Ghostwriting 101: Tips from Bloggers Who've Done It

Emma Brudner

Updated: December 06, 2021

Published: October 27, 2020

As someone who has done it in the past, ghostwriting can certainly be a bit spooky at first.Wondering whether you're doing your subjects and their ideas justice can run a chill down your spine.

ghost writing examples

From my perspective, taking the fear out of ghostwriting comes down to knowing when to use your subject's voice or your own. And it should be a half-and-half blend -- too much from column A, and the piece can lack structure; too much from column B, and you're just writing, not ghostwriting.

I learned early on that some Frankenstein-esque combination voice where you try to write as yourself and your subject simultaneously isn't really a thing, so save yourself the headache and divvy up their voice and your voice like so.

→ Download Now: 6 Free Blog Post Templates

What is Ghostwriting?

Ghostwriting is the process of writing a piece of copy under someone else's name. For example, as a freelancer, you might be hired to write a blog post that's published under the CMO's name.

Essentially, ghostwriting is when someone else has the byline on a piece you wrote.

How to Ghostwrite

  • Interview the person you're ghostwriting for.
  • Make sure you understand the voice of the person you're writing for.
  • Find the themes.
  • Be flexible.

1. Interview the person you're ghostwriting for.

The most important part of ghostwriting is understanding the material that you're writing about. As a ghostwriter, you probably write about a variety of topics from industry blogs to memoirs. Before you dive into each piece, it's essential to talk to the person you're ghostwriting for and discuss the topic in depth.

Pam Bump, the Audience Growth Manager on the HubSpot blog team, says, "If you can, interview the person you're ghostwriting for over the phone or on a video call. This will not only allow you to take down all the key details they want to cover in the content, but you'll also learn more about how they speak or present tips. This can help you write content that naturally reads as if it was written by them."

2. Make sure you understand the voice of the person you're writing for.

Jumping off that last point, interviewing the person you're ghostwriting for will help you get a sense of their voice. We'll dive into when to use your voice or the client's voice below, but each piece you write should have a distinct style and tone.

Bump adds, "If you can't interview them to get a sense of how they talk or present their thoughts, you can alternatively read some of their other blog posts, social media posts, or published works to get a sense of how they write."

3. Find the themes.

When you're interviewing the person you're ghostwriting for, it's important to think about the narrative and structure of the piece you're writing.

Karla Cook, HubSpot's Senior Manager of the blog team, says, "It's important to meet with the person you're ghostwriting for at the beginning of the project and have a conversation about what they want the written piece to cover. This is their chance to share their brilliant, unfiltered thoughts with you, and it's your job as the ghostwriter to identify themes, strong phrases, and potential narratives for when you approach producing the piece later on. This is also an opportunity to get a feel for how your subject approaches communicating, and can help inform how you represent their voice."

4. Be flexible.

While interviewing the subject is the best way to learn about the topic you'll be writing about, being adaptable and flexible is important to succeed.

Cook adds, "People who use ghostwriters are usually busy, so if you can't meet with them in person, ask them to record a voice memo or even jot down a few notes in a document to get started."

Now, let's dive into one of the most important aspects of ghostwriting: when to use your own voice versus your client's voice.

When to Use Their Voice

1. main ideas.

The argument of the piece should be determined by your subject, no matter what your personal take on it is. Bear in mind that it's going to be published under their byline. Your opinion is moot, and therefore should be mute.

Thesis aside, I also steer clear of adding or subtracting ideas. If a subject bothers to bring up an argument that means it's important to them, and should be featured in the finished product in some way. Conversely, if the subject does not mention a topic, don't bring it in, no matter how much you think it would bring the point home, clarify the argument, or sound awesome.

It's simple: If they don't say it, I don't write it.

2. Signature Words or Phrases

If I were writing an article for Emeril Lagasse , you can bet it would be peppered with "BAM!"

You would be hard-pressed to find me using this phrase in my day-to-day life -- heck, it's not even my go-to exclamation. But Emeril says it, and for that reason, I would write it.

"Bam!" is a fairly innocuous example, but I bet you can think of some favorite turns of phrase that are senseless, silly sounding, or unnecessary. But if this is how the subject talks, then this is how the subject would presumably write. Including signature words makes the article seem more genuine, especially to readers familiar with the person.

The only time I would strike or edit a favorite phrase is if it's unintentionally grammatically incorrect. All other instances of "BAM!" "fuggetaboutit," "survey says," and "that's all folks!" stay in.

3. Data Points

Data is in almost every business article these days, and rightly so. Nothing can support an argument quite like the perfect statistic or chart.

The problem is there are plenty of statistics out there that aren't perfect. Sometimes, a subject offers up great data to support their points, and other times … less great. But I try to keep in mind that I'm not the expert here -- there's a reason why the subject used this specific piece of data, and it's not up to you to judge whether it's up to par.

I aim to use the majority of data points that subjects give me, but I always inquire after the source. That way, if I really feel shaky about the numbers, I can go back and check into their accuracy on my own. If I find a problem, I bring it to my subject's attention and let them determine if it should still be published.

When to Use Your Voice

Generally, people who use ghostwriters are busy doing fascinating stuff. That means that their minds are crammed with interesting information, and with so much on their plates, they may not always be the most organized speakers. They probably didn't have time to document exactly what they would like to talk about, and they might interject an off-topic fact or two.

The subject's ideas should be the meat of the piece, but it's the writer's responsibility to organize those thoughts in the most logical and effective way. Set the subject up for success by grabbing an anecdote they mentioned in the middle of your interview and moving it up to the opener if you think that's where it belongs. Similarly, conclusions can come from anywhere -- carefully listen for a solid closing thought, and bring it to the last paragraph.

List out the arguments presented, and arrange them in whatever way you think flows best. Odds are, your subject will be grateful for the organization help.

2. Transitions

Not many people move from one point to the next with perfectly crafted segues. Instead, they jump back and forth, interrupt themselves, or abruptly change directions.

That means it's up to you to add the nice transitions. I find that these are easier to provide in your own voice, since everyone has their own way of making arguments flow. Trying to mimic someone else's segue style might result in a garbled article.

3. Very Necessary Explanations

I try not to insert any points that weren't at least referenced by my subject, but there is an important exclusion to this rule: explanations.

Some subjects are so embroiled in their area of expertise that it can be difficult for them to break down their arguments for laypeople. The writer should act as a proxy for the audience, and if they think a point could use some clarification, they should circle back to the subject. If the subject fails to deliver an adequate explanation, ghostwriters should then take it upon themselves to provide succinct supporting information -- but it should be done in no more than a few sentences.

Bonus: When You Shouldn't Use a Voice

Just as important as understanding which voice to use is knowing when to not use any voice -- in other words, recognizing what should be cut.

As I mentioned above, subjects who rely on ghostwriters are often brilliant, passionate people. That said, they can sometimes go off on a tangent.

You don't have to make the article representative of the time spent talking about each point. Maybe you covered one argument in five minutes, and another in twenty. You should include both in the piece, but try to allot each equal space by paring down the second. Cast an editorial eye to which details are important and which aren't, and cut accordingly.

Editor's note: This post was originally published in August 2014 and has been updated for comprehensiveness.

ghostwriting_0

Don't forget to share this post!

Related articles.

What Is Microblogging: A Start-to-Finish Guide for 2024

What Is Microblogging: A Start-to-Finish Guide for 2024

How Often Should You (or Your Company) Blog? [New Data]

How Often Should You (or Your Company) Blog? [New Data]

19 Types of Blogs that Make Money in 2024 [+Examples]

19 Types of Blogs that Make Money in 2024 [+Examples]

The Top 3 Reasons Consumers Read Blogs & How to Attract Them in 2024 [New Data]

The Top 3 Reasons Consumers Read Blogs & How to Attract Them in 2024 [New Data]

SEO For Pinterest: 20 Pinterest Tips To Drive Discovery and Clicks

SEO For Pinterest: 20 Pinterest Tips To Drive Discovery and Clicks

Social Media for Nonprofits: Top Tips From BGCGW’s Director of Donor Relations

Social Media for Nonprofits: Top Tips From BGCGW’s Director of Donor Relations

What's a Blog & Why You Need One

What's a Blog & Why You Need One

How to Monetize Your Brand's Blog in 2023, According to HubSpot's Blog Leaders

How to Monetize Your Brand's Blog in 2023, According to HubSpot's Blog Leaders

101 Most Profitable Blog Niches & Finding One That Works for You

101 Most Profitable Blog Niches & Finding One That Works for You

Blog vs. Podcast: Which Is the Best Choice for Your Business?

Blog vs. Podcast: Which Is the Best Choice for Your Business?

Save time creating blog posts with these free templates.

Marketing software that helps you drive revenue, save time and resources, and measure and optimize your investments — all on one easy-to-use platform

How To Write An Awful Blog Post That No One Will Read? 

Everything you need to know about infographics – a comprehensive guide, 7 steps to create killer pillar posts.

  • The Best Invoicing Software For Content Writers
  • The Real Truth About Freelancing: Top Freelance Myths – Busted!
  • These Are Challenges Content Writers Typically Face And Here’s How To Overcome Them
  • The Difference Between Creative Writing And Content Writing
  • 11 SEO Tips For Creative Content Writers

Ghostwriting 101 – A Beginner’s Guide To Learn Ghost Writing

Ghostwriting 101 - A Beginner's Guide To Learn Ghost Writing

When I think about ghostwriting, my first thought is: Is it a paranormal activity or something? What’s in it for the writers if there are ghosts writing everything?  Don’t worry because you’re not alone here. As a beginner, even I thought of it as unusual. But ghostwriting is a prevalent trade, and we’re going to learn more about it in detail.

So, let’s dive into the basics first, and we’ll take it from there:

Table of Contents - Quick Look At What's Inside

What is Ghostwriting?

The good news is there are no ghosts in ghostwriting.

Ghostwriting is writing without credits. Yes, it’s that simple.

So, who takes the credit?

It is usually the client or an industry leader, C-suite executive, or the website owner credited as the “author” of the piece. In other words, the writer becomes a ghost despite being the original creator.

To sum up, we can say that:

Ghostwriting Is Writing Content On Behalf Of The Author.

Who Are Ghostwriters?

Ghostwriters work on projects under the name of another party. From technology experts, celebrities, and VIPs to business executives and politicians, every other business professionals need ghostwriters for content requirements.

In addition to these actual organizations, some ghostwriters work on behalf of other organizations, non-profits, etc.

So What Exactly Is Ghostwriting?

If there are one thing writers long for, it is accreditation. If you’re a ghost, it ought to be a disappointment.

However, there’s a flip side!

Ghostwriting is a well-established practice. Developing a reputation that allows a significant public figure to engage you to write a speech takes years of experience. It may even be a celebrity asking you to write a memoir. This will be cited several times in this article.

Expertise is the primary factor in ghostwriting. Read on to discover the reasons why.

Why Would Anyone Hire A Ghostwriter?

To craft an effective sales pitch, A speech, a presentation, etc., you need a lot of creativity and time. This is a situation where ghostwriters have a chance. Companies like anonymous work in their favor in order to raise the stakes for authenticity.

Ghostwriters manage to rack up a lot of success, more than traditional authors. And, it makes sense. In return for giving away their work, ghostwriters are well paid.

Types Of Ghostwriting Projects

In the professional world, full-time Ghostwriters are those who write books credited to someone else.

In addition, Ghostwriters engage in writing the following content types:

  • Social Media Posts

In addition to professional ghostwriters, there are other freelance and informal ghostwriters:

1. Freelance Ghostwriters

Most of the Ghostwriters are freelance writers. But why do they become ghostwriters in the first place? The reasons are pretty straightforward:

Reason #1 – Freelancers already have a stable income source elsewhere, so they’re willing to concede the accreditation for ghostwriting.

Reason #2 – Ghostwriting is very lucrative and pays well. Since writers get a guaranteed cut and hence helps them get established as a writer.

Reason #3 – Freelance writers who work with content marketing firms hope to secure a big project at some point in time.

2. Executive Assistants And Secretaries

Diplomats, politicians, CEOs, etc., hire assistants and secretaries for speeches, sales pitches, scripts, advertisements, and many more projects. Since they don’t get accredited, they’re titled, informal ghostwriters. 

3. PR Professionals And Firms

Many PR professionals who can afford non-credited work pursue ghostwriting projects to gain employment in a corporate environment.

A lot of corporates draft Ghostwriters to undertake the following projects:

  • Speechwriting
  • Article Writing
  • Media And Press Relations 

A press release is an essential tool for PR folks, and if you want to learn how to write a press release , we have the perfect guide for you.

4. Marketing Team And Managers

People in the marketing team of a company are already well versed in written and communication skills. These in-office employees dabble into ghostwriting projects to get exposure in writing industry-specific content. 

In-office employees take on several content marketing projects like

  • Speeches And Articles On Behalf Of The Company’s Tech Leads
  • Communications For The C-Suite Executives
  • Writing Product Descriptions For The Sales Team

5. Content Agencies

Most marketing firms struggle to produce engaging content consistently on social media, newspaper op-eds, etc. So they outsource to content production agencies.

The ghostwriting deal takes place only after mutual consent. Content agencies run with a full-fledged team of writers who complete the job from planning, research, writing to editing and distribution.

6. Spouses, Friends, And Family Members

Anyone in the family with an interest in writing can become a ghostwriter for the company.

Business professionals who have writers within their network can hire them as ghostwriters. Ghostwriting projects are a welcome break for writers as they gain quality experience.

Also, it is always a bonus to receive referrals from peers and well-known companies.

Why Become A Ghostwriter? – 6 Reasons Why You Should Consider Ghostwriting

Let’s look at six good reasons why you should take a leap into ghostwriting:

1. Good Payscale

As mentioned earlier, a good pay scale is pretty much understood. If writers give up their byline, a good cut is guaranteed.

Ghostwriting can be very lucrative if you have the right customers.

2. Involuntary Style Of Work

If you are an established freelance writer, you are more likely to find ideal clients during times of need.

Involuntary ghostwriting gigs are an additional income source many freelancers choose despite having a regular job. Not only do they get quality work experience, but a good side income as well.

3. Exposure

Your skills can be tested at the expert level with ghostwriting since there’s a high probability your clients are well-versed in whatever they do.

4. Wide Range Of Opportunities

When a ghostwriter becomes established, they can take on multiple gigs simultaneously. But remember that the odds of getting projects are directly proportional to your level of expertise.

5. Steady Flow Of Work

You can keep a steady system of handling all the deals one by one as long as your range of opportunities remains open from different businesses to marketing firms.

6. Accreditations

Although Ghostwriters sign up for an anonymous gig, some authors want their names in the accreditations.

It’s entirely subjective whether the ghost gets the acknowledgment or not, but the practice is wholly mutual and transparent.

Some celebrities and leaders share a minor footnote in their content praising the ghostwriter.

How To Become A Ghostwriter?

There’s no such thing as becoming a ghostwriter. Ghostwriting is a side hustle. It’s the gateway to enter into the world of content writing or to earn some extra cash along the way. Nonetheless, there are lots of ways to get started with ghostwriting. Let’s jump into a few of those ways:

1. Become A Freelance Writer

The experience you gain from working with clients as a freelance writer adds a great deal to your credibility. That, in turn, allows you to attract more clients. This credibility helps you gain access to ghostwriting projects. Since freelancers have an edge in networking, they can land good ghostwriting jobs.

