writing prompts and questions are part of a 28 article, 108 category series entitled “ 7,500-plus Questions About Life to Ask People When Writing Narratives .” I have divided the writing prompts and questions to ask others into the following categories. Click on the category to be taken to the questions.

Early Years

School years-elementary school, school years-jr. high school, school years-high school, school years-college/university/trade school, grandparents, spouses parents, professional/career, military and war, personal experiences, request for artifacts.

What is your full name, and why were you named that? (Maiden name for females)
Who are your parents and your grandparents? a. Your parents? Please give full names. b. Your grandparents? Please give full names.
What is your place of birth?
What are your birth date and year?
Were you named after someone?
Where did you live during your early years?
What are the earliest memories of your home?
Did you have any nicknames as you were growing up? a. If yes, what would you like to share about the nickname?
What chores did you have as a child? a. What memories do you have about your chores? b. Which chore did you dislike and why?
What kind of books did you like to read? a. Did you have a favorite book or books series? b. Why did you like the books?
What was your nighttime routine for going to bed? a. What memories would you like to share?
Did you have favorite songs that you liked to sing?
Why type of toys did you like to play with as a child?
What types of games did you like to play? a. Indoors? b. Outdoors? c. Boardgames?
What were your favorite foods as a child? Explain. a. Was there ever a time when you did not have enough to eat? Explain.
What did you want to become when you grew up? (e.g., policeman, fireman, nurse, doctor)
Who was the oldest person you remember as a child? a. What do you remember?
Did you ever have any childhood diseases (e.g., measles, mumps, chickenpox) growing up? What do you remember?

Return to questions list.

