How can you identify a "biography"?

A biography is specifically defined as a written account that provides an overview of a person's life, written by someone else. This distinction is crucial since it highlights the objective perspective provided by the author, who is not the subject of the biography. The focus on real events, accomplishments, and the overall arc of the individual’s life is what makes this genre unique.

Understanding the essence of a biography involves recognizing its purpose to inform, educate, and narrate the experiences and achievements of another person, often providing insights into their character and the historical or social context in which they lived. This comprehensive portrayal is absent in fictional stories, emotional pieces, or collections of letters, making the second choice the most accurate description of a biography.