Life history, or biodata, inventories are attractive alternatives to cognit
ive ability tests for selection, but they have been frequently criticized f
or their low construct validity and the a-theoretical nature of their items
. Little guidance in the literature is provided for developing good constru
ct-valid biodata measures. Using a content/construct-oriented approach, a b
iodata form was developed and validated. The methods for developing and val
idating the form are thoroughly described so as to provide guidelines for f
uture researchers, and evidence for the meaningfulness of the scales is pre
sented.