Where did you go to elementary school?
What was the school like?
Who were your friends in elementary school?
What are your favorite memories about your friends?
Who was your favorite teacher? Why?
Were you ever bullied in elementary school? Explain.
What memories do you have about elementary school?
How did you go to school?
Did you eat lunch at school or go home?
What did you like to play?
What did you like to do after school?
What other memories would you like to share?
Where did you go to school in Jr. High or Middle School?
Who were your friends in Jr. High school?
Were you ever bullied in Jr. High? Explain.
What memories do you have about Jr. High school?
What classes did you like most and why?
What type of classes did you take for your elective classes? (e.g., band, shop, home education)
Did you participate in after-school activities like sports, marching band, cheer or other activities? What are your memories?
Were there any dress fads during your school years?
What other memories about Jr. High would you like to share?
Were you ever given any special awards for your studies or school activities?
Describe yourself in High School.
Where did you go to school in High School?
Who were your friends in High school?
Were you ever bullied in high school? Explain.
What memories do you have of High School?
What classes did you like most and why? Least, and why?
What type of classes did you take for your elective classes?
What kind of grades did you get in your classes?
Did you participate in after-school activities like sports, marching band, cheer or other activities? What memories do you have?
Did you date during High School? What were their names? What memories would you like to share?
What did you wear to school? Describe it.
What other memories about High School would you like to share?
Did you and your friends have special hang-outs where you liked to spend time?
How many years of education have you completed?
Did you attend any school or training after high school?
What can you tell me about your education?
Why did you choose it as your field of study?
Did you graduate? What memories would you like to share?
Describe yourself as a young adult.
Did you date as a youth? a. How older were you had your first date? b. What do you remember about your first date? c. Who was your first date?
When did you first meet your spouse? a. Where was it? b. What do you remember about the first meeting? c. Describe your time dating? d. What attracted you to that person? e. Describe your time together. a. Describe them. f. How long did you know them before you got married? g. Describe your wedding proposal.
Where and when did you get married? (Include date, place, church, etc.)
Describe your wedding day and ceremony.
Who was there? Best Man, Bride’s Maid, other wedding party members?
Did you have a honeymoon? a. Where did you go?
How would you describe your spouse(s)?
What do (did) you admire most about them?
How long have (were) you married?
When and where did your spouse die? a. How died? b. Where buried?
What advice would you give to your child or grandchild on their wedding day?
Have you ever been divorced? What can you share?
Do you have children?
What are their names, birth dates and birthplaces?
What is the story behind each name you gave your children?
Did you adopt any children? a. Can your share your experiences of adoption?
Describe the memory about learning you were going to be a parent for the first time?
What memories do you have about each child?
Describe the personalities of your children.
What are some of the most memorable experiences you had with your children/family?
What memorable experiences did you have with each child?
What is some funny, humorous experience you had with your family?
What were some trying times as a family? Explain? a. What did you do to overcome the time? b. How did it affect your family?
What did you find most challenging about raising children?
What do you consider to be rewarding about being a parent?
How would you describe your parenting style as a parent?
What are the lessons you learned as a parent?
What were your happiest moments as a parent?
Where were your saddest moments as a parent?
What would you like to do over if you could as a parent?
How did you treat each child?
What do you consider to be the most complex decisions you made as a parent?
What do you regret most as a parent?
Who influenced you most as a parent?
What were your happiest moments as a family?
What were your tragic moments as a family?
Did you move as a family? Why and where? a. How did the move affect your family?
How did you first hear that you were a grandparent, and how did you feel about it?
What advice would you pass on to your children/grandchildren?
What can you tell me about your parents? a. What memories would you like to share about your mother? b. What memories would you like to share about your father? c. What memories would you like to share about your parents together?
Did your parents stay together, divorce or pass away? If yes, did they remember? a. What memories would you like to share? b. Did you have any stepparents? c. What memories would you like to share?
Do you remember hearing your parents describe their lives? a. What did they say?
When and where did your parents die? a. What do you remember about it? b. How they died, were hospitalized, buried?
Did your family belong to a religion? If yes, a. Did your parents and grandparents belong to the religion? b. Did you attend a church? c. What do you remember? d. Do you have any experiences you would like to share?
What can you remember about your grandparents? a. What memories would you like to share about each of your grandmothers? b. What memories would you like to share about each of your grandfathers? c. What memories do you have about your grandparents together?
Do you remember hearing your grandparents describe their lives? b. What did they say?
Do you remember your great-grandparents? a. What do you know about them?
Did you have any brothers and sisters? What were their names? a. What memories do you have about your brothers and sisters that you would like to share?
How did your family have fun when you were a child?
Where did your spouse’s parents live? a. What memories do you have about your spouse’s parents?
When and where did your spouse’s parents die? c. What do you remember about it? d. How did they die, were hospitalized, buried?
What details can you remember about the death of your spouse’s parents?
What was your chosen career?
Where did you receive training/education for your career?
How did you decide on a career?
What do you remember about your first job?
Where have you worked? City? Company? a. What were the jobs? b. What do you remember about each job? c. Has work provided a good living? d. Describe a typical day at work? e. What did you like most/least about work?
Did you have more than a career? Explain.
What are some of your most memorable experiences/projects? • Have you retired? When would you like to retire?
Did you serve in the military? a. What branch of the service did you serve? b. Why did you decide to join the military? c. When and where did you serve? d. Where were you trained? e. What was your training?
Where were you stationed during active military duty? a. Describe each post and what you did? b. What are your memories of active duty? c. Do you remember your units? If yes, what were they?
What was your highest rank?
Did you ever serve in the war? Which one (s)? a. WWII, Korean War, Vietnam War, Desert Storm, Iraq and Afghanistan, or other? a. What were the circumstances? b. Were you in a combat or support role? c. What campaigns were you in? What was your role in the campaign?
Would you be willing to share your experiences and memories of war? a. If yes, where would you like to begin? b. Were you injured in war? Explain.
How did your time in the military affect you? Explain.
By what name/nickname do your friends call you? Does the name have a special meaning?
What name are you known by among family?
As you look back on your life, what would you consider to be the most important ____? Why? Explain your memories. a. Inventions? News events? World events? Politics? Technology advances?
Talk about the differences in today’s life compared to the time as a child?
Did you or your family experience events like prohibition, the depression, war? Explain. What do you remember?
Have you had any health problems over the years? a. What were the health issues? b. When did the health issue arise? c. How did they affect your life? d. Where they heredity? e. What are they?
What do you do regularly for exercise?
Have you ever been hospitalized? If so, what for? a. Have you ever had surgery? b. What for? c. Do you or have you ever had habits that you would consider wrong? Explain? d. Do you still have them, or did you overcome them? Explain.
Have you been a victim of crime? a. What happened? b. How did the incident affect your life?
Have you ever been in a severe accident?
Has anyone ever saved your life? a. Describe.
How would you describe yourself politically? b. Are you Conservative or Liberal, and why?
Who would you consider to be your good/best friend (s)? a. What are their names? b. How long have you known them? c. What do you like about them? d. What do you do together? a. What would your friend say about you?
Have you ever met anyone that you would consider being a soul mate or kindred spirit? a. Who were they? b. Explain why you felt a special bond with them?
What were the most (i.e., challenging, meaningful, troubling) decision(s) you have made in your life? Explain. a. What was the outcome? b. Do you consider the outcome to good or bad? Why?
Who do you consider the most influential individuals in your life? a. Who were they? b. What did they do that influenced your life?
What do you consider to be the essential advice you have received in life? a. Did you take that advice? b. What was the outcome? Explain.
Is there anything you would change about yourself? Why? Explain.
Describe moments/memories in your life when you were most stressed?
What do you consider to be the tough times in your life? Why? Explain. a. What helped you get through the period? b. How did the experience affect you for good or bad?
Describe times when you were scared? What happened?
Have you ever played a musical instrument? a. If yes, what kind? Describe your experience.
Are you or would you consider yourself to be creative? Explain.
Have you ever made something for someone else? Explain?
What types of service have you provided others? a. How does it make you feel? b. What were the outcomes of your service?
What are moments in life when others served you? a. What was the most memorable time? b. What were the outcomes of the service?
How would you describe your sense of humor?
Have you ever played a practical joke on someone? a. Describe that experience and what you did.
What type of activities have you enjoyed as an adult? a. Recreation? Hobbies? Personal enrichment? Relaxation? b. What did you like about each activity? c. A most memorable experience with each activity?
When you were not working, what did you like to do?
What would you consider to be the most exciting/wonderful experience in your life?
Did you ever meet anyone famous? Who? a. Describe the experience.
Have you ever belonged to any organizations or groups? a. What the group about? b. What drew you to join the group? c. What are your memorable experiences in the group? d. Are you still a member? If not, explain.
Have you ever been awarded a price or award as an adult? Explain. a. What did you have to do to earn the award?
Describe a time in your life when you felt most happy or at peace? a. Where were you, and what were you doing?
Describe the beautiful place you have ever visited, and what was it like?
Have you ever taken an extended trip or vacation? a. Where did you go? b. What did you do?
What do you consider to be your favorite vacation? a. Where did you go, and why was it special?
Do you have a place that is special to you where you like to visit? a. Where is it? b. Why is the place special? c. Can you share your memories?
Have you ever had a pet? a. What was the animal? b. What was the name of the animal? c. How did the pet become part of your life? d. Do you have a favorite story about your pet?
What is on your bucket list of things still to do? Why?
Is there a time in your life that you would consider to be most memorable?
What or who is your favorite and why: a. Animal? Artist? Athlete? b. Author? Boardgame? Book? c. Candy? Card game? Color? d. Cookie? Desert? Drink? e. Ice cream flavor? Flower? Fruit? f. Holiday? Meal? Movie star? g. Movie? Musical group? Musical instrument? h. Painting? Poem? Poet? i. Restaurant? Season? Singer? j. Song? Sport? Style of music? k. Tree? TV program? Vegetable?
How would you describe each member of your family? a. Mother? b. Father, c. Siblings (brothers/sisters)? d. Children?
Who fits the following descriptions and why? a. Animal lover? Best cook? Best gardener? Best housekeeper? b. Best looking? Best memory? Best storyteller? Biggest tease? c. Calmest? Funniest? Hardest worker? Most athletic? d. Most colorful? Most creative? Most frugal? Most generous? e. Most mischievous? Most politically active? Most reclusive? f. Most relaxed? Most sociable? Quietest? Shortest? g. Tallest? Wildest lifestyle?
Do you have any artifacts like letters, journals, photos, movies, videos or audio recordings of older family members that can help tell your story?
Would you allow me to make copies (e.g., Photograph, scan, read)?

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We love writing stories. The mission of Begin My Story is to help and inspire you to write the stories that matter to you. Every life is a story worth remembering. We believe the stories you write will make a difference and have the power to connect, inspire, challenge, and help us not forget.

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Great Interview Questions

Great life story interviews start with great questions. Photo of a senior man being interviewed.

