Margaret Edith Weis was born in Independence, Missouri. While early life details are somewhat limited, her upbringing undoubtedly shaped her later storytelling abilities and fostered an appreciation for imaginative narratives.

Weis graduated from the University of Missouri with a Bachelor of Arts degree. While the specifics of her major are not widely publicized, the completion of her degree marked a formal step towards her professional life and provided a foundation for her future career as a writer and editor.

Weis joined TSR, Inc., the company responsible for the Dungeons & Dragons role-playing game. This marked a pivotal moment in her career, placing her at the heart of a burgeoning fantasy phenomenon. She initially worked as an editor, gaining valuable experience in the world of fantasy publishing and game development.

The publication of "Dragons of Autumn Twilight", co-authored with Tracy Hickman, launched the Dragonlance saga and catapulted Weis and Hickman to fame. This novel, the first in the "Chronicles" trilogy, introduced a rich world, memorable characters, and a compelling storyline that resonated with readers and gamers alike, fundamentally changing the landscape of fantasy literature.

Throughout the late 1980s and 1990s, Weis and Hickman continued to collaborate on numerous Dragonlance novels, expanding the world and its lore. This period solidified their reputation as leading figures in the fantasy genre and generated a vast, dedicated fanbase. Their consistent output and engaging storytelling secured the series' place as a cornerstone of fantasy literature.

Weis ventured into science fiction with "The Star of the Guardians" series, demonstrating her versatility as a writer. This series, though different in genre, showcased her ability to create compelling characters and intricate plots within a science fiction setting, proving her appeal extended beyond fantasy.

Margaret Weis continued to write both collaboratively and independently, producing numerous novels across various fantasy subgenres. This period highlights her enduring productivity and her ability to adapt to changing market trends while maintaining her core storytelling strengths.

In recent years, Weis has been involved in legal disputes with Wizards of the Coast (owners of Dungeons & Dragons and Dragonlance) concerning the publication rights for new Dragonlance novels. Despite these challenges, she continues to write and advocate for creator rights, demonstrating her unwavering passion for her work and the fantasy community.