thesis ghost writer fee

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• Following the supervisor’s comments
• Editing or supplementing your paper
• The imitation of your writing style
• As many corrections as necessary
• Improvements even to calculations
• Formatting corrections
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• Writing a short well-timed speech
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Thesis writing help with solid guarantees

Learn more about our experts who help with writing a thesis

On our website, a thorough screening method is a crucial component of the thesis writing services. This allows us to use the most skilled ghostwriting service professionals who have expertise with a thesis in their subject. Every potential thesis author who applies to our writing service must get their identity confirmed.

Second, the candidate provides the credentials that evidence their ability to deliver a writing thesis service. For example, it might be a diploma, which is subject to verification. In case of successful authentication, an applicant to our ghostwriting service is to provide samples of their works, which help decide whether to proceed with further recruitment steps. If our service makes a choice in the candidate’s favor, they pass an interview, take a ghostwriting exam in their area, and perform a testing task.

Professionals who help with writing a thesis are always striving to enhance the quality of their services. To that end, the program analyzes and ranks ghostwriting professionals who deliver services to students. This strategy of our service determines how satisfied their customers are with writing assistance. That’s how the service manages to assign the most qualified ghostwriting professional to your thesis.

We help with thesis writing in more than 35 academic research areas

When assigning the order, we select a writing service expert for you, depending on the topic of your research. Our service has ghostwriting specialists in over 35 branches of science, and 4+ years of writing experience contribute to the expertise of ghostwriting pros. Be sure that, using this service, you get writing thesis help from a ghostwriting expert who is well-versed in the research topic and, therefore, qualified to write for you.

At our service, pros are classified into categories based on research areas, the thesis creating performance, and customer gratification: best available ghostwriting pro, top writing specialist (one of the top 30), and premium ghostwriting master (one of the top 10). Our service allows you to choose any ghostwriting expert option in your field. Whichever ghostwriting specialist you select, you get satisfying help for thesis writing in the listed subjects:

• Health Sciences and Nursing
• Business & Management
• English, Literature & Philology
• Psychology Social & Political Sciences
• Computer Sciences & Information Technology
• Finance and Accounting
• Data Science & Statistics
• Law & History
• Macro & Micro Economics
• Engineering & Construction

Our working process

Can i trust writing my thesis to someone else.

Sure. We can either complete the thesis you’ve started or write it from scratch. We always imitate your style when ghostwriting your thesis. The hired writing specialists are qualified to ghostwrite absolutely new research. You can even have us select a topic before we write your paper.

How do you provide help for thesis writing?

We write the work from scratch. Ghostwriting is done by following your instructions and topic. If the topic for ghostwriting hasn’t yet been chosen, we can select it at no cost, send it for approval and start to write after confirmation. Experts in ghostwriting conduct research, collect data and make calculations.

If you have some ghostwriting preferences, mention them in the instructions or discuss them with the writing specialist. Before delivery, the quality assurance team will check if the writing is compliant with requirements and original. You have 30 days to request edits from a ghostwriting specialist at no price.

Is your writing thesis help legal?

This website is owned by BrainUp Limited company registered in Gibraltar, having no legal restrictions on this kind of business. The service provided positions itself as academic assistance. It has nothing to do with academic dishonesty, and ghostwritten works are protected by the Digital Millennium Copyright Act.

How do I pay for my academic thesis? Is it safe?

You can pay for ghostwriting specialists’ services with Visa, Maestro, and MasterCard. These options are in internationally recognized payment methods, so your money and personal data are safe with us.

Use academic writing thesis assistance 100% following your needs

Are you one of the students who need some help with thesis writing from a competent service? If so, you should consider your choice of writing master’s service carefully. The service run by writing professionals has a high client satisfaction rate. How has this service achieved this ghostwriting quality level? Learn about the writing specialists’ service approach below.

The writing professionals’ service is dedicated to meeting the needs of clients. So high-qualified specialists deliver quality ghostwriting services following all of your specifications about an academic thesis. The writing master assigned to provide you with service thoroughly examines specifications. Aiming to be the best thesis ghostwriter website for MBA and other academic levels, writing gurus may ask you some questions to customize the service and ghostwrite as well as possible.

What makes us one of the best thesis ghostwriter websites for college students:

• The framework is clear, and the written ideas flow well.
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• The thesis is done in a proper academic ghostwriting style.
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We’re among the best thesis ghostwriting websites for masters, doctorate, or bachelor’s students. So only Turnitin-friendly texts are ghostwritten by our writing service. Every student who hires a writing specialist from service expects high-level quality and originality regardless of the complexity or types of theses .. Nobody wants to put their reputation at risk because of plagiarism in a ghostwritten thesis from a fraudulent writing service.