Great interviews start with great questions. We do professional oral history interviewing for families, as part of bigger history projects, and books and have done thousands, so we have learned a thing or two. Here are some question lists and other resources to get you started.

Related: Why oral history is important

It’s a good idea to go into an interview with a few questions prepared , and especially highlight any that you want to make sure you ask. However, often an ice breaker and a well-chosen question here and there will keep the conversation going. It’s a positive sign when not all your questions are used in an interview (they rarely are).

Also, most interviewees appreciate receiving a few questions in advance. When sending, indicate that they are simply food for thought and the interview will not follow a rigid format. If only one interview is done with a subject, ask a variety of questions on different topics. You might check out our top 10 list as a handy reference, listed below. If a series of interviews is envisioned, it’s helpful to focus on themes in each interview.

If you are interested in preserving life stories , our online course contains an excellent segment on oral history. You can complete this fun and engaging self-paced course over a weekend, or spread it out through a month. (Course access remains open for a year). Click here to preview.

Categories of Questions

10 Universal questions for anyone
Childhood, school and hometown
Relationship questions
Family life as an adult
Work and profession
Spirituality, religion and values

Questions for Veterans

10 universal interview questions.

This is a great list for a stand-alone interview and is a handy grab-and-go cheat sheet. Some of the questions are repeated in other categories.

Where were you born?
Tell me about your childhood, what was the best part? Worst?
Who was the most influential person in your life?
What is your profession and why?
What was the happiest time of your life?
Tell about a time when you didn’t know if you would make it.
Who is the love of your life and how did you meet?
What is your passion (or a favorite hobby?)
What is your favorite memory of me?
What do you value most and why?

Get our free printable:

Quick interviewing resources

Before we continue with more questions, we want to make you aware of other resources we have compiled to help you.

Oral history mini course online : video tutorials and checklists will help you feel confident with audio, transcribing and especially listening. It takes less than 2 hours to complete but will save you so much time!
If you would like help getting started with interviewing, sign up to receive our free 7-day interviewing mini tutorial
You can click here to get a free printable of our favorite questions
Here is a landing page of our many interviewing resources
In our professional work, we give a pretty booklet of questions to people in advance. Click here to get the booklet on Amazon .
If you are writing a memoir or family history, hre is a landing page of writing tools
Finally, we do this work professionally and offer gift certificates to interview you or a loved one. Click here to see our oral history services .

Childhood, School and Hometown

What is your earliest memory?
Who are your parents? Where did they grow up?
How many siblings do you have and where do you fall in your family?
What were your chores?
What is your hometown, and what was it like when you were young?
Did you like school?
What did you do for fun?
How did you celebrate holidays?
How did you celebrate holidays? Did your family have some special holiday traditions?
What were your favorite meals?
What were some memorable trips or outings?
Can you think of any funny stories from your youth?
What is an object you still have from your childhood and what is the story behind it?
What is a moment from your life that you wish you had a photograph?

Related: The best affordable microphones we have tried

Family Life as an Adult

Are you or have you ever been married?
Do you have children?
What are traditions you established in your family?
What were your favorite trips or outings?
Where do you live now and why?
Who is your best friend?
What was the happiest time in your adult life so far? Why?
What was the hardest time? How did you get through it?
What were the most important values you wanted to teach your family?
How would you want your loved ones to remember you?

Related: Our favorite digital recorder – a review

Relationship Questions

Editor’s note: This category is not limited to marriage or intimate partner. These questions can also apply to a great friend or business partner.

How did you meet? (Note: This is such a simple question yet it is an effective ice breaker)
What are some of your early and best memories together?
Do you have a song, “our song?”
Did you ever break up?
Was there ever a time or times when you didn’t know if your relationship would make it?
When and how did you know it was meant to be?
What are the challenges in your relationship?
How do you work through disagreements or differences?
What are some of your best fun memories together?
Do any trips or vacations together especially stand out?
Can you think of a low point in your life when the other person was there for you?
How do you keep your relationship strong?
How are you alike, and how are you different?
What do you admire most about the other person?
What are the other person’s quirks or personality traits that you love?
How are you better together than without the other person?
Thinking of your relationship, what advice would you give a young person, such as your children?
Can you think of long-standing inside jokes, or phrases you tell each other?
What are some of the activities that you share, that maybe other people wouldn’t understand or that are unique to your relationship?
What are your dreams for the future together?
Would you say that this person is the love of your life?

Professional interviewer’s note: starting any interview by asking how two people met is a great way to break the ice!

Related: Become a master business storyteller with these 5 questions

Work and Profession

What was your first job?
What is your profession or job?
Do you like your job?
What did you want to be when you grew up?
How did you get into this line of work?
Have you belonged to any civic or professional organizations?
Have you ever been involved in politics or a political cause?
What are you proudest of in your career?
Who was your greatest mentor?
What is your passion and how did you get started with it?

Related article: How to inspire others with your canon of business stories

Spirituality, Religion and Values

Have you ever experienced a miracle or an answer to a prayer?
Do you believe in God?
Do you associate with a religion or spiritual practice?
If you attend religious services, where do you attend? Why do you choose worship with that particular congregation or community?
What was the most powerful spiritual experience of your life?
What are you proudest of in your life?
What do you regret?
If you could share with your family your most important values, what would you say?
What experiences in your life that taught you these values?

Related: Is yours a redemption story?

Did you enlist or were you drafted?
Why did you choose that branch of the service?
When and where did you serve?
What were your job duties?
If you saw combat, how did you feel when witnessing casualties and destruction? ( For help with sensitive subjects, click here. )
What kinds of friendships and camaraderie did you form while serving, and with whom?
How did you stay in touch with family and friends back home?
What did you do for recreation?
What did you learn from your time in the military?
What would you want to share with future generations your service , and your feelings about our country?

Related: Here is a comprehensive list of Questions for Veterans (published by the Library of Congress Veteran History Project)

Other resources for you

We do this work for a living and can use our experience to help you get it done! We conduct oral history interviews in person, which can make a great gift . We regularly teach classes in person and online for the DIY personalities and natural writers. We also write life stories and help others write theirs through our writing groups and educational emails. Do you have a question? Let us know! Click here to reach out.

Index of interviewing resources

You might want to check out our index page of interviewing resources .
Want great audio? Read our article with 12 steps for the best audio and how to save it.
Need to transcribe your interview? Click here for a detailed article on how to efficiently transcribe audio .