Congratulations if you’re a freelancer! You can take the chances in ghostwriting gigs.

2. Get Into Book Writing (At Least Two)

As a beginner, getting a gig as big as publishing a book can be tricky. Unless you have the exposure to writing big projects like memoirs, e-books you might struggle to land a good deal.

Yes, clients can’t trust you as you are yet to build your credibility, but there’s another thing regarding the pay scale. Considering you’re a newbie, professionals might trick you into an underpaid gig. The huge hours you’ll put in will result in extreme burnout and an underwhelming experience.

3. Start Guest Posting

Guest posting means writing for someone else’s blog or website. It helps you create a niche and get your name out.

Ghostwriting requires experience, and while starting out, it’s tough to get a gig. Hence you can write guest posts to help get your foot in the door.

4. “Ghostwriter For Hire”

You must have come across writers on social media with “Ghostwriter for hire” mentioned in their bios. This helps them expand their readership base to a broader array of writing firms and clients.

You can write, “I am a ghostwriter, specializing in ghostwriting books for hire.” Potential clients find you more easily in the process, and it’s up to you to choose the most suitable prospects. 

Frequently Asked Asked Questions About Ghostwriting Answered

1. does the profile of a writer differ for ghostwriters who don't write books.

Though the job profile is more or less identical, the most significant difference is in the pay scale. In addition, those who write books are considered official Ghostwriters, while others are deemed, informal Ghostwriters.

However, you should have at least two books under your belt before tackling professional Ghostwriting.

2. How Much Do Ghostwriters Earn?

You will earn more or less depending on the type of clients you have.

Blog writers and article writers receive a payment of at least $50 per post on average.

On the other hand, ghostwriters make $2000 to $9000 per book, but the pay-out increases with experience to $30,000 per book or even a lot more.

3. Is Ghostwriting Worth It?

If you’re a freelancer, the answer would be no, as your online presence, as well as credibility, decides your stay in the market. But it could well become a side hustle if you want to expand your writing to the level of book writing.

The demand for ghostwriters is rising as content holds importance to the market and the economy’s globalization. The more transparent and interactive your content is, the more profitable your company will be. Therefore, better pay scale.

For all these reasons, ghostwriting becomes an essential aspect of content marketing strategy for corporate firms.

4. Is Ghostwriting Legal?

I’ll break this down into two subdivisions. These divisions explain under what scenario Ghostwriting becomes illegal, against ethics and standards.

Academic Ghostwriting

As long as you’re not a peddler who gets down to offering perks and payments to get their research papers and assignments done, academic ghostwriting is legal.

Even though it is often shelved under the category of ghostwriting, it violates the universal code of education, i.e., transparency.

So, the authorities have to carry out legal documentation before finalizing the ghostwriting project. Without a legal framework, any ghostwriting remains a shady practice.

Rap Ghostwriting

Another practice that made waves around 2015 was Rap Ghostwriting, in which rapper Meek Mill accused Drake of hiring a ghostwriter for Mill’s song “RICO.”

Ghostwriting has been around for a long time in the rap scene but is often ignored.

Ghostwriters are often unwilling to participate in interrogations to avoid adverse reactions.

There have been several cases where Ghostwriters have not been reimbursed or credited even after signing an agreement.

Natalie Robehmed, an associate editor at Forbes who focuses on media and entertainment, says that rappers use secret scribblers for input. Whether or not credit is given is an untold tale.

She found that every ghostwriter Natalie talked to told similar stories about work released without their knowledge by artists.

Conclusions

The funny thing is it wouldn’t matter whether you built castles out of the royalty or wrote some record-breaking musical numbers. You’d still be a ghost. This is why ghostwriting requires the skills of a selfless writer.

Anyway, ghostwriting is a prevalent practice and an excellent way to get some experience early on. So, have you had any ghostwriting experience? Drop your story in the comments. 

' data-src=

Hey, I'm Samyak! I'm an SEO writer, content specialist, and D2C freelance marketer. I create content to help businesses use content marketing effectively for business growth.I write about content marketing and how it can help businesses ignite their brand power.My goal is to inspire you to innovate, upskill, and improve.

Lessons From The Squid Game For Freelance Writers

Lessons From The Squid Game For Freelance Writers

Web Content Writing Best Practices - How To Write Effective Web Content?

Web Content Writing Best Practices – How To Write Effective Web Content?

Related posts.

How To Write An Awful Blog Post That No One Will Read? 

Write A Comment Cancel Reply

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

  • Features for Creative Writers
  • Features for Work
  • Features for Higher Education
  • Features for Teachers
  • Features for Non-Native Speakers
  • Learn Blog Grammar Guide Community Academy FAQ
  • Grammar Guide

Ghostwriting: 10 Tips on How to Become a Ghostwriter

Hannah Yang headshot

Hannah Yang

Ghostwriting title

You might have heard that ghostwriting is one of the most well-paid writing careers. It’s true—being a ghostwriter can be a lucrative option.

So what exactly is a ghostwriter?

The short answer is that a ghostwriter is a writer whose name doesn’t appear on the final work .

In this article, we’ll give you a rundown of what this industry requires and ten tips on how to get started as a ghostwriter.

What Is Ghostwriting?

What is a ghostwriter, benefits of ghostwriting, 10 tips on how to become a ghostwriter, is ghostwriting for you.

Ghostwriting is the act of one person writing under the name of another person or brand.

Ghostwriting might be more common than you think. For example, the bestselling Nancy Drew series was published under the made-up name Carolyn Keene, but was actually written by a team of ghostwriters working together.

The popular Jason Bourne series was continued under Robert Ludlum’s name until 2017, even though Robert Ludlum died in 2001.

Ghostwriting definition

Ghostwritten non-fiction books include My Side by the English soccer player David Beckham, Profiles in Courage by U.S. President John F. Kennedy, and Living History by U.S. Secretary of State Hillary Clinton.

Clients hire ghostwriters to help them create all types of work, from simple blog posts to full-length novels and memoirs.

Most clients fall into the following categories:

Books written by ghostwriters

  • Bestselling authors whose books are so popular that they no longer have time to write them all on their own
  • Industry leaders (such as business owners and health gurus) who want to share their expertise without needing to learn how to write
  • Celebrities (such as athletes and actors) who want to share their life stories without writing them themselves
  • Bloggers, brands, and businesses that want to post regular content online under their own branding
  • Publishers who want to publish more books based on the notes left behind by bestselling authors who have passed away
  • Anybody who has a great story to tell , but doesn’t have the writing experience to tell it by themselves

People who use ghostwriters

A ghostwriter is someone who writes for a client under the client’s name.

You can think of a ghostwriter as a type of co-author, except unlike a typical co-author a ghostwriter isn’t given public credit for their contributions to the project.

A ghostwriter’s duties might include:

  • Interviewing the client about their vision for the project
  • Reading the client’s notes, outlines, or journals
  • Drafting an article, story, or book using the client’s ideas
  • Revising and polishing a rough draft alongside the client
  • Writing in a style that feels like the client’s voice

Ghostwriting tasks

Why would you want to be a ghostwriter? There are several benefits that might draw you to this career.

Benefit #1: Make Money

Most ghostwriting pays better than general freelancing does.

Clients will often pay a large flat fee upfront, rather than paying you hourly for your time. As a result, you can make a large amount of money very quickly. According to Reedsy, ghostwriters can make a flat fee of $2,000-$70,000 per project.

Fees vary depending on the client. If you can land a ghostwriting gig with a large brand or a well-known author, you’ll probably be on the larger end of that spectrum.

If you’re a freelance writer and you typically set your own rates, you can increase your normal fee by a significant amount in exchange for not attaching your name to your work. After all, you’re charging not just for the writing but also for the credit.

Benefits of ghostwriting

Benefit #2: Build Relationships

Ghostwriters get to work closely with their clients. You might have long conversations together about the project you’re collaborating on. If you’re working on a memoir or autobiography you might even get to read your client’s journals.

Building these close client relationships can give you a strong professional network. Past clients might call on you again in the future or refer you to other people they know who need a ghostwriter.

Benefit #3: Learn About Interesting Topics

Ghostwriting gives you the opportunity to cover interesting topics you might not otherwise get to write about, and to learn things about those topics from an insider’s perspective.

Whatever your field is, you can learn a lot about it by ghostwriting.

For example, you can learn a lot about the tech industry and how it functions if you ghostwrite a memoir for a Silicon Valley engineer. You can learn a lot about the publishing industry if you ghostwrite a novel for a bestselling author.

Benefit #4: Gain Writing Experience

As a ghostwriter, you can practice your writing skills in a very effective way.

Under the name of a well-known client or brand, you’ll be able to reach a wide audience very quickly and see how they react to the way you write. This will make you much better at the craft if you decide you want to build your own brand later on.

It can be helpful to practice writing something you’re not emotionally involved in because you’ll have a clear perspective about the work’s strengths and weaknesses. That way, you can develop editorial skills which will also serve you well in the future.

Ghostwriting allows you to hone your craft without spending time on the other duties that come with creating your own work, such as marketing and publishing. All these tasks are left to the client while you can move straight on to your next project.

It can be hard to figure out how to become a ghostwriter, especially since the position is one of the least transparent in the writing industry.

Every ghostwriter begins somewhere. It’s just a matter of knowing how to get started.

Here are some tips for breaking into the industry.

Tip #1: Practice Your Writing Skills with Freelance Writing Jobs

The best way to become a ghostwriter is to practice writing as much as you can.

Usually, ghostwriters aren’t amateurs—they’re experienced writers who have created content in their own name in addition to writing for others.

Start by writing in your own voice. Great writing skills will get you noticed by people who are looking for ghostwriters.

One option for gaining writing experience is freelance writing. As a freelance writer, you’ll meet new clients, which will expand your writing network. Writing for clients under your own name will also help to build your credibility because you can demonstrate your writing skills.

If you take on the task of freelance writing, you can use a grammar checker like ProWritingAid to make sure you deliver clear and professional work to your clients.

Another option is blog writing. Blog posts are a great addition to your writing portfolio and can help you develop expertise in a specific topic.

You can also pitch articles to magazines and editors. There are magazines that allow anyone to pitch to them, so keep an eye out for their submission calls. By writing for magazines, you can add some reputable publications to your portfolio.

You can even work on writing books . Many ghostwriting gigs are large projects such as autobiographies, non-fiction books, and novels. Finishing a long work of your own will give you the skills you need to work on one with someone else.

Ways to build a ghostwriting portfolio

Ultimately, if you’re already an experienced writer or author, clients will naturally gravitate toward you when they need a ghostwriter. Building your writing portfolio is a great way to get started.

Tip #2: Practice Different Writing Styles

Ghostwriting clients will expect you to write in a style that sounds like theirs, rather than like your own. If you want to be a ghostwriter, you should practice becoming a writing chameleon.

Some jobs will require you to write in a conversational, chatty voice. Others will require a formal, informative voice. Still others will require lyrical, poetic prose. If you can master multiple styles, you’ll be able to nail all of these future ghostwriting jobs.

One way to work on this skill is to read widely and pay attention to the styles of the authors you read. Practice imitating the styles of your favorite authors.

Pay attention to the specific words and lexicons each author uses, the length of their words and sentences, and the rhythm and flow of their writing. How formal is their tone? How long are their paragraphs?

These exercises will equip you with the skills needed to create work in your client's voice when you need to.

Tip #3: Hone Your Interviewing Skills

To be a great ghostwriter you don’t only need to be a great writer, you also need to be a great listener.

When you land your first ghostwriting job, you will need to familiarize yourself with the project and the client.

You’ll need to have long, deep conversations with your clients about what they’re looking for and what their ideas are for the project.

You’ll need to practice active listening and ask questions about anything that isn’t clear, so that what you write can match up with the client’s vision as closely as possible.

You’ll also need to read everything they’ve written, whether that’s books, articles, or blog posts.

If you can find any jobs or volunteer work that involve interviewing and research, those skills will set you up to be a successful ghostwriter in the future.

Tip #4: Create a Website for Your Ghostwriting Business

When your future clients are considering hiring you, the first thing they’ll do is look you up online.

You want to make it as easy as possible for all your future clients to figure out who you are, what you do, and how to hire you. How do you do that? You create a writer website.

If you’re on a budget, you can start with a free or low-cost website using a platform like Squarespace, Weebly, or WordPress . Later down the line, you can invest in a website designer to make sure your website reflects your brand.

What to include on a ghostwriting website

Make it clear on your website that you’re a ghostwriter for hire. Mention the specific topics you’re experienced at writing about, so everyone can see your brand.

Your website should include some writing samples from your portfolio, such as blog posts or novel chapters. Make sure your samples relate to the type of ghostwriting work you hope to do.

Include a headshot and a short bio so clients can connect with you on a more personal level. You should also include your social media handles, if you have any, and make it clear how potential clients can contact you.

Finally, you can mention the rates you charge or say that rates are available upon inquiry. If you’re a freelance writer you can increase your rates for ghostwriting since you won’t be able to take credit for what you’ve written.

With a clean and professional writer website you’ll be able to reach clients much more easily.

Tip #5: Reach Out to Your Network for Opportunities

Once you’re ready to start ghostwriting it’s time to reach out to anyone you know who might need a ghostwriter.

If you’re an experienced freelance writer you might have a network of clients you’ve worked with in the past. Don’t be afraid to reach out to them and ask how they’re doing, and if they know anyone who has ghostwriting needs.

Even if you don’t have a client network, there are still other people you can reach out to. Maybe you know someone who has a great book idea but doesn’t know how to write it. Pitch your skills to other writers you know, and even to your friends and family.

Tip #6: Pitch Your Ghostwriting Services to Businesses and Brands

It might not seem obvious but many businesses and brands have writing-related needs, even if their services have nothing to do with writing.

At the very least, almost every large company has their own website with descriptions of the company’s services.

Many companies have blogs where they post about their work to attract more customers. Some release their own eBooks to establish themselves as thought leaders within their industry.

So who writes those websites, blogs, and books? Chances are, that’s a perfect job for a ghostwriter.

Start with businesses you’re familiar with, maybe ones you’ve been buying from for years or ones in industries that you have expertise in. Send them an email mentioning that you love their products, and tell them about your ghostwriting services.

Don’t be afraid of rejection. The worst case scenario is that the company says no, in which case you can respectfully accept that decision and move on to the next potential client.

At the end of the day, finding clients can be a numbers game. If you pitch to enough brands with a strong writing portfolio, sooner or later one of them might say yes.

Tip #7: Utilize Social Media

In the age of information, social media is one of the best places to find freelance writing opportunities and that includes ghostwriting opportunities, too.

Update your Facebook profile, Twitter profile, and any other social media profiles to include your ghostwriting skills. Make sure everyone can see that you’re a ghostwriter for hire.

On sites like Twitter, you can search for specific hashtags, such as #ghostwriting and #ghostwriter. Sometimes, people will post opportunities under these hashtags, or stories about their own ghostwriting experiences.

Joining these communities will help give you a foothold into the industry.