Ghostwriting professionals from this service complete original research. Grounding their writing on the most relevant and reputed sources, they make proper citations, which is especially crucial for some thesis parts (e.g., if you’d like to hire our literature review service ). Your ghostwritten thesis will have a low similarity score proved by antiplagiarism software if you use our academic writing thesis assistance.

It doesn’t matter whether you need bachelor thesis ghostwriting or service at any other academic level. The service ensures writing includes a unique perspective on the topic of your thesis. You will receive service, including ghostwriting on unique ideas and a high academic value of the thesis. But if you are here for writing tips and guidelines, check our helpful articles, e.g., find out the difference between thesis vs hypothesis .

No more “writing my thesis” Google requests. Hire a ghostwriting expert and get a top-grade thesis!

How Much a Quality Ghostwriter Costs: Pricing Breakdown

by GetPublished | Jan 20, 2022 | Blog , Writing

Publishing a book is a big achievement — one that several aspiring authors strive for throughout their lifetimes. But when push comes to shove, and an author needs support, they look to ghostwriters. What are ghostwriters? And how much does a ghostwriter cost? This article breaks down ghostwriters, their associated cost, and where you can find a ghostwriter.

What is a Ghostwriter?

Before we get to the big question, “How much does a ghostwriter cost?”, let’s first define what a ghostwriter actually is. A ghostwriter is a professional writer who charges a fee to write a book, or any other type of written content, for you. A ghostwriter typically does not take any credit for writing the project, or earn any future royalties , as the book is published in your name.

Ghostwriters serve an important purpose in the publishing world. For example, a busy CEO may need a book written about their company but has neither the time nor the writing chops to pull it off. A celebrity interested in telling their life story in a compelling memoir will likely lean on the talents of a ghostwriter to handle this task. There are ample reasons why someone might procure the help of a ghostwriter.

Now, going back to the question at hand, “How much does a ghostwriter cost?” The answer to that question is going to depend on multiple factors, so continue reading to get the full scoop.

How Much is a Ghostwriter? Cost Breakdown

As we delve into the meat of the topic — learning just how much a ghostwriter costs — understand that there is a broad range of ghostwriter services out there. Ghostwriters provide many types of content, including blogs, articles, song lyrics, speeches, movie scripts, case studies, and, of course, books.

Here we will concern ourselves with how much a ghostwriter of books will charge.

Ghostwriters charge for their writing services in two basic ways; they either charge a per/word rate for the book, or an agreed upon fee that covers the entire scope of the project. Some ghostwriters will charge by the page, but that is fairly rare.

• Ghostwriter costs by the word range from 50 cents per word to more than $2.00 per word on average.
• Ghostwriter costs that are calculated by the project may range from $30,000-$200,000 for a 60,000-90,000-word manuscript.

Factors That Influence Ghostwriter Fees

Ghostwriter fees are based upon several factors:

• The ghostwriter’s level of expertise. A ghostwriter’s professional experience, or special expertise in a chosen field, will be reflected in the rates they charge.
• The type of book. When estimating ghostwriter costs, consider the type of book you are authoring. A nonfiction book that is chock full of research and data points will require a much higher ghostwriting fee than a romance novel. This is due to the qualifications needed for writing a more technical book, as well as the additional time required to complete this type of nonfiction project.
• The location of the ghostwriter. The region in which the ghostwriter resides will influence how much a ghostwriter costs. A ghostwriter in a small Midwest town will charge substantially less than one who lives in New York City, based on the differing costs of living per region.
• The time frame. If the author is in a rush to have their book ghostwritten, they should plan to pay premium rates for this service.
• Editing services. There may be additional ghostwriter costs for providing editing services . These can range from $.06/word to $.75/word depending on the specific editing service requested.

How Does Ghostwriting Work?

If you have always wanted to write a book, but simply do not have the skillset or time to put your story idea to paper, hiring a ghostwriter can be the perfect solution. Here’s how it works:

Select a ghostwriter

This is the most critical step of the entire process. As with most consumer decisions, getting a firsthand referral for a high-quality ghostwriter is the preferred route to finding a ghostwriter. Otherwise, you can search for a qualified ghostwriter on freelancer platforms like Upwork, or inquire at a reputable ghostwriter agency.

Planning session

For the project to go smoothly you will schedule a detailed planning session with the ghostwriter. During the session, you describe your vision for the book, and provide any work on the project that you might have already completed. This allows the ghostwriter to get a feel for your writer’s voice.