Free Interviewing Mini tutorial PDF

To motivate and help you do great interviews, we created a free 7-day interviewing mini course that’s printable and self-paced. Click on the link for a free download. We hope you find it helpful!

How to do oral history interviews course

By completing this short course, you will feel confident and prepared to conduct life story interviews. Receive thorough, yet easy-to-understand answers to questions such as: What is the power of voice to evoke memories and inspire others? Should you use a digital recorder, or app on your phone, or both? What are best practices for doing interviews by Zoom/Teams/Google Meet? Which microphones are worth the money? What are the most efficient methods for transcribing audio? Why is oral history the easiest, and most powerful way to capture a life story?

Click here to preview or enroll. I’m so happy to say our students have loved it! You can see their thoughts on our courses, printables, and services here .

We hope that these resources help you do engaging and meaningful interviews. We know this work is worth it, and you can do it. Do it now and it will be enough.

Some Possible Questions

Because every individual is unique and every interviewer has his or her own special interests and research goals, there is no single set of questions that will fit every situation. The following are some that might help guide an interview with a relative or community member about family folklore and local traditions. Pick and choose among them to suit your own interests, and change the wording as you see fit. Ultimately, the most useful questions will be those that you develop yourself based on your knowledge of your own family and/or community. Remember not to be tied to a formal list of questions; rather use your questions as guideposts for the interview. Be flexible and have fun!

Biographical Questions

What is your name?
Where and when were you born?
Where did you grow up?
Where have you lived?
What jobs have you had?
What do you do for a living now?

Family Folklore

Q : What do you know about your family name? Are there stories about its history or origins? Has it undergone any changes? Are there any stories about those changes? Are there any traditional first names or nicknames in your family? What are they? How did they come about? Are there any naming traditions? What are they?

Q : Do you know any stories about how your family first came to the United States? Where did they first settle? Why? How did they make a living? Did your family stay in one place or move around? How did they come to live in this area?

Q : If your tradition-bearer is a first-generation immigrant, you might ask him or her: Why did you leave to come to the United States? What possessions did you bring with you and why? What was the journey like? Which family members came along or stayed behind? What were some of your first impressions and early experiences in this country? What traditions or customs have you made an effort to preserve? Why? Are there traditions that you have given up or changed? Why?

Q : What languages do you speak? Do you speak a different language in different settings, such as home, school, or work? Are there any expressions, jokes, stories, celebrations where a certain language is always used? Can you give some examples?

Q : What stories have come down to you about your parents and grandparents? More distant ancestors? (If you are interviewing your grandparents, ask them to tell you stories about what your parents were like when they were young!)

Q : Do you know any courtship stories? How did your parents, grandparents, and other relatives come to meet and marry?

Q : What are some of your childhood memories? What games did you play when you were a child? Did you sing verses when you played games? What were they? What kinds of toys did you play with? Who made them? Did you make any yourself? How did you make them? What kinds of materials did you use? What kind of home entertainment was there? Was there storytelling? Music? Were there craft traditions? Describe these traditions.

Q : Does your family have any special sayings or expressions? What are they? How did they come about?

Q : How are holidays traditionally celebrated in your family? What holidays are the most important? Are there special family traditions, customs, songs, foods? Has your family created its own traditions and celebrations? What are they? How did they come about?

Q : What special foodways traditions does your family have? Have any recipes been preserved and passed down in your family from generation to generation? What are they? What are their origins? Have they changed over the years? How? Have any of the ingredients been adapted or changed? Why? Are there certain foods that are traditionally prepared for holidays and celebrations? Who makes them? Are there family stories connected to the preparation of special foods?

Q : Does your family hold reunions? When? Where? Who attends? How long have the reunions been going on? What activities take place? Are awards given out? Is there a central figure who is honored? Why? What sorts of stories are told at these events?

Q : What family heirlooms or keepsakes and mementos do you possess? Why are they valuable to you? What is their history? How were they handed down? Are there any memories or stories connected with them?

Q : Do you have any photo albums, scrapbooks, home movies? Who made them? When? Can you describe/explain their contents? Who is pictured? What activities and events are documented?

Local History and Community Life

Q : Describe the place — urban neighborhood, small town, rural community, suburb — where you grew up. What was it like? How has it changed over the years? What brought about these changes? What did people do for a living? What do they do now?

Q : Can you draw a map of your local community? Of your neighborhood? Your family home? Your farmstead? What places stand out most in your mind and why? What are/were your neighbors like? What kinds of local gatherings and events are there? What stories and memories come to mind?

Q : What community traditions are celebrated today? Church suppers? Chinese New Year parades? Saint’s day processions? Cinco de Mayo celebrations? What are they like? How long have they been going on? How have they changed? Who is involved? Why are they important to the community?

Q : How have historical events affected your family and community? For example, what were some of your experiences during World War II, the Civil Rights Movement? Cultural Traditions/Occupational Skills

Q : How did you first get started with this particular tradition/skill? What got you interested?

Q : How did you learn your skills? Who taught you? When? What was the learning process like? What is the most challenging or difficult aspect of the tradition to learn? Why?

Q : What are the key characteristics of the tradition? What is its history? Do you know how and where the tradition originated? How has it traditionally been practiced? How has it changed or developed over time?

Q : Does the tradition have different styles or variations? What are they?

Q: Describe the steps of the process from start to finish. What’s involved?

Q : What special knowledge, skills, and abilities are needed? What techniques and methods?

Q : What raw materials are used? Where do you get your materials/supplies/ingredients? How are they prepared? Have they changed over time? How? Why?

Q : What tools are involved? How and when are they used?

Q : How do you judge excellence within the tradition? What standards and criteria are used to evaluate the way the tradition is performed? What makes someone respected in the tradition?

Q : In what context is the skill/tradition performed? For whom? When?

Q : What do you value most about what you do? Why?

Q : What do you think is the future of this tradition? What are its challenges and opportunities? Are others learning and practicing the tradition?

< previous | next >

Introduction
The Interview
Presenting Your Findings
A Glossary of Key Terms
Selected Bibliography
Internet Resources
Sample Forms
Credits and Acknowledgements

Family photos can evoke memories and trigger stories. Photo courtesy of Marjorie Hunt.