Tip #8: Join a Job Board or Publishing Marketplace

There are plenty of websites that offer different writing jobs, some of which include ghostwriting opportunities.

Many job boards don’t explicitly offer ghostwriting gigs, but they offer many freelancing gigs by brands and businesses that might also need a ghostwriter.

Here are some job boards you can consider:

  • All Freelance Writing is a free job board that has fully vetted gigs.
  • Contenta is a job board that tracks companies that hire writers. You can reach out to the companies that have posted ads and ask if they need a ghostwriter.
  • Upwork lets you create a profile and advertise yourself. You can also see the profiles of other ghostwriters and compare your rates to theirs.
  • Freelancer.com is a site where you can bid for freelance writing opportunities.

Where to find ghostwriting jobs

Tip #9: Understand Your Contracts

When you start signing ghostwriting contracts, have a lawyer look at your legal paperwork if possible. Taking that precautionary step will help you protect yourself from any possible legal ramifications.

In some cases, ghostwriting is transparent and the client will make it publicly known that they have a ghostwriter.

In most cases, however, a ghostwriter must sign an agreement not to reveal the project they’re working on or take any credit for the completed work.

Often, contracts will allow you to speak about your projects in general terms so you can tell future clients about your previous ghostwriting experience.

For example, you might be able to say, “I helped a client write a 300-page memoir which hit the New York Times bestseller list.”

Read your contracts carefully, and never share information about your projects publicly if your contracts tell you not to.

Tip #10: Be Patient

Ghostwriting is a job that often takes a long time to pay off.

Don’t worry if it takes a while to make it big! Success as a ghostwriter depends on two factors: luck and preparation. You can’t always control the luck factor. All you can do is make sure you’re prepared for the next time a ghostwriting opportunity comes your way.

How to be a successful ghostwriter

If you’re trying to decide whether being a ghostwriter is the right path for you, ask yourself some questions about what you hope to gain out of it.

First, ask yourself what you want to accomplish as a writer. If you’re trying to build your own platform and writing brand, ghostwriting might not be the right choice for you.

If however you want to make some good money and create a stable income stream, ghostwriting can be a great option.

You should also ask yourself if you have the right personality for ghostwriting.

If you hate the idea of someone else taking credit for your work, or the idea of giving up creative freedom over what style you’re allowed to write in, ghostwriting might be difficult for you.

On the other hand, if you’re very flexible and love collaborating on projects, you might be very successful as a ghostwriter.

Could you be a ghostwriter?

Do you think ghostwriting might be a good option for you? Why or why not? Let us know in the comments.

Now is a wonderful time to be a copywriter. Download this free book to learn how:

Turn Yourself Into a Prosperous Copywriter

Turn Yourself Into a Prosperous Copywriter

With the advent of the internet, the copywriting industry is exploding. content is now seen as critical for all online businesses., this guide breaks down the three essential steps you must take if you think copywriting is the career for you..

ghost writing examples

Be confident about grammar

Check every email, essay, or story for grammar mistakes. Fix them before you press send.

Hannah Yang is a speculative fiction writer who writes about all things strange and surreal. Her work has appeared in Analog Science Fiction, Apex Magazine, The Dark, and elsewhere, and two of her stories have been finalists for the Locus Award. Her favorite hobbies include watercolor painting, playing guitar, and rock climbing. You can follow her work on hannahyang.com, or subscribe to her newsletter for publication updates.

Get started with ProWritingAid

Drop us a line or let's stay in touch via :

Our Programs

ghost writing examples

Publish Your Nonfiction Book

Follow the proven publishing path that has helped thousands of people write bestselling books

ghost writing examples

Author Accelerator

Grow your business, authority, and income with clear a roadmap for bestseller status

ghost writing examples

Publish Your Fiction Book

Bring your story to life with 1:1 coaching, publishing guidance, & an inspiring community of authors

Author Accelerator Fiction

Gain access to the all-inclusive training and support system designed by full-time fiction authors

ghost writing examples

Market Your Book

Unlock the true potential of your book and learn how to consistently sell more copies

ghost writing examples

Author Accelerator Elite

Discover our most exclusive program with done-for-you editing and marketing services to fast-track success

Free Tools & Resources

Free Copy of Published

The proven path from blank page to 10,000 copies sold.

Publishing Path Assessment

Discover which path will be the best for you to succeed in your author goals.

Nonfiction Outline Template

25 pages of pre-formatted material structured to industry standards.

Weekly Live Trainings

Fiction outline template, author dna assessment.

Find out Which Famous Author You Are!

Companies Assessment

Discover which type of company can help you publish!

Character Worksheet

Make your characters feel REAL!

Learn About

Children's Book

Non-fiction.

How to Get An ISBN Number

A Beginner’s Guide to Self-Publishing

How Much Do Self-Published Authors Make on Amazon?

Book Template: 9 Free Layouts

How to Write a Book in 12 Steps

The 15 Best Book Writing Software Tools

What Is Ghostwriting? Everything You Need to Know

POSTED ON Nov 1, 2023

P.J McNulty

Written by P.J McNulty

Of all the types of writing work out there, ghostwriting definitely has the coolest name. There’s just something glamorous and slightly mysterious and edgy about the term ghostwriter. What is ghostwriting? And what is ghostwriting used for?

Ghostwriting is something almost everyone has heard of, but not everyone understands what ghostwriting is. In this introductory guide, we’ll explore exactly what ghostwriting is, the reasons why people use ghostwriters, and the pros and cons to this type of work.

New Call-To-Action

This blog on ghostwriting will cover:

What is ghostwriting: ghostwriting meaning explained.

What is ghostwriting? Ghostwriting is a form of writing where someone writes in the style and voice of another person whose name is attached to the work. The ghostwriter produces the written content for the project but their own author name is never mentioned. Instead, the writing is presented as if it is coming from the person they are writing for.

Sometimes, people are open about using ghostwriters and mention that they have, often in the acknowledgments page or other section of their book. Other times, there is no mention of a ghostwriter being used and readers are left to assume that the person has produced the writing themselves.

Many people think ghostwriting is what happens when you simply write under another person’s name. But ghostwriting is more complicated than that. To give ghostwriting meaning, it requires the ghostwriter to adopt their client’s voice and to get inside their head and see things from their perspective.

Now that you know the basic concept of what ghostwriting is and what it entails, let’s delve deeper and see exactly what ghostwriting is used for.

Why do people use ghostwriters?

There are many reasons why someone might employ the services of a ghostwriter . However, they typically boil down to two major factors:

  • They lack sufficient skill to write a particular project
  • Or they lack sufficient time to write the project

Of course, ghostwriting may be needed due to a combination of the above factors, rather than just one or the other.

One prominent reason for using ghostwriters is when experts in their particular field have ideas to share but fear they lack the skills needed to do them justice. Ghostwriting is what is called for in this case.

Because there is no one-size-fits-all approach to working with a ghostwriter, the role of the client can be hands-on or hands-off.

In a more hands-on situation, the person whose name will be attached to the work will have a high level of involvement in the creation process.

They might supply detailed information for the ghostwriter to work with, such as notes, recordings, interviews, or other source materials.

They might suggest changes as the writing is being carried out and will be very particular when it comes to revisions.

Ghostwriting can also be a totally hands-off situation from the client’s perspective. In such a situation, they supply minimal levels of instruction at the start of the project, such as “write me a book about _____”, and the ghostwriter is then left to get on with the work according to their own judgment and discretion. 

What kind of books are ghostwritten?

Almost any type of book can be produced by a ghostwriter, no matter if it's fiction vs nonfiction . 

However, there are some types of book that are more commonly associated with ghostwriting than others.

One of the most prominent types of ghostwritten book is the autobiography or memoir of a famous person. The best celebrity memoirs are often written by ghostwriters because the celebrities lack the time, skill, or inclination to write their own book but still want to share their stories.

Some famous examples include Prince Harry’s memoir and Donald Trump’s infamous Art of The Deal .

Although nonfiction books such as those mentioned above are some of the most common candidates to be ghostwritten, there are also instances where fiction is produced by a ghostwriter.

Typically, fiction ghostwriting occurs in one of two scenarios.

The first relates to entrepreneurial self-publishers, also known as authorpreneurs . These are people who identify a profitable niche of fiction that seems to be selling well.

In order to release a far greater volume of books than they could on their own, they hire ghostwriters and supply them with material such as outlines and background info as well as a style guide. This allows far more books to be released, resulting in greater revenue for the authorpreneur.

The second common scenario relating to fiction ghostwriting is when a famous writer wishes to capitalize on their brand recognition without having to write an entire book themselves. Some of the most famous examples include James Patterson and Tom Clancy.

Overall direction is supplied by the famous author and the ghostwriter’s output is checked to ensure it has the right voice. However, the famous author is not the one actually producing the work. 

Some people frown upon the use of ghostwriters in fiction, but there’s nothing wrong with it in truth. Ultimately, readers care about a high-quality book that satisfies their expectations. The specific fingers that typed out the words is less important.

  What are the pros of being a ghostwriter?

Perhaps you find the idea of becoming a ghostwriter appealing and want to try it out for yourself.

While there’s definitely a wide range of ghostwriting work available, it’s important to have a realistic notion of the process and what it entails. This ensures you don’t go into it blind or with an unrealistic notion of what being a ghostwriter entails.

Some of the main pros to being a ghostwriter include:

  • The ability to write without the self-judgment that comes with having your name attached to the work.
  • The chance to write in different styles , voices, and genres that you never otherwise would if you stuck to projects published under your own name. 
  • The wide range of ghostwriting work available, in both the fiction and nonfiction realms.
  • Typically higher rates of pay than if you carried out a similar project under your own name.

There’s no denying there are plenty of pros associated with being a ghostwriter. However, before you make the decision to give it a go, consider the downsides as well and weigh them up against the advantages to have a balanced perspective. 

Does becoming a ghostwriter have drawbacks?

As mentioned, ghostwriting has its drawbacks. Some of the most common downsides to ghostwriting work include:

  • A loss of creative control
  • The inability to write in your own voice
  • No chance to build your career and platform in your own name
  • The necessity of a great relationship with your client

No type of writing is perfect and ghostwriting is no exception.

To understand what ghostwriting is like, you should speak to real ghostwriters and get a feel for what their experiences have been.

Finally, nothing beats trying it out for yourself. Why not commit to a small ghostwriting project and get hands-on experience to see if it’s the type of work you enjoy?

Should you use a ghostwriter for your next book?

Let’s end by considering one final question – is it a good idea to employ the services of a ghostwriter for your next book?

If you’re writing your first book, we highly recommend writing it yourself. There’s nothing like the experience of writing a book for yourself and enjoying the satisfaction of the end product. 

However, if you’re approaching self-publishing more from a business perspective, you could consider working with a ghostwriter. A prime example would be if you’ve identified a fiction niche you believe to be profitable but don’t have any real interest in writing it yourself. In that case, ghostwriting is what is called for.

Just make sure to do your homework and hire a ghostwriter with a good reputation. Ideally, they will have a track record of positive results related to projects similar to the one you have in mind. Just because someone has succeeded at ghostwriting in one area doesn’t mean they will in another.

So, there you have it. Hopefully by now you have a thorough understanding of what ghostwriting is and what ghostwriting is used for.

Whether you want to try your hand at ghostwriting, or hire a ghostwriter for your next project, we wish you every success.

ghost writing examples

FREE EBOOK & AUDIOBOOK

The proven path from blank page to 10,000 copies sold

Related posts

Uncategorized

HelloBooks Review: What Is It and How Does It Work?

Books about branding: 15 classic titles & takeaways, travel book types (for aspiring travel entrepreneurs).

Make a Living Writing

COACHING + PUBLISHING

ghost writing examples

FORMATTING + DESIGN

ghost writing examples

FREELANCE COMMUNITY

  • Ghostwriting 101: What You Need to Know

Jackie Pearce

This article covers the basics of ghostwriting (Ghostwriting 101), the specific skills you’ll need to succeed in this niche, and general tips to make sure your projects are successful.

What is ghostwriting, types of ghostwriting projects, why do people hire ghostwriters, skills ghostwriters need, 1. ghostwriters need to be able to write in someone else’s voice, 2. ghostwriters must leave their ego at the door, 3 steps for a successful ghostwriting project when working with clients, tips for being a successful ghostwriter, ghostwriting 101: how to become a ghostwriter.

Have you ever wished there was a Ghostwriting 101 course where you could learn what ghost writing articles is all about and learn how to be a successful ghostwriter?

Well, this isn’t a course but it’s the next best thing! We’ve taken common questions about this mysterious term and answered them all in one place!

Funny meme from the Sixth Sense with the little boy instead saying "I see ghostwriters"

Since this is Ghostwriting 101, we’re going to keep it simple. Ghostwriting is when you’re writing as someone else. You write the words and someone else gets the author credit.

At some point, you’ll come across ghostwriting gigs. You might be wondering what they entail, how they work, and if they’re worth pursuing while you’re building your writing career .

The most well-known ghostwriting projects are CEO business books or celebrity memoirs , but there are many more applications for ghostwriters, such as articles, social media posts, ebooks, etc.

While there are many more types of ghostwriting projects, here is a starter list of things you may be asked to write as a ghostwriter:

  • Social media content
  • Blogs and articles
  • Video scripts
  • Case studies
  • White papers

There are two many reasons people hire ghostwriters: skill and time.

For example, if you know you want to write a book but you also know you don’t have the skills, then a ghostwriter may be a good investment! The professional can tell your stories and experiences without you having to perfect your writing skills.

Another reason people hire ghostwriters is because they don’t have the time to write . Putting words on a page seems simple, but it can be a time-consuming task. Hiring a ghostwriter can save time while also benefitting the individual or company by producing on-brand content.

While writers have general skills that can be applied in many ways to a variety of different projects, there are some ghostwriter-specific skills that you’ll need to know.

On the surface, it might sound easy to write as someone else and imitate their voice, but it’s a difficult skill to master. Most writers spend years developing their unique voice and style, so when it’s time to write as someone else it might take some re-learning.

If you write fiction , you might be used to changing voice because of the different characters you create, but other writers might need to sit and practice this before they take on a ghostwriting project.

This might not sound like a skill but the simple fact is, you need to accept that you won’t get credit for your writing when you’re a ghostwriter . Sure, you can possibly add it to your portfolio, but the finished piece will not have your name anywhere on it.

For example, if a book becomes wildly successful, the credited author will almost always become more famous than you will. You need to be OK with someone else getting the credit for your writing in order to succeed as a ghostwriter.

Some writers aren’t comfortable with this arrangement. If not, then ghostwriting isn’t an optimal career path for them.

While we have an in-depth post on how to get started as a ghostwriter, this post is keeping things higher level (which is why it’s Ghostwriting 101 and not Ghostwriting the Complete Guide).

First, you’ll want to have a thorough interviewing process for learning your clients’ voice.

In the best-case scenario, the person you are writing for has lots of content online for you to read or watch so you can learn their voice. You’ll want to make a note of certain words and phrases they use and how they view the world.

Second, you’ll want to then focus on making the project outline clear.

You don’t want to end up writing a mini novel when the client simply wanted a whitepaper to use for their business. The client might not know what they want, so you’ll have to guide them to keep both of you on the same page.