Agree on a fee

If you weren’t sure how much a ghostwriter costs, this is the step of the process when you’ll find that out. The ghostwriter provides a bid for the project that is based on the length and scope of the work being requested.

Sign a contract

There should be several elements included in the ghostwriter’s contract. These include an estimated word count, milestones throughout the process, the services provided, the number of revisions allowed, a projected completion date, a non-disclosure agreement, and the ghostwriter’s fee.

Your Ghost Writing Questions Answered

Why does an author even need a ghostwriter.

Someone who runs a business, for example, may wish to have a book to distribute at events or to sell on their website. A ghostwriter can fulfill this need. Or, an author might get a quarter of the way into their manuscript and be pulled away from the project for personal reasons. A ghostwriter can help them finish the book on schedule. There are many reasons why a ghostwriter can come in handy.

Do ghostwriters receive royalties?

In most cases, no, ghostwriters do not receive royalties. They are compensated for the work they deliver, and that is the end of their involvement with your book.

Is hiring a ghostwriter legal?

Yes, hiring a ghostwriter is perfectly legal. It is a service rendered to help an author provide a marketable product, just as any other service is to achieve a business goal.

Need a Ghostwriter? Here’s Your Connection

Looking for a reputable and experienced ghostwriter to help you finish your book? Consider partnering with Gatekeeper Press for your ghostwriting and editing needs. Reach out here to connect with an experienced ghostwriter at Gatekeeper Press today.

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How Much Does A Ghostwriter Cost? (2024 Rates and Fees)

In this blog post, you’ll learn how much it costs to hire a ghostwriter in 2024..

Whether it’s writing a book, content for your website, or any other writing project, hiring a ghostwriter is always a welcome prospect, especially if you don’t have the time or expertise to do it yourself.

How Much Does A Ghostwriter Cost?

The cost to hire a ghostwriter is between $30,000 and $80,000.

(We know it’s a wide range. We’ll narrow it down in a moment.)

The rate also varies between fiction and nonfiction, as does the project’s topic or subject.

It’s a lot of money but usually, a book ghostwriter will put between 300 and 500 hours into your project.

So when you look at it that way, it’s really not that much money!

When hiring a ghostwriter, here’s a general breakdown of how to think about cost:

Experience and Expertise: More experienced ghostwriters, especially those with a proven track record of bestsellers or high-profile projects, will typically charge more. Rates can range from a few thousand dollars for less experienced writers to tens of thousands or even more for highly sought-after ghostwriters.

Project Scope and Complexity: The type of content being written also affects the cost. For example, a simple series of blog posts or a short ebook will cost less than a comprehensive, research-intensive non-fiction book or an intricately plotted novel.

Manuscript Length: The length of the work is a major determinant of cost. Ghostwriters might charge per word, per page, or per project. Per-word rates can range from $0.10 to $1 or more, while per-page rates might be anywhere from $50 to $500.

Timeline: If a project needs to be completed in a shorter timeframe, ghostwriters might charge a higher rate for the expedited service.

Additional Services: Some ghostwriters offer additional services like editing, formatting, publishing assistance, or marketing strategy, which will be priced separately or might increase the overall cost of the project.

What is a Ghostwriter?

A ghostwriter is a professional writer who is hired to create content on behalf of another person or organization, without receiving public credit for their work .

The content produced by a ghostwriter is typically published under the client’s name or the name of the organization they represent.

At the core of ghostwriting is the ability to understand and emulate another’s perspective, making each piece of writing appear as though it was penned by the named author themselves.

Ghostwriters delve deep into the psyche and style of their clients, ensuring that every word resonates with authenticity.

This skill involves a sophisticated synthesis of the client’s ideas, experiences, and voice into a coherent and captivating narrative.

Ghostwriters can be found in various industries, working on diverse projects that span different genres and topics.

Who Uses Ghostwriters?

You’d be surprised how many people hire ghostwriters for various projects, from CEOs to small business owners.

And yes, even authors choose to work with them for one reason or another.

The cost of ghostwriting services is determined by a slew of factors.

This can including the length and complexity of your project, the writing you need done, the writer’s experience level and reputation, deadlines, research requirements, and turnaround time.

Like most services and commodities, ghostwriting fees have seen a notable increase.

This is a response to the broader economic pressures that affect all sectors, including the literary and content creation industries.

Inflation has driven up the cost of living and operational expenses for ghostwriters, necessitating an adjustment in their rates to sustain their livelihood and business.

This change is reflective of a broader trend where professionals across various fields are compelled to reevaluate their pricing structures in the face of economic changes.