Afrolatinidad: Art & Identity in D.C. is an interview series highlighting the vitality of the local Afro-Latinx community. Before the term Afro-Latinx entered popular discourse, Latin Americans of the Diaspora have been sharing their stories through artistic manifestations online and in community spaces throughout the district. Their perspectives are intersectional in nature of existing in between spaces of Blackness and Latinidad.

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320 Questions to Ask Someone From a Different Culture

Exploring different cultures is like opening a door to a whole new world. It’s exciting, colorful, and full of surprises! Whether you’re traveling, meeting new friends, or just curious, asking questions about someone’s culture can be a thrilling journey. It helps us understand each other better and find common ground.

So here’s a guide to help you ask thoughtful questions and maybe even discover something amazing about our diverse world.

Table of Contents

Cultural Traditions and Celebrations

Food and cuisine, music, art, and entertainment, daily life and habits, family and social structures, communication and language, education and career, religious and spiritual beliefs, values and norms, history and important events, frequently asked questions, final thoughts.

What’s the most important celebration in your culture, and how do you celebrate it?
Can you share a unique cultural tradition that’s been passed down in your family?
How does your culture celebrate the changing of seasons?
How does your community celebrate weddings, and are there special customs involved?
What’s a festive tradition in your culture that you think should be more widely known?
Can you describe a celebration or event that is unique to your region or local area?
How do traditional beliefs influence the celebrations in your culture?
Can you explain the significance of a specific symbol or motif used in celebrations?
How do you prepare for a major cultural festival or celebration in your community?
Are there any cultural celebrations that involve the wider community or invite participation from outside your culture?
What’s a lesser-known cultural celebration you wish more people knew about?
How does your culture honor its ancestors during celebrations?
Are there any cultural celebrations that focus on nature and the environment?
How do decorations and symbols take part in your cultural festivities?
What role does craftsmanship, such as pottery or weaving, play in your celebrations?
Can you share a personal memorable experience from a cultural celebration?
What is the significance of gifts or exchanges during your cultural festivals?
How do rituals of thanksgiving or gratitude play out in your cultural celebrations?
Are there any taboos or specific things to avoid during cultural celebrations?
What’s a cultural celebration that has evolved over time, and what has changed?
What are some traditional dishes in your culture?
How are meals typically prepared in your family?
Are there any unique ingredients or cooking methods?
What is your favorite food from your culture?
Are there special dishes for holidays or celebrations?
What’s the significance of food in your culture’s gatherings?
Can you describe a traditional breakfast, lunch, and dinner?
How do people in your culture feel about spicy or sweet food?
Are there specific foods for different age groups or genders?
How do you eat your meals? Do you use utensils or your hands?
What are some common street foods in your culture?
How do you preserve traditional recipes in your family?
Are there any foods that are considered good luck or have special meaning?
What’s the role of food in religious or spiritual practices?
How do you express hospitality through food in your culture?
How does your culture handle dietary restrictions?
Are there any traditional cooking tools or utensils unique to your culture?
How are meals served in a family setting?
What are common food-related customs or manners?
Are there any traditional drinks or beverages?
How do people in your culture feel about foreign foods?
How are children involved in cooking or food preparation?
What are popular snacks in your culture?
Are there any food traditions related to weddings or other ceremonies?
How do you celebrate a good harvest or other food-related success?
Are there any unique table settings or dining arrangements in your culture?
What are some traditional food gifts given on special occasions?
How are food and recipes shared or taught within families or communities?
Can you describe a traditional dish cooked only on special occasions?
What are some of the unusual or exotic foods in your culture that outsiders might find interesting?
What are some traditional forms of music in your culture?
How does art reflect the history or values of your culture?
What are popular forms of entertainment, like games or hobbies?
Can you describe a traditional dance or theatrical performance?
How are musicians, artists, or entertainers viewed in your society?
What’s the role of festivals or public celebrations in showcasing culture?
Are there any cultural sites or museums that highlight your artistic heritage?
How are children introduced to music, art, or entertainment?
What are some contemporary or modern influences on traditional art forms?
How do people in your culture celebrate or appreciate creativity?
Are there any specific symbols or motifs often seen in your art or music?
What are some famous works of art, music, or literature from your culture?
How does your culture use art or music in religious or spiritual practices?
What’s the role of humor or comedy in entertainment?
Are there any traditional crafts or handmade art forms still practiced?
How does your culture preserve or revive traditional art or music?
How do art and music contribute to social or political expression?
What are some unique or unconventional forms of art or entertainment?
How do people in your culture engage with film or television?
How are artists or musicians trained and supported in your culture?
What’s the role of storytelling or oral traditions in entertainment?
How do family and community participate in artistic or musical activities?
What are some emerging trends or innovations in your culture’s art and entertainment scene?
How do different generations in your culture engage with music, art, or entertainment?
What are the traditional instruments used in your culture’s music?
Are there specific themes or messages often explored in your culture’s artwork?
How do people in your culture learn to play musical instruments or create art?
What role do folktales or legends play in your culture’s art and entertainment?
How do artists or musicians collaborate or work together in your culture?
Are there any festivals or events specifically dedicated to art or music?
How do people in your culture use art or music to cope with stress or challenging times?
What traditional art forms, like pottery or weaving, are still practiced today?
How do schools or educational systems support the arts or creative subjects?
How do public spaces, like parks or squares, showcase art or music in your culture?
What are some rituals or customs involving music or artistic expression?
What does a typical day look like for you?
What’s the most common way people in your culture relax after a day’s work?
How important is mealtime in your family or community?
What’s a habit you have that’s specifically influenced by your cultural background?
How do people in your culture typically handle stress or unwind?
Can you describe a popular leisure activity or hobby in your culture?
What’s the typical work or school schedule like in your culture?
How do people in your culture make time for family and friends?
Is there a particular day of the week that has special significance in your culture?
How do your cultural values influence your daily interactions with others?
What type of transportation do people commonly use in their daily lives?
What’s a daily challenge that people in your culture regularly face?
How do people in your culture prioritize their health and well-being?
Can you share a common household chore or task and how it’s typically done in your culture?
What’s something people in your culture do for fun on regular weeknights?
How does your culture view punctuality and time management in daily life?
What role does technology play in a typical day for you or your community?
How do people in your culture approach personal space and privacy in everyday interactions?
How do people in your culture celebrate personal achievements or milestones?
Can you share a superstition or belief that influences daily activities in your culture?
Are there any specific customs or etiquette related to visiting someone’s home in your culture?
How do people in your culture balance work-life and personal life?
How has the typical day in your culture changed over the past few decades?
What role do pets and animals play in daily life in your culture?
How do environmental concerns affect daily habits and practices in your culture?
How is your family structure different from what I might be used to?
Can you tell me about any unique family traditions you celebrate?
Who are considered to be members of the family outside of immediate kin?
How do social roles within the family differ from one generation to the next?
Are there any special ceremonies or rites of passage your culture observes?
How do people in your culture typically meet their spouse or partner?
What’s the significance of marriage in your culture?
How are household responsibilities usually divided in families?
Is living with extended family common in your culture?
How does your culture view older adults, and how are they cared for?
What role do children play in the family and society?
How is inheritance handled within families?
Are there specific roles or tasks assigned by gender?
How does your culture handle conflicts within the family?
What’s the most important family value in your culture?
How does the community involve itself in family matters?
How are decisions made within the family?
Is there a particular family dynamic influenced by your culture’s history?
How do celebrations and holidays bring families and the community together?
How does education shape family and social structures in your culture?
What’s one thing you wish others understood about your family culture?
How does your culture’s family structure influence child upbringing?
Are there any taboos or sensitive topics within family discussions?
How do modern influences affect traditional family structures in your culture?
How do you maintain family bonds and connections over distances or time apart?
In what ways has globalization impacted family and social structures in your culture?
How are new family members, such as in-laws, integrated into the family?
How does your culture celebrate the birth of a new family member?
Can you share a story that illustrates your family or social structure?
How are love and affection shown within families in your culture?
Are there any particular challenges facing families in your culture today?
How do families in your culture prioritize education and career choices?
How does the social structure influence relationships with neighbors and the wider community?
How do you see family and social structures evolving in your culture?
What’s one tradition or aspect of your family structure you’re particularly proud of?
What are the common greetings in your culture?
How do you express politeness or respect in conversation?
Are there specific non-verbal cues or gestures that are common?
How do people in your culture feel about direct or indirect communication?
What are the traditional ways of communicating, like storytelling or oral traditions?
How do people in your culture handle disagreements or conflicts in communication?
Are there differences in communication styles between generations?