Third, you’ll want to know the goal of the project you’re working on.

Is it to establish them as a thought-leader? Do they want to use your work to get clients? Are they going to use their book to get speaking opportunities? When you know what the goal is, it’s easier to help formulate and shape your project.

Before you begin any ghostwriting project, take time to study other work in your clients’ industry to learn what is already out there. This will help you develop a unique piece that stands out and doesn’t just repeat what everyone else is doing.

Create a voice guide and formatting guide for each project.

A voice guide is similar to a brand guide in the fact that you have a go-to list to pull from when you’re trying to guide your voice and your sentence structure.

A formatting guide will prevent any sentences from having a weird flow or structure.

Read your writing aloud .

When you hear it your writing read out loud, it helps you identify repetitive words, change in tone or voice, and many other common issues. There are also programs, which will read aloud to you such as Microsoft Word and Google Docs .

Get feedback.

If you’ve been writing for the same client for a while, it will be easier to write in their voice. But until then, make sure you ask for feedback often to make sure you’re on the right track.

Receiving as much guidance as possible early on will save you both time and energy overall and lead to a better project.

There are a few basic steps freelance writers follow before they decide to try ghostwriting.

In the beginning of their freelance careers, writers often apply everywhere and to every job posting available. It can be hard to figure out where to go to find good clients or sites to write for, so there’s a lot of trial and error in this stage.

If this describes you, the Freelance Writers Den can help. We have an entire bootcamp/mini-course on this topic and it’s yours as long as you’re a member of the Den. We also have this page with market lists to help you get started.

Your Shortcut to Success. Freelancewritersden.com

From there, writers hopefully, eventually find a handful of quality clients they like to work for and either have some kind of ongoing or retainer agreement to create consistent, ongoing work.

During this time, it’s common for writers to start niching down and find topics or industries they prefer to write about. This also helps with finding clients as you know exactly what type of clients you like to work with.

If this sounds like you—or you’re on this path—the Den2x Coaching program can help.

FWD.Den2x

  • Related: Den 2x Success Stories

Once a freelance writer has a niche or writing style mastered, they often find ghostwriting jobs coming to them, since they are actively networking with people and known for writing in a specific industry.

Potential clients and companies might also stumble across a freelance writer’s writing and reach out to see if they can write for them too.

From there, most freelance writers either decide to go all-in on ghostwriting, or take a job as an in-house writer somewhere.

Have you been a book ghostwriter and are looking for more opportunities? Email us at [email protected] .

Previous Post

How to Write Perfect Love Poems (+ 5 Great Examples to Inspire Your Heart and Mind!)

Smart Goals Ideas for Creative Writers (+ 2 Smart Goals Examples)

Related Posts

How to Land White Paper Writing Jobs with Huge Pay

How to Land White Paper Writing Jobs with Huge Pay

One of the biggest moves a freelance writer can make to earn more is to move into better-paying types of work, like white paper writing jobs.

Freelance Rate Calculator: Figure Out What To Charge

Freelance Rate Calculator: Figure Out What To Charge

When it comes to starting out as a freelance writer, it can be hard to figure out what to charge. You will probably see pricing options all over the map and it can be confusing to navigate. Using a freelance rate calculator can help you cut through the noise, decide...

3 Simple Ways to Find Better-Paying Freelance Writing Clients

3 Simple Ways to Find Better-Paying Freelance Writing Clients

If you want to start landing well-paying freelance writing jobs, you probably need to do two things. Here’s what you need to know.

  • International edition
  • Australia edition
  • Europe edition

How to write a modern ghost story

W e don't believe in ghosts, so writing ghost literature for a modern readership presents particular challenges. How does one write for an audience that is cynical, yet still wishes to be terrified? What exactly is a ghost, anyway?

We live in an age of reason, a more secular culture than that of those great ghost writers, the Victorians; we rely on the proofs and disproofs of science, psychology and medicine, on the digital recording of much of our lives. We live in brightly illuminated rooms on streets devoid of the terror of something moving just outside the lamp light. Wraiths don't tend to show up on CCTV cameras, holograms are explicable phantoms and we all know what Freud made of ghosts.

It was only after I was approached to write a novella with a supernatural aspect that I realised all my novels are haunted: by the past, by desire or by guilt. And so it took only a small shift to see that I could take this one step further. The ghosts should not be visible – at least not in any straightforward way. Who can forget Peter Quint standing outside the window in  The Turn of the Screw ? He is always at one remove: behind glass, or in the distance on a tower, just as his companion Miss Jessel is glimpsed on the other side of a lake. While writing Touched , it felt important to me that unexplained presences were not the walking dead, but were just perceived as sounds, scents or misidentifications; at most, they are reflections, or reported sightings, or something captured in the split second of a film still. As Roald Dahl boldly claimed: "The best ghosts stories don't have ghosts in them." And, as Susan Hill says: "Less is always more."

The contemporary writer must trade on the power of anticipation, on the unnerving aspects of less obvious settings than candlelit wrecks in fog. I sought brightness for my unease: brilliant green grass and relentless sunshine, so the glimmer in the trees, the hint of eyes in a window, were all the more unexpected. Perfection can be eerie. The power of a ghost story lies in what is feared beneath the surface of the narrative, terrors glimpsed or imagined in the cracks, rather than what leaps out of the shadows.

Form is an issue. Novels are far more popular than short stories, but there are very few full-length ghost novels because of the difficulties of sustaining suspension of disbelief. Even in ghost writing's heyday, it was the short story – by Dickens , HP Lovecraft , Charlotte Riddell – that was the dominant form, while the longer classic of the genre, The Turn of the Screw , is only 43,000 words. Readers need to be in a state of tension for the unfathomable to prey on fearful minds, yet this can be maintained by the writer for a limited time without risking nervous exhaustion.

There is a fine balance between the psychological and the spectral. Ghost writing must involve a blurring between reality and madness or projection. So Sarah Waters's doctor in The Little Stranger slowly reveals himself to be an unreliable narrator; the protagonist of Charlotte Perkins Gilman's The Yellow Wallpaper is either insane or accurate. The theory that the Governess in The Turn of the Screw may be a neurotic fantasist began when Edmund Wilson wrote his Freudian psychopathology interpretation in 1934, though I believe that James did not intend this. The dead Rebecca of Daphne du Maurier 's novel skews the narrator's mind as powerfully as if she had appeared thumping round Manderley. The modern ghost writer inherits a tradition of unreliable narrators, vastly ramped up by later psychoanalytic thinking. I found it interesting to subvert this by writing about apparent madness, in a girl who insists on dressing as a shabby Victorian, while the real chaos lies where no one is looking.

Endings can be a problem. It is paramount that narrative demands are satisfied, yet what explanation can there be? Ghost writing is in many ways the opposite of crime or detective fiction, whose worlds are more logical than real life – you find out who did it – whereas the supernatural can have no straightforward point of revelation to work towards. So there is a necessary ambivalence. I firmly believe in tying up narrative strands, so while every human story must be followed to its conclusion, the reader must be left plot-satisfied but intentionally uneasy, the paranormal at play in the margins.

If visions and voices are rationally explained, it's not a ghost story; if they're not, incredulity can set in. And again, Freud's influence can muffle the shivers: if a ghost is a mere psychological delusion, the gleam of the supernatural is dulled. Apparitions cannot be mere symbols, metaphors or projections: the characters, however warped, must experience them as hauntings, the reader on side.

The conventions of traditional ghost stories are there to play with, and, for the modern writer, there is pleasure to be had in hidden rooms, with resistant houses and barely heard sounds. Tropes can be ignored or upended, and chilling child patterings and mysterious stains are an enticing part of what Henry James called "the strange and sinister embroidered on the very type of the normal and easy".

This is an era conversant with extreme horror and increasingly successful crime genres, with console games that scatter images of blood on the screen. Yet we still seem to desire less definable hauntings in the form of the gothic, vampiric and ghostly. France leads the way, with its hit supernatural series Les Revenants , while ghost writer Marc Levy is now the most read living French writer in the world. The truth is an audience can be deeply scared by the very phenomena they don't believe in, haunted as they are by childhood reading or by that primal fear of the noises outside the cave. Or, worse – inside it.

Above all, ghost writing is about atmosphere. The mood and resonance, the sounds, scents and tense awareness that here is a place where anything could happen. Even the most sceptical can be seduced by it. What has always appealed to me is the modern gothic, the unsettling and even the unsavoury in literature. It's the glimmer of another presence that lies just outside our normal understanding that intrigues.

  • Horror books
  • Point of view
  • Creative writing

Comments (…)

Most viewed.

All courses at ₽690 each

  • Join for Free

ghost writing examples

What Is Ghostwriting and What Does a Ghostwriter Do?

  • by @amy.mcgregor

Everything you need to know about ghostwriting and a few tips if you're interested in becoming a ghostwriter yourself

If ghostwriting conjures up haunting visions of phantoms armed with pen and paper, fear not! There’s nothing scary about it. Ghostwriting is simply the term used to describe any text that is written by one person, but officially published under the name of another. In other words, the real author is invisible, or a “ghost”, whose name won't appear next to the piece of writing in question.

As a profession, it is surprisingly diverse. Wherever there is a need to create high-quality written material, there may be a ghostwriter behind the scenes, whether it’s literary or journalistic works, autobiographies, speeches, or memoirs. In fact, ghostwriting also occurs in other creative fields, such as music. One example is Mozart, who was famously hired to ghostwrite music for wealthy patrons.

Ghostwriting conceals the name of the author (illustration credit: Maja Dabek for Domestika).

Why do we need ghostwriters?

There are many different reasons why you may need to hire a ghostwriter. The most obvious one is to achieve a higher standard of writing than you alone are able to produce.

Perhaps the most common example of this comes in the form of celebrity autobiographies. While a celebrity may be extremely talented in their own line of work, be it acting, dancing, or singing, they're not necessarily born writers and may find it a challenge putting their thoughts onto paper. They may turn to the aid of a professional writer to tell their story, while still keeping their own name on the book cover for marketing and publishing purposes. A skilled ghostwriter will be able to adapt their voice to whoever they are writing for, as well as know how to write what sells.

Another reason is time. Imagine, for example, that you're the busy CEO of a company or even a politician. With such a packed agenda, it’s unlikely you’ll have the time to write all your own material such as speeches, press releases, or other official correspondence, so you may hire a person or team of people to do it for you.

Even authors do it...

Believe it or not, even authors hire ghostwriters. This may be because they have a great idea, but need help developing the plot because they are still relatively inexperienced writers themselves, or due to time restrictions. Ghostwriters are often skilled and talented authors in their own right, so will be able to give valuable input and expert opinion as well as bring the discipline needed for such a large-scale project.

Some professional authors will also use ghostwriters (illustration credit: Maja Dabek for Domestika).

Are you interested in becoming a ghostwriter?

If you are a talented writer and thinking about becoming a ghostwriter, here are some useful points you may want to consider before deciding if it's the right profession for you:

Taking credit for your work While some patrons are happy to mention their collaboration with another writer, you must be prepared to accept that you will not be able to take the credit for most - if not all - of your work, no matter how many hours you have spent on it or how proud you are of the outcome.

Finding your area As writing is such a varied discipline, it is unlikely you will be skilled in every single field, so narrowing it down to the areas you have experience in is a key consideration. For example, if you're not a published author yourself, it’s unlikely that you will be commissioned to ghostwrite a novel. Instead, choose an area where you already have plenty of examples to build an impressive portfolio and reach out to network with potential clients.

Ghostwriters generally aren't credited for their work (illustration credit: Maja Dabek for Domestika).

Payment As a general rule, the more experience you have, the more money you are likely to make, especially if you have worked on some high-profile pieces. But no matter how big or small your commission, you should always do your research to find out how much you should be charging as well as make sure that there is some kind of written contract in place specifying what you are expected to deliver and how much you will be paid for it. (Remember: you are not getting any credit for this work, so there must be a financial reward.)

Self-discipline Any freelance creative is expected to meet their client’s expectations in terms of timing and quality, and ghostwriting is no different. You will be hired because you have the skill and expertise in a given area, but do you have the self-discipline and stamina to stick to an agreed timeline and meet your deadlines? Bear in mind that some projects, such as a novel, may take years to complete.

Ghostwriting can be a lucrative business, but it takes time (illustration credit: Maja Dabek for Domestika).

A business mindset To be a successful ghostwriter, you need to think and act with a business mindset . This means dedicating time to building a network of contacts who will help you get your next gig, researching the kind of prices you should be charging, managing project timelines, and marketing yourself and your skills in the right way to the right people.

If you are interested in pursuing a career as a ghostwriter, it takes time and effort to perfect your craft, establish yourself in the field and gain a reputation in the world of ghostwriting, but there are lucrative projects out there and opportunities to make a successful career in the field if you are ready for the challenge.

You may also like: - 7 Online Writing Courses for Crafting Great Stories From Scratch - 7 Free Online Tutorials to Help You Reinvent Your Creative Career - 10 Essential Online Creative Writing Courses for 2021 - Memoir Writing: Write a Personal Story for a Universal Audience , a course by Courtney Maum - Creative Writing for Beginners: Bringing Your Story to Life , a course by Shaun Levin

Nathan Ams

Recommended courses

Reading for writing. Writing course by Maria José Castaño Dávila

Reading for writing

A course by Maria José Castaño Dávila

Reading is a crucial ability for any writer. Improve your reading to improve your writing.

Copywriting for Social Media. Marketing, Business, and Writing course by Paul Anglin

Copywriting for Social Media

A course by Paul Anglin

Learn how to write effective copy to attract and engage your brand's audience

  • 98% ( 1.3K )

Writing a Novel Step by Step. Writing course by Cristina López Barrio

Writing a Novel Step by Step

A course by Cristina López Barrio

Learn the keys to writing a novel and stimulate your imagination with practical exercises that connect you with your inner world

  • 98% ( 2.4K )

Get Domestika's news delivered to your inbox

  • Follow Domestika

All Freelance Writing

Ten Ideas for Ghostwriting Samples

There are two questions that come up more than any other when I talk to writers about breaking into ghostwriting. The first is: how do I get clients? The second is: how do I show them samples of my work if everything I do is confidential?

I find these questions frustrating, because you definitely already know the answers to them. No, really, you do. And once I cover them here, you won't necessarily be any further on your way to successful ghostwriterville.  In fact, you’re likely to be in the same place you were before I answered them.

But sometimes we all need to be told that we're on the right track with our business, so I look at this as taking some time out for reassurance. After we take care of that, we can get into what makes a kick-ass ghostwriter, you know, kick-assy.