Unfortunately, for clients seeking ghostwriting services, this means budgeting more for projects that previously might have cost less.

However, the value brought by skilled ghostwriters, capable of turning ideas into compelling narratives, remains an indispensable asset, making their services continually sought after despite the increased costs.

 Common Types of Ghostwriting Projects

Books: Ghostwriters often help create autobiographies, memoirs, and self-help books. They work closely with the client to capture their voice, experiences, and ideas, translating them into a compelling narrative.

Articles: Businesses and individuals may hire ghostwriters to write articles for magazines, newspapers, or online publications on their behalf. These articles can cover a wide range of topics, such as industry trends, opinion pieces, or informative guides.

Speeches: Politicians, executives, and public figures often use ghostwriters to craft their speeches, ensuring their message is communicated effectively and engagingly.

Blog Posts: Companies and individuals looking to maintain a strong online presence often turn to ghostwriters to produce blog content . Ghostwriters can write on various subjects, ensuring the client’s voice and brand identity remain consistent.

Social Media: Maintaining a consistent and engaging social media presence can be time-consuming. Ghostwriters can help create content for platforms like Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram, allowing their clients to focus on other aspects of their business or personal brand.

Why Hire A Ghostwriter For Your Next Project?

The written word has never been more critical in today’s fast-paced digital world.

As a business owner, entrepreneur, or content creator, you need to communicate your ideas effectively and consistently.

However, not everyone has the time, skill, or inclination to write their own content.

This is where ghostwriters come in – they are the invisible force behind some of the most successful books, articles, and blogs in the world.

A Ghostwriter Will Save You Time

One of the main reasons people turn to ghostwriters is to save time, oh yes, the most valuable of commodity!

Writing is a time-consuming process that requires focus, research, and dedication.

By hiring a professional ghostwriter, you can free up your valuable time to focus on other aspects of your business, while they take care of crafting engaging and well-researched content on your behalf.

Expertise and skill

Ghostwriters are experienced professionals who have honed their writing skills over the years.

They know how to write in a way that grabs the reader’s attention, conveys your message effectively, and keeps them engaged.

By hiring a ghostwriter, you can tap into their expertise, ensuring that your content is of the highest quality and tailored to your target audience.

Consistency and reliability

Maintaining a consistent publishing schedule is crucial to building an online presence and establishing yourself as an authority in your field.

However, it can be challenging to keep up with the demands of producing regular, high-quality content.

A ghostwriter can help you maintain that consistency, delivering reliable content on a regular basis and ensuring your online presence remains strong.

Confidentiality

Ghostwriters work behind the scenes, and their services are completely confidential.

This means you can take full credit for the content they produce, without having to worry about revealing the fact that you’ve enlisted the help of a professional writer.

This can be particularly beneficial for those who want to maintain the perception of being an expert in their field, without revealing that they’ve had assistance with their writing.

Fresh perspective

Sometimes, being too close to your own work can make it difficult to see the bigger picture or identify areas for improvement.

A ghostwriter can bring a fresh perspective to your content, offering new ideas and insights that can help take your project to the next level.

How Much Does It Cost To Hire A Ghostwriting for Fiction

Average cost: $20,000- $40,000.

Fiction writing requires a great deal of creativity.

Ghostwriters typically charge per word or page, ranging from $0.20 to $1.50 per word.

They may also request an upfront fee between $15,500 and $15,000 depending on the length of your book, its complexity and the writer’s experience.

Other things can also factor in the cost, such as the number of drafts required, research and outline preparation, and novel formatting and editorial services.

The number of required drafts – The more drafts required, the higher the fee.

The first draft is always the most expensive as it covers all research and outlining. Any other drafts will cost less but add to the overall cost of your project.

Research and outline preparation – A ghostwriter may need to do a lot of research to portray certain scenes or situations in your fiction book accurately. They may also need to create a detailed outline for the entire book.

If so, these costs will add up quickly.

Novel formatting and editorial services – Formatting is likewise a crucial part of any successful book, which ghostwriters can help you with.

The cost of this service is determined by the level of complexity in the book. Professional editors may also be necessary, adding to the overall cost of your project.

How Much Does It Cost To Hire A Ghostwriter for Nonfiction

Average cost: $30,000- $80,000.

Yes, we know that’s a lot of money!

The cost of nonfiction ghostwriting may not be far from fiction ghostwriting, but the project’s intricacy and subject matter also determine it.

Unlike fiction, nonfiction requires extensive research to be accurate, which raises the fee.

There’s no room for inaccuracy here.

Ghostwriters catering to nonfiction, i.e., books about business, psychology and personal development, usually have slightly higher rates due to the expertise needed.