How do you address someone formally or informally in your language?
What’s the role of humor or jokes in everyday communication?
How do people in your culture communicate affection or friendship?
Are there any taboo subjects or topics to avoid in conversation?
How does technology influence communication in your culture?
How do you express gratitude or thanks in your culture?
Are there any specific words or phrases unique to your dialect or region?
How is body language interpreted in your culture?
What’s the role of written communication, like letters or poetry, in your culture?
How do people in your culture communicate with those who speak a different language?
How do you approach communication with elders or authority figures?
Are there any traditional communication rituals or ceremonies?
How do you communicate an invitation or request in your culture?
What’s the importance of listening in communication in your culture?
How do communication styles vary in different social settings, like work or home?
How do you say sorry or apologize in your culture?
How does communication play a role in building community or social bonds?
How do you communicate support or encouragement to others?
How does your culture view silence or pauses in conversation?
What are some creative or artistic forms of communication in your culture?
How do people in your culture use symbols or signs in communication?
What are some culturally specific idioms or expressions?
How do people in your culture approach communicating emotions or feelings?
How does your culture view gossip or sharing personal information?
What are the influences of media or advertising in everyday communication?
Are there any specific words or phrases to avoid or use cautiously in conversation?
How do schools or educational institutions teach communication skills?
Are there any traditional games or activities that focus on communication skills?
How do people in your culture communicate gratitude or acknowledge favors?
What’s the importance of tone of voice in verbal communication?
How do people in your culture use touch or physical contact in communication?
How do people in your culture communicate their identity or personal beliefs?
How has the communication style in your culture evolved with changes in technology or globalization?
How do people in your culture typically choose their career paths?
Can you describe the education system in your country?
What’s considered the most prestigious career or field of study in your culture?
How does your culture value vocational vs. academic education?
What are the biggest challenges students face in your education system?
How do families in your culture approach the topic of education and career planning?
How does mentorship play a role in career development in your culture?
Can you share a success story from someone in your community who inspired you?
What role does government or community support play in education in your culture?
How are job opportunities in your country affected by economic or political factors?
What’s a common first job experience for young people?
How do cultural norms influence workplace dynamics in your country?
Are gap years or travels common in your culture before starting a career or further education?
How does your culture accommodate continuing education for adults?
What’s the average age at which people enter the workforce or start their careers?
How has your culture’s view on education and career choices evolved over generations?
What industries or sectors are growing rapidly in your country?
How do people in your culture balance work and life responsibilities?
What are the expectations for someone just starting their career?
How is success in education and career defined in your culture?
What challenges do women face in education and the workforce in your culture?
How do societal expectations shape career choices in your culture?
What opportunities are there for foreign study or work in your culture?
How do people in your culture adapt to changes in the job market?
What’s a unique tradition related to education or career achievements?
How does your culture recognize and celebrate academic or professional accomplishments?
What impact has globalization had on education and careers in your culture?
How do people change careers in your culture, and is it common?
Are internships and practical work experience valued in your educational system?
How do technology and innovation influence education and career paths?
How does your culture support individuals with disabilities in education and employment?
What role does language play in education and career opportunities in your culture?
How does your culture view entrepreneurship and starting one’s own business?
What’s a significant barrier to education or career progress that individuals face?
Can you share how cultural heritage influences education and career choices in your community?
Can you describe the main religion in your culture?
How do religious beliefs shape daily life?
What are common religious symbols or icons in your culture?
How are religious ceremonies conducted?
What are the major religious holidays, and how are they celebrated?
How do you practice your religion at home?
Are there specific religious practices for children or adults?
How do religious leaders play a role in your community?
Are there any places of worship that are significant in your culture?
How are marriages influenced by religious beliefs?
How do religious beliefs influence your view of the world?
Are there any religious rituals related to birth or death?
How does your religion approach moral or ethical dilemmas?
How do you feel about other religions?
What’s the role of prayer or meditation in your culture?
How do religious beliefs affect healthcare decisions?
Are there specific dress codes related to religion?
How does religion influence art, music, or literature in your culture?
How are religious teachings passed down to the next generation?
How does religion affect politics or government in your culture?
Are there any religious festivals that are unique to your region?
How does your religion approach issues like poverty or social justice?
Are there religious customs related to food or eating?
How does religion shape family relationships and traditions?
What are some religious stories or myths that are important in your culture?
What are common misconceptions about your religion?
Are there any religious taboos or forbidden practices?
How do you handle religious differences within the family or community?
How has the practice of religion changed over time in your culture?
How do young people in your culture engage with religious practices?
Are there specific religious traditions or practices only observed by women or men?
How does your religion approach the concept of forgiveness?
How do religious communities support one another during times of need?
Are there any religious or spiritual retreats that are part of your tradition?
How does your religion view other belief systems or philosophies?
What’s the role of music or chanting in religious ceremonies in your culture?
How does your religion address environmental stewardship or care for nature?
What are the primary virtues or values emphasized in your religious teachings?
How are religious or spiritual leaders chosen and trained in your culture?
Are there any religious texts or scriptures that are considered essential reading?
What are the core values that your culture holds dear?
How do these values influence daily life and behavior in your community?
Can you share a common saying or proverb that encapsulates a key value in your culture?
How are children taught about cultural norms and values in your society?
How do your cultural values influence the way you approach conflicts or disagreements?
In what ways do you think your culture’s values are unique compared to others?
How are respect and politeness shown in your culture?
What role does family play in upholding and passing down values?
How do the values in your culture impact the community’s approach to social issues?
Are there any cultural norms related to hospitality and treating guests?
How does your culture view the concept of individuality versus community?
What importance does your culture place on education and knowledge?
What practices in your culture reflect values of generosity and kindness?
How do cultural norms influence fashion and personal expression?
In what ways do technology and modernization challenge traditional values?
How do values and norms dictate the celebration of festivals and holidays?
What are considered virtues in your culture?
How do your cultural values guide your interactions with elders and authority figures?
What’s a recent change in cultural norms have you noticed in your society?
How are success and achievement defined in your culture?
What’s a taboo in your culture, and what values does it represent?
How do the values of your culture influence its stance on global issues?
Are there specific cultural norms dictating gender roles and expectations?
How does your culture view the importance of time and punctuality?
What are the expectations for young adults in your culture regarding independence and living independently?
How do values and norms affect artistic expression and creativity in your culture?
How do norms and values influence dietary choices and food practices?
How are values and norms communicated in media and entertainment within your culture?
What impact do cultural values have on the legal system and governance in your society?
How has globalization affected the traditional values in your culture?
What’s one historical event that has greatly shaped your culture?
Can you share a piece of your country’s history you’re particularly proud of?
How does your culture commemorate significant historical events?
Are there any historical figures in your culture that have inspired you? Why?
How do you think your country’s history affects its current identity?
What’s a common misconception about the history of your culture?
How is history taught in schools in your country? Do you think it’s comprehensive?
Are there any historical events that have led to changes in your culture’s social structure?
Can you tell me about a historical event that isn’t well-known outside your culture but should be?
How do yearly celebrations or holidays relate to important historical events in your culture?
What role has your country played in global history?
How do historical events influence the architecture and landmarks in your country?
How has your culture’s history dealt with conflict and resolution?
Can you describe a traditional story or legend that has been passed down through generations?
What’s a historic site in your country you think everyone should visit?
How does your family history intertwine with the history of your country?
Are there any traditions that have been preserved from ancient times in your culture?
How does your culture honor its ancestors and their contributions?
What historical event in your culture do you wish had gone differently?
How has your culture’s history influenced art, music, and literature?
Could you share some historical customs that are still practiced today?
How has the geography of your country influenced its history and development?
What is a significant turning point in your country’s history?
How are important national heroes remembered and celebrated?
Are there specific periods in your country’s history that have defined its current culture?
Can you share an example of a historical conflict and how it was resolved?
Are there any historical artifacts or symbols that hold special meaning in your culture?
What’s a significant event in the history of your culture that relates to its religious or spiritual beliefs?
How have migrations and movements of people influenced the history of your culture?
What role does storytelling play in keeping your culture’s history alive?