Six Non-Fiction Sample Ideas

  • Use the same clips for ghostwriting as you’ve been using for non-ghostwriting. Generally speaking, even if these are article, newsletter or whitepaper samples rather than book samples, it'll be enough for clients to decide whether your style/approach works for them.
  • Create new material for the sole purpose of acting as a sample. Sometimes, clients with book projects want to actually see a sample book you’ve completed. When I first started ghostwriting, I pulled out an old non-fiction book that I wrote back in 2009. I'd unpublished it because the content needed to be updated, but it still worked for a sample.  You may have the same sort of stuff tucked away in a hidden file on your hard drive. Even a book that you haven’t finished can be used as a sample that's a few chapters long. One note on creating works  for samples: make sure you get these edited and proofed just as you would any piece you were planning on publishing or turning in to a client. Polish 'em up, format them nicely, and make them shine.
  • Put a blog on your site to help establish your authority. We writers think clients want to see clips solely in order to judge our ability, but often it’s more about building trust. If you only have a couple of writing samples to share, the blog offers you another way of showing your authority, dependability and experience.
  • Let your marketing materials do double duty. Many writers give away free white papers, guides and reports as a way of marketing. You can use these same items as samples.
  • Write a book to publish under your name. Do you have anything of value to say in a book that you can publish under your own name? Of course you do! Not only would that make a great sample for clients, it can also give you valuable experience while creating a passive income.
  • Start a newsletter. I’m not a big proponent of newsletters on a writer’s site, but if you’re looking for a way to show you can create a longer work in a cohesive manner, that could be your solution.

Four Fiction Sample Ideas

As a disclaimer, while I do write fiction under my own pen names, I’ve only done a small amount of fiction ghostwriting for clients. I’d love to do more, but it’s not where my marketing focus is. I’m going to share with you what, in my limited experience, helps score these fiction ghostwriting gigs.

  • Your non-fiction samples. You and I know that not every writer who writes non-fiction well can transition into fiction. It’s a completely separate discipline. But sometimes, clients who hire ghostwriters don’t realize that and will judge ability based solely on non-fiction samples. Obviously, you’ll want to show a range of voices and maybe stay away from any academic/formal samples.
  • Write some short stories for the purpose of having samples available. You can even publish them so that you generate an additional income—just make sure that you segregate pen names if you have some content that wouldn’t please your non-fiction clients or that you simply want to keep quiet/private
  • Create a web serial on a blog. Web serials are fun, challenging, and relatively straightforward. They also give you continually fresh content, making them a very compelling sample. If you choose to do this, you must set a predictable schedule and stick to it. If you aren’t sure that you can commit, post some standalone shorts on your blog instead because an unfulfilled serial is going to make you look undependable to clients. As always, make sure anything you’re going to show as a sample has been formatted, proofread and, for fiction especially, edited so that it really is your best work.
  • Submit shorts to magazines. Some clients will be especially attracted to this as having been published in a magazine (or by a book publisher) validates your talent. I’m not saying that’s objectively necessary or even important, but it could matter to some clients.

Okay, my fingers are tired, so it’s your turn. What do you provide clients for samples when everything you do is a secret?

Profile image for Yo Prinzel

6 thoughts on “Ten Ideas for Ghostwriting Samples”

I’m thankful that my ghostwriting client allows me to use samples of the work I do for her. However, I ‘black out’ certain aspects such as her name and the name of her business.

Another tip is to collaborate on a book project. I did this, and I am happy I did. I’ve given the book away to clients, and it’s received good reviews on Amazon.

I hope everyone had a Happy Thanksgiving 2013!

I hope you had a wonderful Thanksgiving too Amandah!

Thanks Amandah–hope it was good for you too! One note on the use of ghostwritten work for samples, I would be wary of this while Google is trying to scan all books in, since a devoted person could copy/paste what’s legible in the sample and possibly come up with the source document/book name–but I may be doing a bit of a Chicken Little thing with that thought process. I’ll just head back over to my fallout shelter now and go through my bug-out bag once more 😉

I have a couple of clients… three now I think… they let me talk about ghostwriting their books on my pro site… and they are happy to give me recommendations… which is nifty.

Yo, thank you for the tips. How about mentioning where you’ve ghostwritten? For example you can ask for permission from clients to simply mention them in your portfolio page but not give further details. They may be okay with that. Perhaps even a hyperlink to the site may help, or even better a logo. Any little thing helps. It doesn’t hurt to ask.

Good ideas Alma. 🙂

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

akadem-ghostwriter

  • Our Services
  • How We Work
  • Phone: +1-770-651-0002 Toll-free 24/7

Unleash Your Writing Mastery With Great Ghost Writing Examples

computer science essay examples

Our Best Examples of Ghostwriters Work to Inspire You

Academic writing is the proficiency in expressing and justifying one’s thoughts by means of a short but sufficiently convincing scientific text. Still, not everyone can cope with such a task effortlessly. Simply having knowledge is not enough; it requires a skill that a ghost writer certainly possesses. Ghostwriting professionals in their field remain behind the scenes while fulfilling the most daring goals, bringing other people’s ideas and requirements to life with words.

If you need help, lack inspiration, and have no idea how to start writing, we have many ghost writing examples to check out. This way, you will understand what is expected from you, get new ideas, and familiarize yourself with the quality of our ghost writer services.

You won’t know who is behind the job on the various projects, but the brilliance of what is written speaks volumes. Ghostwriting examples cover the works from 50+ subjects, so you clearly see that we strive to understand each client and take into account their point of view, thoughts, and ideas. The ghost writer you choose will adapt the text to your style & tone and convey your vision.

Why to Check Out Our Ghostwriter Examples

Are you ready to inspire yourself to work and succeed? Well, prepare for a journey through the world of perfect ghost writer examples. Each essay, dissertation, assignment, and research paper you will find in our ghost writers’ collection is carefully thought out and meets the highest standards of academic work.

If you need a kind of beacon to help you understand the complexities of a subject, present convincing arguments, explore uncharted areas of knowledge, or immerse yourself in cutting-edge writing methodologies, examples of ghostwriting are what you so desperately need right now.

If you want to surpass the mundane, outperform your competitors, take your academic achievements to new heights, and not just turn in a mediocre paper, do not pass by our ghost writer samples. Read them individually, awakening your curiosity. This will help you achieve something more in your scientific efforts. Let these ghostwriting masterpieces be your guide, and we will help you – expert ghost writers are just a few clicks away from your perfect paper!

Example of Ghostwriter is Your Way to Academic Perfection

We have mentioned academic integrity many times and understand there is a lot of controversy surrounding ghostwriting services. However, if you choose a ghost writer who does their work with quality, you will be able to avoid unnecessary hassles, worries, and concerns. That is why we offer you free ghost writing samples – we only want our relationship to be built on trust so you see the quality of ghostwriting work and become the next satisfied customer.

Take a Closer Look at Ghostwriting Samples Online

Every our ghost writer strives to jump over their head, even if it’s their thousandth work. Check out each sample and ensure you can entrust your project to us.

  • Psychology Literature Review Example

Unlike a bibliography or a reference page, a lit review involves an extensive analysis of resources and determining their usefulness in your research activities. This ghostwriting sample allows you to explore how an expert ghost writer identify correlations, contradictions, gaps & inconsistencies, how they develop solid arguments, and suggest further steps to solve the particular research problem.

  • Assignment Sample

In the introduction of an assignment, a ghost writer helps the reader understand their goals, methods, and observations. In the main body, they outline the arguments and try to reflect critical thinking on the issue and the chosen order of the arguments. At the conclusion, the ghostwriting pro summarizes the results, evaluates the ideas, makes recommendations, and predicts changes.

  • Sample Dissertation

A dissertation takes the top place among research papers, so all the requirements provided are greatly multiplied. We recommend that you use this ghostwriting example as a sample to study the structure, formatting, and quoting methods. Any resources, arguments, and evidence provided by ghost writers will only be relevant if you have a similar topic.

However, dissertation ghostwriting samples online are good in that they help develop critical evaluation, see how others operate the concepts, how they refer to specific theories, and what ideas they offer.

  • Coursework Sample

There is no topic professional ghostwriting services won’t cope with. Since such a work type requires more time and effort than a regular essay, expert help or a quality example of ghostwriter paper is what you need. Be sure each research is independent and academic, addressing and responding to questions of concern on a chosen topic.

  • Sample Research Paper

All the information compiled in every ghostwriting sample of a research paper was thoroughly analyzed and verified to ensure the outcomes were accurate, precise, reliable, clear, and consistent. The data ghost writers add to the research paper is always double-checked and can be easily provable as we only use accredited scholarly sources.

And How About Some Subject-Related Ghostwriting Examples?

  • Healthcare Essay Example

This ghostwriting sample shows a deep understanding of the biggest issues in healthcare by addressing critical medical topics. We use authoritative sources, employ evidence-based arguments, relate healthcare concepts to real-life scenarios, and try to present medical issues precisely.

Note when constructing sentences, using particular terminology and professional abbreviations of terms, the ghost writer understands the audience they are writing for. When reading, there are no questions, the topic is fully disclosed and understandable.

  • Marketing Essay Example

Thanks to these samples, you can ensure our ghost writers do thorough research, carefully plan, and guarantee a structured presentation of the material. Rest assured, every ghostwriter samples author is versed in current marketing trends and principles and can critically analyze a particular marketing situation or concept, whether it is market research, product development, pricing, advertising, or distribution and sales strategies.

  • Computer Science Essay Examples

The level of knowledge distinguishes computer science essays written by our ghost writers. We avoid superficial explanations and go into detail, attaching relevant examples, case studies, research results, or experimental data from security, computer systems, and networks. Feel free to contact our managers for help if you cannot find examples of ghostwriters work that are relevant to your topic or have visual materials you’d like to implement in your paper.

  • Engineering Essay Examples

A ghost writer easily combines technical details with engaging prose – from managing engineering projects or applying aerodynamics and fluid mechanics to biorobotics. They are familiar with the classification of engineering specialties and can help you choose a topic if necessary.

Some Last Considerations About Ghost Writing Examples

We don’t recommend copy-pasting from ghostwriting examples, as plagiarism may lead to some negative consequences. Most professors check students’ works for originality, so your work must be unique. Ready-made ghost writers’ works are great to see how the finished paper should look, how to structure & format it, what narrative methods & tone to use, etc. Besides, every ghostwriting sample contains references you’re able to use when working on your own paper.

All authors of our ghostwriter examples are verified academics with expertise in theory and practice in their fields. Each of them also has years of experience in ghostwriting, covering a wide range of types of work they can handle. Still, if you lack time or inspiration, the ghost writers of your liked ghostwriting sample can help you individually. Just place an order and wait a little for the unrivaled paper that will make the scientific world shudder.

Looking to publish? Meet your dream editor, designer and marketer on Reedsy.

Find the perfect editor for your next book

1 million authors trust the professionals on Reedsy, come meet them.

Guides • Understanding Publishing

Last updated on Sep 12, 2023

How to Find a Ghostwriter You Can Trust With Your Story

✍️ This post is written by author, editor, and ghostwriter Tom Bromley. He is the instructor of Reedsy's 101-day course, How to Write a Novel .

It’s part of a ghostwriter’s job description to remain in the shadows. But while that discretion might help with the writing of a book, it’s less useful when it comes to tracking down a ghostwriter that you want to work with. 

As a former publisher and a ghostwriter myself, I’ve worked with clients on dozens of different titles, both with traditional publishers and also on self-published works. Each of these projects had different starting points in how that relationship came about. 

In this post, I’m going to draw on this experience to give you my best advice on how to find and select potential ghosts for your book . 

Here’s how to find a ghostwriter:

1. Browse marketplaces and agencies

2. determine the experience you seek, 3. evaluate their previous work , 4. reach out to a few ghosts, 5. get a sample of their writing.

iQmyCgrsR0A Video Thumb

To track a good ghostwriter down in the undergrowth, you’ll need to become a bit of a literary David Attenborough! There are probably five places to start your hunt…

Where to find ghostwriters:

Freelancer marketplaces

Literary agents and publishers, ghostwriting agencies, linkedin and job sites, google search .

Many ghostwriters work for themselves, so a good place to start your search are freelancer marketplaces, such as our one here at Reedsy. The advantage of using such a site is that the list of ghostwriters available is curated or quality checked: at Reedsy, we have strict criteria regarding the freelancers on our books. Each one of them has several years of experience and multiple projects under their belt. 

Screengrab of a marketplace to find ghostwriters

There is also the advantage of working within a pre-established and monitored system with regards to payment and so forth: if there are any disputes, there is a set-up to mediate and resolve them fairly, which you wouldn’t have if you were dealing with the ghost directly.

MEET GHOSTWRITERS

MEET GHOSTWRITERS

Find a ghost you can trust

Your mission? A fantastic book. Find the perfect writer to complete it on Reedsy.

Of course, Reedsy is not the only site that lists freelance gigs. Less experienced ghostwriters can be found on open marketplaces like Fiverr, Upwork, and Mediabistro. It’s worth noting that these less specialized freelancing marketplaces are not as stringent with their vetting and quality control, and you’ll need to bear this in mind when weighing up your options.

The second place to look is via the two main elements of traditional publishing 一 literary agents and publishers. Most literary agents will have a ghost on their books, or at least a writer or two they might try to persuade you would be suitable for a job. The downside here is that the agent is representing the ghost: not only will you have to factor in their fee, but they’ll have their client’s interest at heart. The potential upside is that, if they like your book idea, they may offer to represent it themselves.

Traditional publishers can be another source of ghostwriters. Most publishers will have particular ghosts that they use on a regular basis: if you can speak to a publisher, they may be kind enough to offer a suggestion or two. And if you're very lucky, a publisher might even decide to take the book on themselves.

There are a small number of ghostwriting agencies out there, such as Gotham Ghostwriters, who can also put you in touch with a possible ghostwriter. As with a marketplace, they’ll take care of the business side of the relationship for you, though like a literary agency, remember that they are representing their clients and their interests. Their pool of writers will be smaller than on a marketplace, so you might not have as many options as to whom to work with. 

Another source to find a ghostwriter is through more traditional job sites and websites such as LinkedIn. This casts the net much wider, which could be useful, but will also turn up more irrelevant results, like people ghostwriting in other ways (e.g. speechwriting), which will require more sifting. 

While job sites can be a good place to search, not all ghostwriters will be on there, and unlike marketplaces and agencies, it will include people without any experience who are in search of work. Dealing directly should mean cheaper fees, though you won’t have the backup of a marketplace or agency agreement should things go wrong. 

If all else fails, you can Google! This should probably give the most exhaustive list of these approaches, but the one with the least quality control and the most sifting to do, since you’ll have to go through each individual author’s website .

After you identify your ideal platforms to hire a ghost, consider what kind of background and experience you seek. This will enable you to compile a shortlist of potential candidates. 

A number of ghostwriters I know, including myself, come from an editing background. Some ghostwriters are primarily novelists by day, looking for a side-project to work on whilst tapping away on their magnum opus. Many others start out as journalists with knowledge and contacts in a particular field: a sports memoir is often written by a sports journalist, a business book by a business writer, and so on. 

Three examples of books ghosted by various authors.

These different backgrounds may offer both pluses and minuses for your project. A former journalist might have lots of writing experience and an eye for a news angle but less experience writing books. A former editor will have much more knowledge of structuring a book and will also be invaluable if you want to work on some of the writing yourself, but might not have the same writing credentials. A novelist might be great at dramatizing your story, but may possibly be less skilled at interviewing. So think carefully about which experience best fits the book you want written. 

What will it cost you to hire a ghostwriter?

Find out here! Takes 10 seconds.

The next step is to determine which writing style is most suitable for you.

The best way to check a ghostwriter’s skill, of course, is to dip into a book that they have written. A good writer will usually offer to share a couple of previous books for reference. Have a read of these and have a think about the style of writing. Does this read like someone you want to work with? 