For example, a nonfiction book with psychological insights will require the ghostwriter to thoroughly understand the subject, reflected in how much they’ll ask for their services.

These writers may charge per hour or have an upfront fee ranging from $10,000 to $20,000.

Autobiographies are a whole new ball game.

They require a unique writing style, intense research, and utmost discretion.

Autobiographies also tend to be longer than other types of nonfiction books.

In most cases, authors will look for an experienced ghostwriter who can work confidently with sensitive material; that’s why the fee isn’t cheap.

These ghostwriters expect to work with renowned figures like celebrities and politicians, so getting paid upwards of $50,000 for their services wouldn’t be surprising.

Can You Hire A Ghostwriter For Shorter Works?

Average cost: $5,00- $10,000.

Yes, ghostwriters can also take on shorter projects, i.e., essays, blog posts and articles.

These works often have a lower fee than books – usually between $0.10 and $1 per word – because the research process is simpler.

The cost of an essay or article will depend on the length, subject, and deadline.

The main difference between book and article ghostwriting is the time investment.

A typical novel may take months to write, while a blog post or article can be completed within days.

This, however, doesn’t mean that shorter works require less expertise. On the contrary, they may involve tight deadlines and strict guidelines to which the writer must adhere.

Can You Hire A Ghostwriter For Academic and Business Writing

Average cost: $5,000- $15,000.

Academic writing is a relatively new avenue for ghostwriters, but it exists.

Ghostwriters are engaged to help students with complex assignments such as dissertations and theses, research papers and essays.

The fee greatly depends on the difficulty of the paper; ghostwriters don’t charge per word here.

Instead, they usually work with a flat rate per project or an hourly rate. The reason is obvious: a single project may require more effort than dozens of blog posts.

Business writing is another emerging sector in the ghostwriting industry.

Businesses hire ghostwriters to create promotional materials, speeches and other documents to help them reach their target market.

Business correspondence becomes more convenient when you have someone to compose emails and other documents.

Business writing is a bit more expensive than blog posts, with fees ranging from $50 to $200 per hour.

CEOs and high-level executives often need ghostwriters to help create books, newsletters and press releases. Essentially, being a ghostwriter for business is more of a long-term gig than fiction and nonfiction.

Here, the ghostwriter works closely with the executive to help shape their ideas into something tangible.

Cost Of Hiring A Ghostwriter For Content Marketing 

Average cost: $1,000- $5,000.

Content creation it’s all about scaling output while also maintaining quality.

A competent ghostwriter will help you with this by providing thought-provoking articles that will engage your target audience and drive traffic to your website.

Businesses may leverage the abilities and strengths of ghostwriters to carry out a highly efficient content marketing campaign.

The fee for content creation projects depends on the client’s budget but usually ranges from $0.10 to $1 per word.

The role of a ghostwriter in content marketing varies from one niche to another.

The content could take several forms, notably website copy, business or instruction manuals, whitepapers, and blog posts. In any case, the goal is to engage audiences with content that stands out from the rest.

The job may also include writing various campaigns’ landing pages and CTAs (calls-to-action).

This would involve understanding SEO (search engine optimization) and how to use keywords effectively in the content.

The fee here is higher since the ghostwriter needs to be an expert in this area.

How Do Ghostwriters Charge?

Understanding the various payment structures, methods, and schedules used by ghostwriters is crucial for clients seeking their services.

By familiarizing yourself with these aspects, you can confidently negotiate a payment arrangement that suits both parties, leading to a successful and mutually beneficial collaboration.

The key to a smooth working relationship is clear communication and a well-defined agreement that outlines the project’s scope, deadlines, and payment terms.

Different Payment Structures:

Ghostwriters typically work under a variety of payment structures.

Understanding these structures can help you determine which one suits your project’s needs and budget.

In this model, ghostwriters charge a predetermined rate for each word they write.

This payment structure is popular for shorter projects, such as blog posts or articles, and provides a transparent pricing system.

Per Project:

Charging per project is common for larger, more complex assignments, like books or extensive research papers.

The ghostwriter and client agree on a fixed price for the entire project, which usually factors in research, writing, and revisions.

Some ghostwriters prefer to charge an hourly rate, billing clients based on the time spent working on the project.

This method can be ideal for ongoing projects where the scope may evolve or when the client is unsure of the exact requirements.

Retainer Agreement:

A retainer agreement involves the client paying the ghostwriter a regular fee (monthly or quarterly) for a specified amount of work.

This arrangement is useful for long-term collaborations or when the client requires ongoing content creation.