Are there any questions I should avoid?

Yes, some topics may be sensitive. Here are some guidelines:

Avoid personal or intrusive questions unless the person seems comfortable sharing.

Stay away from stereotypes or assumptions that might come across as judgmental.

Is learning a new language necessary for understanding a different culture?

While learning a language is not mandatory, it can enhance your understanding. Even learning a few phrases or greetings can show respect and curiosity.

Additionally, immersing oneself in the language can provide deeper insights into cultural nuances, such as humor, idioms, and expressions that may not be easily translated. It allows for more authentic interactions with native speakers, helping to break down barriers and foster a genuine connection.

While not a requirement, embracing the language of a culture can undoubtedly enrich the experience and lead to a more profound appreciation of its unique characteristics.

How can I ask questions without offending anyone?

It’s vital to approach this with sensitivity. Here are some tips: – Use open-ended questions – Be genuine in your curiosity – Avoid assumptions or stereotypes – Respect privacy and boundaries

How should we show respect to people from different cultures?

Showing respect to people with different cultures can be done through:

1. Understanding and appreciation : Educate yourself about their traditions, beliefs, and values.

2. Open communication : Ask open-ended questions, listen actively, and avoid making assumptions.

3. Embrace differences : Recognize and celebrate what makes their culture unique.

4. Avoid stereotypes : Refrain from generalizations that might lead to misunderstandings.

5. Mind your manners : Follow appropriate etiquette, greetings, and gestures.

6. Show empathy : Be considerate and show interest in their culture without judgment.

Asking about someone’s culture is more than just a conversation starter. It’s a chance to build bridges, grow friendships, and see the world through someone else’s eyes. These questions are keys to unlocking stories, traditions, and values that make us unique yet connected. So go ahead, ask away, and dive into the rich tapestry of human experience.

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Robby Salveron

Robby is a multimedia editor at UpJourney with a journalism and communications background.

When she's not working, Robby transforms into an introverted art lover who indulges in her love for sports, learning new things, and sipping her favorite soda. She also enjoys unwinding with feel-good movies, books, and video games. She's also a proud pet parent to her beloved dog, Dustin.

50 Questions to Ask Relatives About Family History

ThoughtCo / Nusha Ashjaee

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Vital Records Around the World
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Certificate in Genealogical Research, Boston University
B.A., Carnegie Mellon University

A great way to uncover clues to your family history or to get great quotes for journaling in a heritage scrapbook is a family interview. By asking the right open-ended questions, you're sure to collect a wealth of family tales . Use this list of family history interview questions to help you get started, but be sure to personalize the interview with your own questions as well.