Screengrab of a business and self-help focused ghostwriter's portfolio

Make a note of which publishers the ghostwriter has worked with: that will usually give a steer as to their quality. Look also for relevant experience in your prospective genre. If you are looking for someone to write a memoir , what sort of similar books have they worked on previously? 

That said, not all ghostwriters are immediately forthcoming about which books they’ve worked on. There may be any number of reasons for that 一 for example, they may have signed non-disclosure agreements, which stop them from revealing who they’ve worked with. I’d personally take this discretion as a good sign rather than something to worry about: in a way, those ghostwriters who showcase the books they’ve worked on are sometimes the ones to be concerned about. Would you feel comfortable to see your own book highlighted in a similar way? 

If you can’t find which books a ghost has worked on, simply ask. With my own website , I have no mention of any of my ghostwriting books, but once I am in conversation with a potential client, I will share a confidential document outlining my experience. If possible, it can also be worth asking someone in the business about their skills 一 for example, an editor that has worked with them previously, if you can track them down. 

Now that you have identified the type of profile you’re looking for, it’s time to get in touch. 

Hopefully by now, you’ve been able to fine tune your shortlist. I usually find with projects that there are two or three other ghosts in the bidding: I’d similarly come up with a list of three or four and rank them in order of preference (though don’t necessarily tell the potential ghost that, unless they’re the top of the list!)

🙌When you use platforms like Reedsy to reach out to ghostwriters, you can filter their profiles by genre, language, and area of expertise, and request quotes from five professionals simultaneously.

Screengrab of Reedsy's marketplace showing a list of professional ghostwriters

What happens next is perhaps the most important point in the whole process: meeting the potential ghostwriter for the first time. This is crucial in getting a sense of whether you connect with the ghost and feel that they are someone you can work with. 

Setting up a meeting before you agree on a collaboration is important for both parties: if that connection or chemistry isn’t there, then however experienced the ghost might be, they’re probably not the right fit for you. I’ve come out of these meetings where I’ve both been turned down and also where I’ve turned down the potential client. That’s for the best and when this happens, there should be no hard feelings on either side.

Being a ghostwriter involves building a close and sometimes revealing relationship. I’ve written a lot of memoirs and clients have told me all sorts of secrets over the years: some that end up on the page, others kept between ourselves. A client is only going to give you that information if they feel comfortable and relaxed in your company. Similarly, you’re only going to tell all to a ghostwriter if you trust them completely. Go with your gut here 一 if it doesn’t feel right, then choose somebody else.

⭕ Consider a ghost's comfort level when writing or discussing difficult or sensitive topics. Check out David Wichman’s story about working with an open-minded Reedsy ghostwriter.

As with any interview, turn up prepared to ask the right questions. In particular, ask the ghost about the working relationship. How much time do they have to work on the project? How long will it take them to complete it? Explain how involved, or not involved, you want to be in the process. The ghostwriter will ask questions back 一 when they do, gauge their reaction to the book. Do they sound genuinely interested, or are they going through the motions?

It may not always be possible, but these meetings work best when they are in person. I think you get a better sense of the individual face to face than screen to screen. It’s also a good sign as to how flexible the ghostwriter is if they agree to meet up. If they can only meet on a Zoom call, then they might not be as committed to the project as you need.

Finally, you’ll need a final proof to verify that they’re the right person for the job 一 a sample of their writing applied to your story. 

The final piece in the jigsaw is to see if the ghostwriter can capture your voice. They might talk the talk, but can they capture how you speak and feel on the page? The only way to check that is via a trial session. Depending on your preference, you can ask for a couple of pages or a whole sample chapter. 

A writer holding a page draft

Sometimes this can come from the initial meeting: I’ve done this, where I’ve recorded a short section of an interview to go away and work on. On other occasions I’ve done this via a second meeting or via material presented or available, such as previous interviews and writings. 

This sampling process doesn’t need to be particularly long, and you may need to pay for the ghostwriter’s time, but it is well worth doing. It’ll either give you confirmation that your instinct from the initial meeting is correct, or that you need to go back to someone else on your shortlist.

If everything feels right, you’ve found your ghostwriter! Hopefully they’re as excited about working with you as you are with them. All there is left to do before starting work is to agree on a fee: to help decide that, you might want to take a look at our next post in the guide on the cost of hiring ghostwriters .

Tom Bromley

12 responses

Dennis Briskin says:

18/07/2016 – 21:43

Several things to add: Hire someone you can respect and defer to. You are a first-time buyer, with all that implies. The ghost has sold these services many times before and knows better than you what works for the contract, the book outline and editorial decisions. The ideal is to treat the ghost as an expert collaborator who shares your goals. (Many highly successful and wealthy clients have difficulty being around someone who knows more than they do about something, especially writing, which triggers being back in school with "the smart kids.") "You get what you pay for" if you are lucky. There is no direct correlation between quality and the fee. Comparing writers accurately and fairly is impossible, as are most things involving judgement not measurement. (Superlatives are the worst way to think.) Find someone who appears capable at a price you are willing to pay on a schedule that works for both of you.

↪️ Reedsy replied:

20/07/2016 – 13:34

These are all good tips, thanks for the additions :) "You get what you pay for" tends to be relatively accurate when you deal with experienced professionals, as their fees will depend both on the time they spend on each project, and on the existing demand for their services — both relatively good indicators of their quality and experience. Of course, if you don't go through a curated marketplace like Reedsy but search for ghostwriters on Google, you might end up with someone charging a ridiculous fee while having little ghostwriting experience. But with a bit of due diligence this should be easily avoided.

↪️ Toni Robino replied:

25/09/2016 – 19:45

Hi Dennis, thanks for your comments! I agree. :-)

Laurence O. McKinney says:

24/09/2016 – 01:42

I set up a starting-out writer friend with a bunch of experts to help his first book, but once published, Knopf wouldn't push it. We stayed in touch as he complained bitterly about staying in a hotel, conferencing with a Detroit executive, writing his bio for a flat fee ($40,000 and it took well over a year) and this was what it had come to and we commiserated. Of course that was Iacocca, and Bill Novak went on to ghost Tip O'Neill, Nancy Regan, and The Mayflower Madam - and others. Most writer self-ghost all the time; I think it was Fitzgerald who said writers have a tough time because we fictionalize our pasts so often for one purpose or another we can't always remember the real version.

25/09/2016 – 19:47

Hi Laurence! I have a great deal of respect for William Novak. Most of the ghosts I know have paid their dues in one way or another. I only made $10k each on the first two books I ghosted, with no royalties and one of them is still selling, 20 years later. Live and learn!

betta says:

23/12/2016 – 02:22

great tips here, but really... should ghost writing be that expensive?? $10,000? I hired https://goo.gl/khHpX4 for a far lesser amount and i am proud of what I got. I believe cheap does not necessarily mean poor quality

26/12/2016 – 09:34

I like your article and all the tips are on point. One is always looking for the best.Hiring a professional writer to write for you is not easy. Trust is the key component which cannot be build within a day or two.One should always look for the qualities that a ghost writer should possess being a professional in this particular field. I've recently hired ghost blog writer (Runmyblog.com) for my blog. So far I'm satisfied with their work. One of the best things about their professional blog writers is that they involve me in the process of blog creation from the start which makes it easy for me to comment and share my ideas. The end result is always up to mark.

26/12/2016 – 12:01

Thanks for sharing your thoughts, Noah, and your recommendation for a blog ghost writer.

22/06/2017 – 19:28

Noah, I'm happy to hear that your experience has been positive!

Brian Penny says:

01/08/2017 – 01:27

Why do these articles always focus on ghostwriters for books? Blogs are the way people share information these days, not books. Here's a guide specifically for ghostbloggers: http://thoughtforyourpenny.com/2017/08/the-ultimate-guide-for-hiring-ghostbloggers-ghostwriters-for-your-blogging-efforts/

ghost writingindia says:

10/08/2017 – 11:42

Entirely great post. I just unearthed your blog and needed to state that I have truly delighted in perusing your blog entries. Any way I'll be subscribing to your sustain and I trust you post again soon. for more information regarding ghost writing please visit to us.

Laura B Sherman says:

20/03/2020 – 21:04

You make a lot of really good points. I'm forever trying to tell people that they don't need to meet a ghostwriter in person. Even if I live near the client, we always work via phone and email. It's just much easier. I also really appreciate that you suggest that the client PAY for the writing sample or trial run. That's perfect and a very good solution. Thank you for your article!

Comments are currently closed.

Join a community of over 1 million authors

Reedsy is more than just a blog. Become a member today to discover how we can help you publish a beautiful book.

Reedsy | Ghostwriting Secret Agent B | 2024-02

Looking for a ghostwriter?

Sign up to meet vetted ghostwriters who'll turn your book idea into a reality.

Reedsy Marketplace UI

1 million authors trust the professionals on Reedsy, come meet them.

Enter your email or get started with a social account:

Ghost Writing Example

A personal memoir.

Avatar of Nancy Duci Denofio

John was dressed for school, but this morning, he was hiding behind his bedroom door, waiting for his mother to enter the bathroom. Eugene, John’s older brother, was out of the house, and John had his plans.

He thought about it all night and anxiously stood there waiting to hear the latch, which locked his mother in the bathroom.

A few minutes later, he heard her lock the door and he tiptoed out from behind his door to the cellar door, and down the stairs; so far the plans were going perfectly.

John knew exactly how long he had to uncover his mother’s stash of alcohol then dump the entire contents of Seagram’s Seven down the storm drain.

His eyes, he told me, stared at the liquor flowing in a circular motion down the drain and the liquid made a strange, gurgling noise, as it filtered through the underground pipes. While he emptied the bottles, he remembered repeating to himself, “ she will never have a drink again, she will never have a drink again, and I will be beaten tonight after school .”

John thought at the time he should stay somewhere else that night. He left the empty bottles on the cement floor, quickly, ran up the stairs, turned right, and opened the back door.

ghost writing examples

Finally, he sat down, leaned his head against a stone building that belonged to Saint John of God hospital. He gazed tour with the sky, it appeared to be of the beautiful day the sky, blue, like a robin’s egg. He reached into his pocket and pulled out a bent cigarette, stolen from his mother’s pack, struck a match, and took a deep breath while holding the smoke in his lungs until he couldn’t hold his breath any longer.

This would make a child in the second grade ill, but not John, he was stealing cigarettes from his mother’s pack for at least a year.

At that moment all he could think about was what he would be faced with after school, he would take it, he always did.  John knew we had nowhere else to go and his grandmother lived upstairs, his father has left the family home although his mother was still living. John trusted his grandma and knew she would always be there for him.

John lit a second cigarette, he kept talking to himself, and “ I am already in trouble, so what the heck – another cigarette won’t kill me, but my mother might .”  A seven-year-old dragging on his second cigarette, smashing it with his foot, “The nuns are not going to like the dirt, but, what the hell.”

Dirt looked bad, grass stains were normal for a young boy. He began walking down Summit Avenue.  He quickened his step knowing the nuns had warned him about being late for school, but he knew the principal liked him, they really got to know each other since he spent so much time in the office but he never got kicked out of school.

Each step John took he thought to himself, “ I will never live past today .” Although John swears, he never saw his father drunk, but now when he thinks about it recalls his father staying in bed during the daytime, swallowing a large number of pills , and complaining he could not fall asleep. He never recalled his father staggering like his mother, from alcohol.

John spent a great amount of time living in the house above his, where his grandmother lived. It was his hideaway when things became rough and fights broke out. John and his older brother would climb the stairs and sit on their grandmother’s couch.

I wanted to share with you, as a ghostwriter, a short excerpt of a working manuscript .  This is a true story, soon to be published.  I hope it shows the detail a ghostwriter needs to achieve through months of interviews with the storyteller.  

createyourbook

All writers are storytellers. Nancy recreates the craft of storytelling throughout a single day - as Author. Ghost Writer. Editor. Motivational Speaker.Advocate.Radio Host. Instructor. Seminars on writing and working with groups - both large or small - specifics; presenting, organizing, and getting to know your own voice. Presentation in the business world or for radio or performing. She loves the world of fine art as well.

She spent twenty-five years as a voice coach - defines storytelling and fashions a sentence into many worlds through hearing. After hearing thousands of voices her experience grows within her and she sees it as a vessel traveling through her - as words on paper, voices in the air, or paint on canvas. Writing is the world around us and a personal experience. Nancy knows each day is a highway for a tomorrow. Each voice or word we hear - another story waiting to be told.

"Woman Writer of the Year" Notre Dame College - 1994 - Women in History Month. Nancy writes in several genres – her love is memoir and non-fiction. She explains, in detail, who is around her, who followed her or by closing her eyes the tone for the next sentence or scene. She has been capturing this in her own life through the eyes of her grandmother from the Island of Sicily or listening to her mother who sang about her own mother from the Isle of the green. She would tell you each day, growing up, structured the future as a writer; living with an Irish mother and a Sicilian Grandmother. Nancy completed several novels as a ghostwriter, and will be finishing another this fall - "Cursed Roots." Her time - working on her own memoir - has brought her in several directions through the years - learning more about her ancestors as she dug deeper into a true story - surprising even herself. She believes she has stepped into something bigger than she even knew - as she completes this saga. Although she calls it her memoir - it spans generations from - 1800's to the present day. Some may wonder what could hold a reader's attention? Far too much - so Nancy is considering cutting this story into three parts. Be sure to be on the lookout for real-life - from Sicily to America, enjoy the good and the bad - life never follows the straight and narrow. Nancy began writing as a young girl in the 7th grade - being the only student in her class published and fell in love with free verse. Her first chapbook "Just Another Day" followed by "Grandmother's Bleeding Hearts," and "What Brought You Here?" She has material published in journals and chapbooks, literary magazines since the early eighties. She is ready to publish "Yesterday's Child" - "Did you ever want to fly?" and "A Governor's Wife." Her biggest glory will be to see her biggest challenge, one day in front of her, as she has with her eyes closed - in 3D. She has collaborated and published other novels which are now on the market - if you are interested in those titles do not hesitate to ask. Nancy had the privilege to speak out on health care for those individuals needing it the most in Boston, Philadelphia, Albany, Washington D.C., New Hampshire, and several other destinations. As an advocate, public speaker - motivational both in voice and heart - she made it to the White House. She believes, "When you feel strong enough about something, you never give up." She once had a goal; interview all Presidential Candidates, one on one, and she did - a few lasted over one hour.

She was Honored by President William Jefferson Clinton, for her work on “American’s for Disability Act.”

She spoke on the same stage with the late Senator Edward Kennedy concerning "Save Our Security."

She worked for those who are visually impaired. Volunteered for the Federation for the Blind.

She was a member of the Government Relations Com. for the National MS Society.

Nancy returned to N.Y. after three years in New Hampshire, to Saratoga Springs and she began working on the first Senate Campaign for Hillary Rodham Clinton, in her district. She continued to help when the Senator ran for President. She continues to speak out today. She has kept her eyes on the Clinton Foundation, explaining, their goals match many of my own. And, she is excited to see another chance for a woman to fight for a seat, but not any ordinary seat, knowing it is time America does not judge anyone since we are all equal.