Payment Methods:

Ghostwriters accept various payment methods, depending on their preferences and the platforms they use. Common payment options include:

Bank Transfers:

Many ghostwriters accept direct bank transfers, which offer a secure and straightforward way to send and receive payments.

PayPal and Other Online Payment Platforms:

Online payment platforms like PayPal, Venmo, or Zelle provide a convenient and relatively secure method for handling payments. These platforms often charge a small fee for their services.

Payment Schedules For A Ghostwriter

When working with a ghostwriter, it’s essential to establish a clear payment schedule.

This can vary depending on the project and the agreement between both parties. Common payment schedules include:

Upfront Payments:

Some ghostwriters may require a percentage (or even the full amount) of the project fee before beginning work.

This ensures the writer’s commitment to the project and offers a degree of financial security.

Milestone-Based Payments

Milestone-based payments involve dividing the project into stages or milestones, with the client making payments upon completion of each milestone. This method can help manage cash flow and ensure consistent progress on the project.

Split Payments

Split payments involve dividing the project fee into two or more installments.

The client typically pays an initial deposit before work begins and the remaining balance upon completion.

Traditional Publishing vs Self-Publishing: Who Pays the Ghostwriter?

Suppose you plan on having your book ghostwritten (fiction or nonfiction), the arrangement between you and the ghostwriter, particularly who pays who depends on your chosen publication route.

Traditional publishing involves an editor, whereas self-publishing does not.

Self-publishing may or may not involve a ghostwriter, depending on the author’s preference.

In traditional publishing, the publisher pays the ghostwriter upfront and then pays royalties when the book is sold.

The amount paid to the ghostwriter often appears in a separate line item on royalty statements.

If you choose to go with self-publishing, you are responsible for paying the ghostwriter upfront and in full.

The way the industry works is if you’ve signed a publishing deal for a ghostwritten book, the publisher is responsible for paying the ghost.

This often happens, especially when authors tap a ghost’s services to write the proposal.

However, should there be no publishing deal in place, but you intend to hire a ghost, you’re likely paying for their services.

A contract is highly recommended so everyone can be clear about the roles and responsibilities, including who pays whom.

Regardless of who pays the ghostwriter, authors must remember that they are collaborating with another professional.

This means both parties should agree on what to expect from each other in terms of deliverables and payment.

The Contract for A Ghostwriter

A written contract is a “must-have” when you hire a ghostwriter.

Remember, it’s not merely an option; the absence of a contract can make the agreement invalid in a court of law. To draw up the contract, both parties should weigh several factors, i.e., deadlines and payment schedules.

To guarantee that you are getting your money’s worth, specify in the contract how many assignments will be given and what will be expected.

When drafting a ghostwriting contract, see that you include the following information:

• Names and contact details of both parties (author and ghostwriter)
• Description of services to be rendered
• Fee structure with a payment schedule
• Copyright ownership (who owns the rights to what is produced)

Having all the details in writing creates a sense of security.

This carefully outlines what both parties should expect from each other and helps avoid future misunderstandings.

When NOT to Hire a Ghostwriter

Ghostwriting isn’t everyone’s cup of tea.

It’s a process that requires patience, understanding, and consistently meeting deadlines. Therefore, it is best to avoid ghostwriting when you:

• Do not have an idea or plan for your content
• Have no time to work with a ghostwriter on revisions
• Are looking for someone who can do the work for free
• Need content very quickly and are not willing to pay a premium
• Are just starting out in business and need help with branding

But that doesn’t mean you can’t succeed in writing projects.

If you are a self-starter and have the confidence to carry out all stages of content creation, then by all means, do it yourself.

Writing a book or an article requires attention to detail and commitment. It’s best to start small with a blog post and eventually work your way up to larger projects.

What Makes Hiring a Ghostwriter Worth It?

Hiring a ghostwriter comes with it several advantages that would otherwise be difficult to attain. For authors, it means:

• Being able to break out of writer’s block
• Gaining access to experienced professionals in their niche
• Reducing the time taken to complete a writing project
• Increasing the chance of success for a book launch
• Having a professional create consistent and interesting content
• The ability to get valuable feedback on the project

For business executives and organizations, it means:

• Having an experienced writer to create content or speeches
• Getting a better understanding of their target audience
• Being able to focus on other aspects of the business while the ghostwriter works on a project
• Getting help with campaigns, social media posts and other copywriting tasks

For content marketers, it means:

• Getting help creating high-quality content that is optimized for search engines
• Being able to keep up with the demands of content marketing
• Having a professional who can write stories and articles while staying on brand
• Getting the needed assistance in content promotion and distribution

The Value of a Ghost Vis-a-Vis the Cost of Paying One

There’s no doubt hiring a ghostwriter is an investment.