Questions About Their Childhood

What is your full name? Why did your parents select this name for you? Did you have a nickname ?
When and where were you born?
How did your family come to live there?
Were there other family members in the area? Who?
What was the house (apartment, farm, etc.) like? How many rooms? Bathrooms? Did it have electricity? Indoor plumbing? Telephones?
Were there any special items in the house that you remember?
What is your earliest childhood memory?
Describe the personalities of your family members.
What kind of games did you play growing up?
What was your favorite toy and why?
What was your favorite thing to do for fun (movies, go to the beach, etc.)?
Did you have family chores? What were they? Which was your least favorite?
Did you receive an allowance? How much? Did you save your money or spend it?
What was school like for you as a child? What were your best and worst subjects? Where did you attend grade school? High school? College?
What school activities and sports did you participate in?
Do you remember any fads from your youth? Popular hairstyles? Clothes?
Who were your childhood heroes?
What were your favorite songs and music genres?
Did you have any pets? If so, what kind and what were their names?
What was your religion growing up? What church, if any, did you attend?
Were you ever mentioned in a newspaper?
Who were your friends when you were growing up?

Questions About the Family

What world events had the most impact on you when you were a child? Did any of them personally affect your family?
Describe a typical family dinner. Did you all eat together as a family? Who did the cooking? What were your favorite foods ?
How were holidays (birthdays, Christmas, etc.) celebrated in your family? Did your family have special traditions?
How is the world today different from what it was like when you were a child?
Who was the oldest relative you remember as a child? What do you remember about them?
What do you know about your family surname ?
Is there a naming tradition in your family, such as always giving the firstborn son the name of his paternal grandfather?
What stories have come down to you about your parents? Grandparents? More distant ancestors?
Are there any stories about famous or infamous relatives in your family?
Have any recipes been passed down to you from family members?
Are there any physical characteristics that run in your family?
Are there any special heirlooms , photos, bibles, or other memorabilia that have been passed down in your family?

Questions About Their Adult Life

What was the full name of your spouse? Siblings? Parents?
When and how did you meet your spouse? What did you do on dates?
What was it like when you proposed (or were proposed to)? Where and when did it happen? How did you feel?
Where and when did you get married?
What memory stands out the most from your wedding day?
How would you describe your spouse? What do (did) you admire most about them?
What do you believe is the key to a successful marriage?
How did you find out you were going to be a parent for the first time?
Why did you choose your children's names?
What was your proudest moment as a parent?
What did your family enjoy doing together?
What was your profession and how did you choose it?
If you could have had any other profession, what would it have been? Why wasn't this your first choice?
Of all the things you learned from your parents, what do you feel was the most valuable?
What accomplishments are you most proud of?
What is the one thing you most want people to remember about you?

While these questions make great conversation starters, the best way to uncover the good stuff is through more of a storytelling session than a Q&A.

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COMMENTS

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Types of questions to ask in a biographical interview
There's the basics: open and closed-ended questions… then there's more specific types of questions, each with their own purpose. Let's take a look at the funnel approach, statements, rhetorical, narrative, explanatory and verification questions. In my article Interviewing for biography: interrogation, conversation, and the in-between, I ...
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120 Questions to Ask When Interviewing Someone About Their Life. When embarking on the journey of interviewing someone about their life, we delve into the rich tapestry of their experiences, beliefs, and lessons learned. This collection of questions serves as a key to unlocking the treasure trove of stories that every individual carries. These ...
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Writing someone's life story is a tremendous responsibility, filled with challenges. ... Partial biography: Some biographies don't attempt to tell an entire story, ... Your job is to know which questions to ask. Your job is to probe. Remember: a biography isn't just about telling a story, but about finding the fresh story buried somewhere ...
How to ask questions in a biographical interview
Keep it simple. As well as starting with easier questions, keep the conversation simple by asking only one question at a time: avoid double-barrelled questions. Asking more than one question at a time may result in the interviewee choosing to only answer one part, either intentionally or simply because they forgot and if they forget, it means ...
351 Life Story Questions to Ask People (Storytelling)
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PDF Life Interview Questions
What day of the week was it? Did your parents tell you anything about the day you were born? Where were you born? Why were you given the first (and middle) name(s) that you have? What's your first, most vivid memory? What was the apartment or house like that you grew up in? How many bedrooms did it have?
Great Interview Questions
If only one interview is done with a subject, ask a variety of questions on different topics. You might check out our top 10 list as a handy reference, listed below. If a series of interviews is envisioned, it's helpful to focus on themes in each interview. ... starting any interview by asking how two people met is a great way to break the ...
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PDF These questions may be useful in developing your information about the
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10 Questions About Hopes, Dreams, and Fears . These questions to get to know someone involve asking about their hopes, dreams, and fears. This taps into a part of them that they may seldom talk about with others. It even serves them, in a way, since it invites them to ponder themselves on a deeper level. Questions to ask include:
320 Questions to Ask Someone From a Different Culture
1. Understanding and appreciation: Educate yourself about their traditions, beliefs, and values. 2. Open communication: Ask open-ended questions, listen actively, and avoid making assumptions. 3. Embrace differences: Recognize and celebrate what makes their culture unique. 4. Avoid stereotypes: Refrain from generalizations that might lead to ...
50 Questions to Ask Relatives About Family History
A great way to uncover clues to your family history or to get great quotes for journaling in a heritage scrapbook is a family interview. By asking the right open-ended questions, you're sure to collect a wealth of family tales.Use this list of family history interview questions to help you get started, but be sure to personalize the interview with your own questions as well.

Questions To Ask Someone For A Biography

Background Questions

Family and Education Questions

Career History Questions

Interests and Hobbies Questions

Life Experiences Questions

Reflection and Legacy Questions

FAQs About the Questions To Ask Someone For A Biography

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Frequently Asked Questions

What should I avoid when asking questions about someone’s life?

How do I know if a question is appropriate or not?

Final Thoughts

Best questions for biography

See these questions for biography

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

How to ask questions in a biographical interview

Make it like conversation

Start with enjoyable topics

Handling short answers and sensitive topics

Keep it simple

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Using Open-ended Questions

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50 Questions to Ask Relatives About Family History

Questions About Their Childhood

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