Nancy, born and raised in Schenectady, N.Y., and residing more than half her life in the city of Saratoga Springs. Married, and blessed with two daughters who blessed her with five grandchildren. If you asked Nancy what a normal day would be? She would probably tell you - "One thing a writer has is the gift of time. As I mentioned, storytelling happens all day long - did you see how many people waved leaving the bus on Broadway today? I guess every day is a surprise." She reminds her friends, "an idle mind is for those who have no creativity in their veins." You may one day hear her say, "a mind is a personal cabinet filled with things to do, so don't let them run out."

Lion Survival

My Feelings on a Page

The Impossible

Quotes from Writers to Writers

A Wonderful Year on Angie’s Diary

Avatar of Dan Newland

Nancy, it’s interesting that you have an open enough relationship with your client that he would allow you to bring out part of the story under your own name. In my experience as a ghost, that’s not very common. The client usually doesn’t want the ghost to exist unless the story being told is of the “as told to” kind. Like you, I’ve found that with “autobiographies” you have to really be able to get into the client’s head (and heart) and know how he/she thinks, talks, feels, etc., if the story is to be genuine. One of the drawbacks here is that when you actually put the work down on paper, the client will sometimes be shocked at what he/she has revealed, or that the revelation of their own subconscious will be too much for them and they’ll want to go back and edit out things that are precisely what makes the story authentic and makes it ring true.

Your email address will not be published.

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

This website uses cookies to improve your experience. We'll assume you're ok with this, but you can opt-out if you wish. Accept

  • Artist Spotlight
  • Short Story
  • Beauty & Health
  • Movies & TV
  • Book Review

Welcome, Login to your account.

  • Login with Google

Recover your password.

A password will be e-mailed to you.

Writing Beginner

How to Describe a Ghost in Writing (Tips, Words, Examples)

Writing about the supernatural, and especially ghosts, is a common problem for many writers.

It requires a lot of creativity, an extensive vocabulary, and a good sense of mood and atmosphere.

Here’s how to describe a ghost in writing:

Describe a ghost in writing by using sensory details, creating an atmosphere, conveying the ghost’s personality, using metaphors and similes, and employing vivid language. Reflect the ghost’s character through its appearance, movements, voice, and interaction with the environment.

This article will provide you with all the necessary tools to make your ghostly descriptions spine-chillingly good.

21 Tips for Describing Ghosts in Writing

Cartoon ghost - How to Describe a Ghost in Writing

Here are 21 tips to get you started with describing ghosts in writing.

Tip 1: Use Sensory Details

Using sensory details in your descriptions will make your ghost seem more real to your readers.

Try to engage all five senses – sight, sound, touch, taste, and smell.

Even though ghosts are traditionally intangible, their presence can still evoke sensory reactions in your characters.

For example, the sight of the ghost might be chilling, their voice might echo eerily, or their presence might cause a cold draft.

Engaging the senses of your readers will allow them to immerse themselves in the story more completely.

If your reader can almost feel the chill of the ghost’s presence or the echo of its voice, they are more likely to be affected by the scene and feel the intended emotions.

Tip 2: Use Metaphors and Similes

Metaphors and similes are effective literary tools when it comes to describing ghosts.

They can help make abstract or intangible qualities more understandable and vivid.

For instance, you might say that a ghost’s voice is like a “whisper on the wind,” or that its presence is “as cold as a winter’s night.”

These types of comparisons can not only make your descriptions more vivid.

But they can also help to create a certain mood or atmosphere.

For example, comparing a ghost’s appearance to a “drifting cloud” could suggest a more ethereal, peaceful presence, while likening it to “a shadow in the corner of your eye” might evoke a more unsettling, menacing atmosphere.

Tip 3: Show, Don’t Tell

One of the oldest principles of writing is “show, don’t tell.”

This means instead of telling your reader that a character is scared of the ghost, show the character’s fear through their actions, words, and feelings.

This applies to describing your ghost as well.

Show its eeriness through its actions, its effect on the environment, and the reactions of other characters.

Showing instead of telling creates a more engaging and immersive story.

It gives your readers the chance to interpret the character’s emotions themselves based on the cues you provide.

This makes for a more interactive and fulfilling reading experience.

Tip 4: Use Strong, Evocative Language

When describing a ghost, use strong, evocative language to create a powerful image in your reader’s mind.

This can include adjectives like haunting, ethereal, ghostly, or spectral, or verbs like hover, drift, fade, or glide.

Using this kind of language not only helps to create a vivid picture of the ghost, but it also helps to set the tone of the scene.

The right words can make your ghost seem eerie, menacing, sad, or mysterious, depending on what you’re aiming for.

Tip 5: Describe the Ghost’s Appearance

How does your ghost look? Is it transparent or solid?

Does it have a clear human form, or is it more of a shapeless mist? Does it wear clothes, and if so, from what era?

These are all important details that will help your reader visualize the ghost.

Remember to use sensory details and strong, evocative language when describing the ghost’s appearance.

Also consider how the ghost’s appearance might reflect its personality or backstory.

For example, a ghost who was a soldier in life might still wear their uniform, while a ghost who died tragically young might appear as a child.

Tip 6: Describe the Ghost’s Behavior

Ghosts often have specific behaviors or patterns they follow, like haunting a particular room or appearing at a certain time.

Describing these behaviors can help make your ghost seem more real and add to the creepiness of your story.

Think about why your ghost might behave the way it does.

Maybe it’s trapped in a loop, repeating the events leading up to its death.

Or maybe it’s trying to communicate something to the living characters.

This can add depth and complexity to your ghost, making it more than just a scary apparition.

Tip 7: Convey the Ghost’s Personality

Just like any character in your story, your ghost should have a distinct personality.

Is it vengeful, sad, friendly, or perhaps mischievous?

This will dictate how it interacts with the living characters and what kind of atmosphere its presence creates.

A ghost’s personality can be revealed through its actions, its dialogue, its appearance, and its effect on the environment.

For example, a vengeful ghost might create an oppressive, menacing atmosphere, while a sad ghost might cause a feeling of melancholy to descend on the scene.

Tip 8: Use Symbolism

Ghosts often symbolize something, like a character’s guilt or a past event that still haunts them.

Using symbolism in your ghost description can add a deeper layer of meaning to your story.

Symbolism can be conveyed through the ghost’s appearance, behavior, or the circumstances of its death.

For example, a ghost that always appears in a mirror might symbolize a character’s struggle with self-image or identity.

Tip 9: Describe the Ghost’s Death

The circumstances of a ghost’s death often play a big role in its behavior and appearance.

Did it die a violent death, or did it die peacefully in its sleep? This can influence whether your ghost is vengeful and frightening, or sad and peaceful.

Describing the ghost’s death can also provide important backstory and add depth to your ghost.

This could be revealed slowly throughout the story, keeping your readers hooked and wanting to find out more.

Tip 10: Convey the Ghost’s Motivation

What does your ghost want?

Is it seeking revenge, trying to communicate a message, or does it just want to be left alone?

Understanding and conveying your ghost’s motivation can make it more than just a spooky specter – it becomes a character in its own right.

A ghost’s motivation can be conveyed through its actions, its dialogue, or even its effect on the environment.

For example, a ghost seeking revenge might torment the living characters, while a ghost trying to communicate might cause strange phenomena like flickering lights or mysteriously moving objects.

Tip 11: Describe the Ghost’s Influence on the Environment

Ghosts often have a noticeable effect on their surroundings, like causing a drop in temperature, creating an eerie silence, or causing lights to flicker.

Describing these effects can make your ghost seem more real and add to the creepiness of the scene.

This also allows you to engage your reader’s senses.

For example, describing the chill that descends on a room when a ghost appears, or the way the lights dim and flicker, can make the reader feel like they’re experiencing the ghost’s presence themselves.

Tip 12: Keep Your Ghost Mysterious

One of the most intriguing things about ghosts is their mystery.

Avoid giving too much away about your ghost too soon. Keep your readers guessing about the ghost’s identity, its backstory, and its motivations.

Mystery can be maintained by revealing details about the ghost slowly and sporadically throughout the story.

This also creates suspense and keeps your readers hooked, as they’ll want to keep reading to find out more about the ghost.

Tip 13: Describe the Characters’ Reactions

The way your characters react to the ghost can say a lot about the ghost itself.

Are they terrified, fascinated, or perhaps even sympathetic?

This can give your readers clues about the nature of the ghost and how they should feel about it.

Remember to show, don’t tell, when describing your characters’ reactions.

Don’t just tell the readers that your character is scared – show them by describing the character’s actions, thoughts, and feelings.

Tip 14: Play with Lighting and Shadows

Lighting and shadows can greatly enhance your ghost descriptions.

A ghost appearing in the dead of night is scarier than one appearing in broad daylight.

Describing how the ghost interacts with light and shadows can make your scenes more atmospheric and vivid.

This also allows you to create striking visual imagery.

For example, describing how the ghost’s form casts no shadow, or how it seems to absorb the light around it, can create an eerie and unsettling image.

Tip 15: Use Foreshadowing

Foreshadowing the ghost’s appearance can create suspense and anticipation.

This could be subtle hints like a sudden drop in temperature, a feeling of being watched, or a pet acting strangely.

Foreshadowing gives your readers a sense of foreboding and makes them anticipate the ghost’s appearance, which can make the actual appearance even scarier.

It’s like the calm before the storm, making the storm itself feel more intense.

Tip 16: Utilize Setting and Atmosphere

The setting and atmosphere in which your ghost appears can greatly enhance your description.

A haunted house, a lonely graveyard, or a creepy forest are all perfect settings for a ghost.

The atmosphere can be created through the weather, the time of day, the state of the surroundings, and the reactions of the characters.

A stormy night, a room that’s fallen into disrepair, or a character who’s all alone can all contribute to a spooky atmosphere.

Tip 17: Experiment with Different Perspectives

Try describing your ghost from different perspectives.

How does the ghost appear to different characters? How does the ghost see itself?

This can add depth and complexity to your ghost and make your story more interesting.

Seeing the ghost from different perspectives can also reveal different aspects of the ghost.

For example, one character might see the ghost as a scary apparition, while another might see it as a sad remnant of the past.

Tip 18: Make Use of Silence and Sound

Silence can be just as spooky as sound when it comes to describing a ghost.

The sudden absence of sound can create a sense of unease and anticipation.

On the other hand, unexpected sounds like a soft whisper or a sudden wail can startle the reader and make the ghost seem more real.

You can also describe the sounds associated with the ghost’s presence, like the creaking of floorboards, the rustling of curtains, or the eerie silence that descends upon a room when it appears.

Tip 19: Use Contrast for Effect

Contrasting the ghost with its surroundings can make it stand out and seem more supernatural.

If the scene is warm and cozy, the ghost might appear cold and eerie. If the scene is noisy and chaotic, the ghost might appear in a moment of eerie silence.

Contrast can also be used in the ghost’s appearance.

For example, a ghost dressed in a bright, cheerful outfit might seem more out of place and eerie in a dreary, haunted house.

Tip 20: Be Consistent

Be consistent in your descriptions of the ghost.

If the ghost is described as transparent in one scene, it shouldn’t be solid in the next unless there’s a reason for the change.

Consistency helps maintain the reader’s suspension of disbelief and makes the ghost seem more real.

Consistency also applies to the ghost’s behavior, abilities, and weaknesses.

If the ghost can pass through walls, it shouldn’t be blocked by a closed door in a later scene.

If it’s unaffected by physical objects, a character shouldn’t be able to hit it with a baseball bat.

Tip 21: Remember the Ghost’s Backstory

The ghost’s backstory is an important part of its character.

It can explain why the ghost acts the way it does, why it appears the way it does, and what it wants.

This can add depth to the ghost and make it more than just a spooky apparition.

Remembering the ghost’s backstory can also help you be more consistent in your descriptions.

For example, if the ghost died in a fire, it might avoid fireplaces or get agitated when a character lights a match.

Here is a video I made about how to describe a ghost in writing:

How to Describe a Scary Ghost in Writing

When describing a scary ghost, focus on creating a sense of unease and terror.

Use strong, evocative language and appeal to the reader’s senses.

The ghost might appear as a shadowy figure with piercing eyes, or as a spectral figure in tattered clothes.

Its presence might be accompanied by a drop in temperature, an oppressive silence, or a feeling of being watched.

Descriptions of the ghost’s actions can also add to the fear factor. For instance, the ghost might move in an unsettling manner, or it might suddenly appear or disappear without warning.

The ghost’s behavior can also contribute to the fear factor.

It might engage in menacing activities, like tormenting the living characters or causing disturbing phenomena like slamming doors or flickering lights.

Remember to show the characters’ reactions to increase the fear factor. Their terror can amplify the reader’s own fear.

How to Describe a Friendly Ghost in Writing

A friendly ghost is usually less eerie and more comforting or quirky.

Its appearance might be less intimidating – perhaps it’s translucent and glows softly, or maybe it appears just like a normal human, only slightly out of place.

Its movements might be more gentle and less sudden, like a soft fluttering rather than a sudden apparition.

The ghost’s behavior can indicate its friendly nature.

It might be helpful towards the living characters, guiding them or protecting them.

It might even have a sense of humor, causing harmless pranks instead of scary phenomena. Remember to show the characters’ reactions to the ghost.

If they’re not afraid of the ghost and instead come to see it as a friend or ally, the reader will too.

How to Describe a Ghost’s Movement

Ghosts typically move in ways that are unlike the living, adding to their eerie nature.

They might float or glide instead of walking, or move through walls and other solid objects.

They might appear or disappear suddenly, or move without making a sound.

Their movements might also be strangely slow or fast, or they might remain still and unmoving in a way that living creatures can’t.

When describing a ghost’s movement, use sensory details and strong, evocative language.

For example, a ghost might “drift like a cloud of mist,” or “move with an uncanny stillness.” Their movements might cause a “cold draft,” or be accompanied by a “faint, eerie whisper.”

How to Describe a Ghost’s Voice

A ghost’s voice is usually different from a living person’s voice, adding to the ghost’s otherworldliness.

It might echo or sound far away, or it might be whispery or chilling.

It might even sound hollow or emotionless, or it might carry the emotions the ghost felt at the time of its death.

When describing a ghost’s voice, rely on concrete details and resonate language.

For example, a ghost’s voice might “echo through the room like a cold wind,” or be “as quiet as a sigh.”

It might “sound like it’s coming from a great distance,” or be “filled with an ancient sorrow.”

50 Words to Describe a Ghost in Writing

Here is a list of words to describe a ghost in writing:

  • Translucent
  • Transparent
  • Apparitional
  • Otherworldly
  • Specter-like
  • Apparition-like

Phrases to Describe a Ghost in Writing

Consider these phrases to describe a ghost in writing:

  • “Like a shadow in the corner of your eye.”
  • “A chill wind that passes through you.”
  • “A presence that you feel more than see.”
  • “An echo of a life once lived.”
  • “A figure that’s there one moment and gone the next.”
  • “As silent as the grave.”
  • “An unsettling stillness.”
  • “Eyes that glow with an otherworldly light.”
  • “A voice as cold as the grave.”
  • “A figure that seems to absorb the light around it.”

How to Introduce a Ghost in Writing

Introducing a ghost in your story should be done in a way that builds anticipation and suspense.