Before you put your money into it, you must understand the value of their services.

Ghostwriters are often worth every penny and then some more because they transform an idea into a product you couldn’t have produced all by yourself.

However, don’t take it as a showcase of your weakness as a writer. Instead, use this as an opportunity to collaborate with someone who can help bring your ideas to life.

Just make sure you have a clear-cut agreement on a fair rate for the services rendered.

This is where a good contract comes in handy and will save you from any unpleasant – and costly -surprises later.

All the same, there always will be scenarios in which ghostwriting may not be the best option.

It can be expensive; some people may prefer to do their work themselves if they have the time and resources.

How To Negotiate With a Ghostwriter

Finding the right ghostwriter and striking a fair deal can be challenging.

In this section, we’ll explore how to negotiate effectively with a ghostwriter, ensuring a smooth and productive collaboration.

Do Your Research:

Before diving into negotiations, take the time to research ghostwriters in your niche or industry.

Familiarize yourself with their writing styles, experience levels, and average rates.

Knowing the market will empower you to make informed decisions and negotiate from a position of strength.

Be Clear About Your Expectations:

When approaching a potential ghostwriter, clearly articulate your project’s scope, goals, and expectations.

Provide as much information as possible, including word count, deadlines, and any specific requirements.

Having a well-defined project will make negotiations smoother and help you find a writer who is a good fit for your needs.

Determine Your Budget:

Before entering negotiations, establish a budget for your project.

Keep in mind that experienced ghostwriters will charge more for their services.

However, investing in a skilled writer can save you time and effort in the long run, ultimately resulting in a higher-quality final product.

Be prepared to negotiate within your budget but be realistic about the quality you can expect for your investment.

Consider Various Payment Structures:

Ghostwriters can be compensated in several ways, including per word, per project, hourly, or through a retainer agreement.

Each payment structure has its pros and cons, so consider which option best aligns with your needs and budget.

During negotiations, be open to discussing different payment structures and finding a solution that works for both parties.

Be Willing to Compromise:

Negotiation is about finding a balance between your needs and the ghostwriter’s requirements.

Be prepared to make concessions in some areas while standing firm on critical points. Remember that a successful negotiation is one where both parties feel satisfied with the outcome.

Establish Clear Terms in a Contract:

Once you’ve reached an agreement, put the terms of your collaboration in writing.

A contract should outline the project’s scope, payment terms, deadlines, and any other relevant details.

This will help prevent misunderstandings and protect both parties in case of disputes.

Foster Open Communication:

A strong working relationship with your ghostwriter is crucial for project success.

Encourage open and honest communication throughout the collaboration, and provide constructive feedback on their work.

By fostering a positive working environment, you’ll increase the likelihood of a successful partnership and a high-quality finished product.

Final Thoughts On The Cost of Hiring A Ghostwriter

The bottom line is that ghostwriting gets you what you need to complete whatever writing project you’re working on.

It guarantees that your content is effective from your and your audience’s perspective.

That said, the only true obstacle is your willingness to collaborate with someone who you literally don’t know.

But once you’re comfortable with the prospect of working with an expert, you’ll be ready to work with a ghostwriter and make the most of it.

Further Reading

How To Write A Business Book

Hiring An Editor For Your Book

How To Publish Your Book

How To Become A Ted Talk Speaker 

Publishing Trends in 2022

How To Write A Book Proposal 

How To Hire A Ghostwriter 

Hybrid Publishing Vs Self Publishing 

How To Hire A Ghostwriter On Upwork

Joel Mark Harris graduated from the Langara School of Journalism in 2007. Joel is an award-winning journalist, novelist, screenwriter and producer.

He has ghostwritten numerous books in all types of genres including true life crime, business, memoir, and self help. With over 1,000 blog posts to his name, he has helped hundreds of business owners scale their business and increase their visibility. You can email him at [email protected]

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How Much Does It Cost to Hire a Ghostwriter? [Rates and Fees]

• February 17, 2024

Table of Contents:

What influences ghostwriter cost, 1. how tricky the job is, 2. experience matters, 3. time is money, 4. opportunity cost, 5. business stuff, average market rates for ghostwriting, 1. short projects, 2. books and big projects, 3. special topics, comparing costs: ghostwriter vs. traditional writing services, 1. personal touch, 2. expertise on demand, 3. cost considerations, 4. marketing magic, additional ghostwriter costs to consider, 1. revisions, 2. research, 3. marketing.