Start by foreshadowing its appearance with subtle hints, like a sudden drop in temperature, a feeling of being watched, or a pet acting strangely.

When you’re ready to introduce the ghost, do it in a way that engages the reader’s senses.

Describe the ghost’s appearance, the way it moves, the sound of its voice.

Show the characters’ reactions to increase the emotional impact.

Remember to keep some mystery about the ghost. Don’t reveal everything about it at once.

Instead, reveal its backstory, its motivations, and its nature slowly, throughout the story. This keeps your readers interested and engaged, wanting to find out more about the ghost.

Final Thoughts: How to Describe a Ghost in Writing

When writing ghost stories, I’ve always found it helpful to connect the ghost to the plot, theme, and problem of the story.

In this way, the ghost grows organically from your story instead of seemingly dropped in as a whim.

Related posts:

  • How to Describe a Scary Clown in Writing (130 Words + Tips)
  • How To Describe a Panic Attack in Writing (Ultimate Guide)
  • 55 Best Demonic Words for Fiction (Meanings & Examples)
  • How To Write a Funeral Scene (Ultimate Guide + 20 Examples)

Table of Contents

Professional Ghost

How do ghosts provide writing samples?

Hiring a ghostwriter is a big investment in time, money and even emotional commitment. It’s natural that a potential client will want to try-before-they-buy, or get a pretty good idea of the standard of their chosen ghost’s work. And therein lies the biggest conundrum around ghost writing; how can a ghostwriter provide a great portfolio of writing samples, when technically they can’t lay claim to any piece of work?

A ghost can of course rave about their writing prowess in generalities; ah yes, I have written bestsellers for a stellar cast including an A-list actor, a top sportsperson and a leading business guru . The problem is; it does sound a bit vague. Plus, without any physical proof the person on the other end of that boastful conversation would be forgiven for thinking: yeah, really? It’s certainly not a good, solid start to the fledgling relationship.

The other side to this shaky introduction is where a potential author asks a ghost to write a sample on spec. This is where I usually have my diva moment and declare that I have written more than 50 books and I am hopefully beyond the point of needing to do a writing test. I realise this seems pretty bad, particularly now I see it written down. Therefore, I would respectfully suggest (in much more measured tones!) that no professional ghostwriter has the time or resources to pen pieces for free.

It is possible to strike a deal to hire a ghost on a trial basis, to write a short, say 1000 word piece. However, I believe a better solution is for the ghost to pre-empt this and ask some of their clients if they mind their books being used as a showcase. I say some, because I know there are certain names in my portfolio of work that never, ever want to admit to using a ghost. That’s fine and that is what I signed up to when I helped pen their books. I’d honour that confidentiality even if I had not signed a contract guaranteeing that I would do so. However, there are certain clients I have worked with who have openly admitted that they have worked with me, either by including a ‘with Teena Lyons’ on the cover page, or a ‘thank you’ in the acknowledgements. In these circumstances, it seems quite reasonable to ask if they’d be agreeable to the work being used to demonstrate my abilities to future clients. They could, of course, say no and I would respect that. I should add that no one has ever refused such a request.

Some ghostwriters include a permissions clause in their contract, saying they reserve the right to include the contracted work in part, or full, within their professional portfolio. I must say, I don’t do this. I make a request to selected individuals at the end of a project. The go ahead is based on the final relationship I have with my client and their approval of the end product. If they are happy with how the project went, and there are no strict confidentiality clauses that would prevent identifying the relationship, then they are usually fine about giving the nod. I should add: I never just assume this. It is a conversation that needs to be had and fully understood by all parties. If they say yes, I thank them profusely because it is a huge deal for them to do this.

I now have work sample agreements from two dozen authors or more. When I am asked for examples of my work, I point prospective clients in the direction of Amazon and give them the titles of the books I have collaborated on. Amazon has that helpful ‘look inside’ feature, so there is not even a need to buy a book to check out my writing skills across a range of titles.

Of course, this pre-supposes that a ghost has a ready portfolio of work and a number of open-minded authors happy to share. For a ghostwriter just starting out, this is not so straightforward. My recommendation here would be to write a selection of samples, blogs or short stories that can be given to putative clients. Or, even better, find interesting people with extraordinary stories and ask them to let you record them for your portfolio.

In either case, whether it is via a request for permission to existing clients, or writing samples from scratch, I would recommend that any ghost keeps a range of different styles in their sample portfolio in order to show off their versatility. When anyone asks for samples, I try to closely match the material I provide to what I understand of their particular profile, although I do also point out that no two books are the same. Thus I can put forward a clutch of different genres that include a book that is a bit edgy and humorous, another that is quite corporate, one that is a pure autobiography and so on.

Don’t under-estimate the power of a testimonial to go with those samples either. One author I was lucky enough to work with was a well-known TV mentalist (who I can’t name – I know…) and he spent a lot of time explaining to me the power of endorsement. A personal recommendation from another like-minded individual makes others value a product far, far more. It can certainly give nervous new authors some peace of mind. Since then I have always made sure to ask for testimonials from my authors. A selection is also featured on my website in the ‘featured work’ section, if you are curious.

Finally, there is one very obvious avenue for a talented ghostwriter to produce a sample or samples of their work; write their own book. This was one of the many reasons why I wrote The Complete Guide to Ghostwriting. What better way can their be to provide a example of your writing skills?

If you would like to learn about my ghostwriting service, please click here . Or to contact me directly please click here .

Say it loud and proud: I work with a ghost!

What is a ghostwriter.

Phasmophobia Wiki

Ghost Writing

  • View history
„ Some Ghosts are able to write inside of books if given the proper tools to do so. ”

Ghost Writing is a piece of evidence used to determine which ghost is haunting a location. It can be obtained by using a Ghost Writing Book with an applicable ghost.

  • 1.1 Photo rewards
  • 3 Possible ghosts
  • 4 Writing Patterns

Mechanics [ ]

If Ghost Writing is a piece of evidence, if the ghost chooses to interact with an opened Ghost Writing Book, the book will rise and frantic scribbling will be visible. Ghost Writing cannot be given if the Ghost Writing Book is closed. If the ghost writes in the book, an EMF Level 2 reading will be created (25% chance of being an EMF Level 5 reading instead if the ghost has EMF Level 5 as evidence ).

There are several different types of Ghost Writing that a ghost can put in the book, with the tier I and tier III books both having three, and the tier II book having six. Each has an equal chance of occurring and the type of writing does not narrow down the type of ghost any more than the fact that the ghost writes in the book at all. Each book may contain different types of writing.

Photo rewards [ ]

Taking a photo of the Ghost Writing Book after it has been written in will yield a photo labelled as Ghost Writing , and reward up to $5 and 5XP, depending on the distance it was taken from. A photo labelled as Interaction , awarding up to $5 and 5XP, can be taken as well within 20 seconds of the book being written in. A Ghost Writing photo can only be obtained once per book, but interaction photos can be obtained separately if the ghost throws the book, regardless of whether the book has writing or not.

  • If a ghost throws a Ghost Writing Book, then it does not have Ghost Writing as evidence (or is hiding it on Nightmare difficulty or higher).

Possible ghosts [ ]

Writing patterns [ ].

Violent Scribbles

  • 1 Monkey Paw
  • 3 Tarot Cards

IMAGES

  1. Ghostwriting 101: Why you should use a ghostwriter

    ghost writing examples

  2. 25+ Ghost Story Prompts: Scary Ghost Writing Prompts 👻

    ghost writing examples

  3. A Beginner’s Guide to Ghostwriting: All the Facts (w/o the Fluff)

    ghost writing examples

  4. Ghostwriting 101

    ghost writing examples

  5. Ghostwriting 101

    ghost writing examples

  6. What is Ghostwriting? Everything You Need to Know

    ghost writing examples

VIDEO

  1. Ghost Writer Book

  2. Ghost Writing Book

  3. Ghostwriting Program

  4. Ghost writing 📝

  5. What's the difference Ghostwriting for clients vs yourself

  6. Ghost writing book setup

COMMENTS

  1. Ghostwriting 101: Tips from Bloggers Who've Done It

    For example, as a freelancer, you might be hired to write a blog post that's published under the CMO's name. Essentially, ghostwriting is when someone else has the byline on a piece you wrote. How to Ghostwrite Interview the person you're ghostwriting for. Make sure you understand the voice of the person you're writing for. Find the themes.

  2. Complete Guide to Ghostwriting: 4 Types of Ghostwriting

    Last updated: Sep 6, 2021 • 2 min read Ghostwriters tackle projects for people who don't have the time or skills to bring their idea or lived experience to life on the page. Learn about ghostwriting and the different types of ghostwriting projects that interested freelancers can take on.

  3. Ghostwriting 101

    To sum up, we can say that: Ghostwriting Is Writing Content On Behalf Of The Author. Who Are Ghostwriters? Ghostwriters work on projects under the name of another party. From technology experts, celebrities, and VIPs to business executives and politicians, every other business professionals need ghostwriters for content requirements.

  4. Ghostwriting: 10 Tips on How to Become a Ghostwriter

    Speculative Fiction Author You might have heard that ghostwriting is one of the most well-paid writing careers. It's true—being a ghostwriter can be a lucrative option. So what exactly is a ghostwriter? The short answer is that a ghostwriter is a writer whose name doesn't appear on the final work.

  5. A Beginner's Guide to Ghostwriting: All the Facts (w/o the Fluff)

    Learn what ghostwriting is, why you might want to do it, and how to get started as a professional ghostwriter. This guide covers the ins and outs of ghostwriting, from the types of projects and clients to the fees and benefits, with examples and tips.

  6. What Is Ghostwriting? Everything You Need to Know

    6. If you should use a ghostwriter for your next book What is ghostwriting?: Ghostwriting meaning explained What is ghostwriting? Ghostwriting is a form of writing where someone writes in the style and voice of another person whose name is attached to the work.

  7. Ghostwriting 101: What You Need to Know

    2 What is Ghostwriting? Types of Ghostwriting Projects Why Do People Hire Ghostwriters? Skills Ghostwriters Need 1. Ghostwriters need to be able to write in someone else's voice 2. Ghostwriters must leave their ego at the door 3 Steps for a Successful Ghostwriting Project when Working with Clients Tips for Being a Successful Ghostwriter

  8. 21 Ghostwriting Tips from Bestselling Ghostwriters

    Offer Letter Checklist + Template Follow our tips to successfully sell clients on your services while setting clear expectations. 3. Refer the author to other professionals when needed

  9. What is a Ghostwriter? An Insider's Guide to Secret Co-Authors

    An Insider's Guide to Secret Co-Authors. A ghostwriter is a professional hired to write something credited to someone else. From celebrity memoirs and speeches to query letters and blog posts, a ghostwriter can either complete an entire project solo or work collaboratively with the text's credited author. And, much like ghosts, these writers ...

  10. How to write a modern ghost story

    Even in ghost writing's heyday, it was the short story - by Dickens, HP Lovecraft, Charlotte Riddell - that was the dominant form, while the longer classic of the genre, The Turn of the Screw ...

  11. 6 Tips for Writing a Contemporary Ghost Story

    6 Tips for Writing a Contemporary Ghost Story. R.M. Romero offers six tips for writing contemporary ghost stories, with examples of how she incorporated them into the process of writing her new novel, The Ghosts of Rose Hill. We have always had to grapple with death and what (if anything) happens to us after our physical body dies, and ghost ...

  12. What Is a Ghostwriter?

    The difference between ghostwriting and copywriting is style and project scope. Copywriters are typically tasked with creating marketing materials, the words on product packaging, directions, and company or organization materials. Ghostwriters usually craft narrative work, whether it's a fictional or a true story. 5 ghostwriting examples

  13. What Is Ghostwriting and What Does a Ghostwriter Do?

    Ghostwriting is simply the term used to describe any text that is written by one person, but officially published under the name of another. In other words, the real author is invisible, or a "ghost", whose name won't appear next to the piece of writing in question. As a profession, it is surprisingly diverse.

  14. How Does Ghostwriting Work? The Complete Guide to Hiring the Voice

    Ghostwriting occurs when someone contributes to creating content without credit for doing so. They don't get a byline or author credit; in fact, many times someone else's name appears as the author of the content. In exchange for credit, the person doing the writing typically receives monetary compensation.

  15. Ten Ideas for Ghostwriting Samples

    Learn how to show your ghostwriting samples to potential clients without compromising your confidentiality. The web page offers tips and examples for non-fiction and fiction ghostwriters, such as using clips from non-ghostwriting projects, creating new material, publishing under your own name, and writing short stories.

  16. Check Out Top Ghost Writing Examples That Inspire

    Sample Dissertation A dissertation takes the top place among research papers, so all the requirements provided are greatly multiplied. We recommend that you use this ghostwriting example as a sample to study the structure, formatting, and quoting methods.

  17. Ghostwriting Jobs 101: How They Work, Where to Find Them, How to Thrive

    Ghostwriting jobs come in many forms, ranging from tasks requiring full-length fiction to orders for social media snippets. In addition to traditional "as-told-to" memoirs and autobiographies, some examples of ghostwriting services include: Nonfiction books: Ghostwriters often assist experts who are knowledgeable and respected in their ...

  18. How to Find a Ghostwriter You Can Trust With Your Story

    3. Evaluate their previous work. The best way to check a ghostwriter's skill, of course, is to dip into a book that they have written. A good writer will usually offer to share a couple of previous books for reference. Have a read of these and have a think about the style of writing.

  19. How to Become a Ghostwriter for Beginners (Ghostwriting Step-by-Step

    I have! If you have the budget and need a ghostwriter, then you can hire one. Anyone from authors to business owners to teachers and solopreneurs, the need is there. You might also be called a ghost blogger. Ghost blogging serves the same function as ghostwriters - you write content for someone else and they credit the writing under them.

  20. Ghost Writing Example • Angie's Diary

    A Personal Memoir John was dressed for school, but this morning, he was hiding behind his bedroom door, waiting for his mother to enter the bathroom. Eugene, John's older brother, was out of the house, and John had his plans. He thought about it all night and anxiously stood there waiting to hear the latch, which locked his mother in the bathroom.

  21. How to Describe a Ghost in Writing (Tips, Words, Examples)

    For example, comparing a ghost's appearance to a "drifting cloud" could suggest a more ethereal, peaceful presence, while likening it to "a shadow in the corner of your eye" might evoke a more unsettling, menacing atmosphere. Tip 3: Show, Don't Tell One of the oldest principles of writing is "show, don't tell."

  22. How do Ghostwriters Provide Writing Samples?

    It is possible to strike a deal to hire a ghost on a trial basis, to write a short, say 1000 word piece. However, I believe a better solution is for the ghost to pre-empt this and ask some of their clients if they mind their books being used as a showcase. I say some, because I know there are certain names in my portfolio of work that never ...

  23. Ghost Writing

    Ghost Writing is a piece of evidence used to determine which ghost is haunting a location. It can be obtained by using a Ghost Writing Book with an applicable ghost. If Ghost Writing is a piece of evidence, if the ghost chooses to interact with an opened Ghost Writing Book, the book will rise and frantic scribbling will be visible. Ghost Writing cannot be given if the Ghost Writing Book is ...