Ghostwriting

When you think about writing a book, an article, or even a speech, you might not always have the time or skill to do it yourself. That’s where a ghostwriter comes in! You can hire a ghostwriter to write for you, and they do it without putting their name on the work. It’s like having a secret helper who does all the writing while you get to share your ideas and stories with the world.

But how much does it cost to hire a ghostwriter? It’s important to know this because it helps you plan and make smart choices for your project. Let’s find out more about the costs of hiring a ghostwriter.

Have you ever wondered why some ghostwriters cost more than others? Well, it’s a bit like shopping for a new bike. Some bikes have special features and are made by famous brands, so they cost more. The same goes for ghostwriters. Here are a few things that can make the ghostwriter cost go up or down:

If your writing project is complex, like a big science book with many facts, it might cost more. Simple projects, like a short story, might be less expensive.

Ghostwriters who have been writing for a long time or have written famous books usually charge more. It’s like paying extra for a bike made by a well-known company.

If you need your writing done super fast, it might cost more. It’s like when you pay extra for fast shipping.

This is a fancy way of saying “what you give up when you choose something.” For example, if a ghostwriter spends time on your book, they might give up other jobs. So, they need to ensure they’re paid well for their time.

If your project can help a ghostwriter learn new things or make their business grow, they might charge less. It’s a bit like getting a discount because both sides win something.

Talking about money can be tricky, but knowing how much you might need to spend when hiring a ghostwriter is important. Think of it like this: if you were buying a new video game or toy, you’d want to know how much a ghostwriter costs, right? It’s the same with ghostwriting. Prices can vary, so let’s break it down:

Ghostwriters might charge a few hundred dollars for small stuff, like a blog post or a short story. It’s like buying a small toy or a game that isn’t too expensive.

Writing a whole book takes a lot of work. So, ghostwriters usually charge more, from a few thousand dollars to tens of thousands! It’s like saving up for a big, fancy toy or a gaming console.

If you want a book about something special or technical, like a science book or a business guide, might a ghostwriter cost more? It’s like paying extra for a limited-edition toy or a game that’s hard to find.

Remember, these are just rough ideas. The best way to know is to talk to the Ghostwriters for hire . They can give you a more exact price based on what you need.

Now, you might wonder, “Why such a big range?” Well, it’s because every writing project is different, and every ghostwriter has their own set of skills. It’s all about finding the right match for your story and budget.

When you want to share your story or ideas with the world, choosing who should write it is a big decision. You might consider hiring a ghostwriter, like the ones from Ghost Writing Founder , or maybe you’re considering traditional writing services. Let’s see how they stack up against each other:

With a ghostwriter, you get a very personal service. They listen to your stories and ideas and turn them into a book or article just for you. It’s like having a custom-made toy made just as you like it. Traditional writing services might not give you that same level of personal care.

Ghost Writing Founder and similar services offer experts in specific types of writing, like author website development or content creation solutions . This means you can find someone just right for your project. Traditional services might offer a wide range of help, but finding that perfect match might be harder.

Hiring a ghostwriter might initially seem more expensive, especially for big projects like books. But remember, you’re paying for their time, skill, and the fact that they can make your ideas sound great. You might pay less with traditional services, but the result might not feel as tailored to you.

If you’re looking to sell your book or get your ideas out there, ghost writings also offer things like book marketing agency services. This means they help make sure people hear about your work. Traditional writing services might write for you but not help with marketing.

Hiring a ghostwriter, like someone from Ghost Writing Founder, is a bit like planning a party. You know you’ll need to spend money on the main stuff, like food and decorations (or, in this case, the writing). But there are always a few extra things you might not consider at first. Let’s look at some of those extra ghostwriter costs:

Sometimes, after reading what your ghostwriter wrote, you might want to change a few things. It’s like deciding you want different balloons for your party at the last minute. These changes can cost a bit more.

If your book or project needs lots of special facts and information, your ghostwriter must do research. This is like paying someone to find the perfect party theme. It takes time and effort, so it might add to the ghostwriter cost.

Once your book is written, you’ll want people to read it, right? Working with a book marketing agency can help get your book out there. Think of it as sending out invitations to your party. You want to make sure everyone knows and wants to come!

Whether you’re writing a book, a blog post, or anything else, a ghostwriter can turn your dreams into something real that you can share with others. It’s all about teamwork, saving up, and making smart choices.

Now you know how to plan for the ghostwriter cost, understand what affects prices, and how to make the most of hiring a ghostwriter. With this knowledge, you’re ready to start your adventure in writing. Who knows what amazing stories you’ll share?

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Ghostwriting Fees: How Much Does It Cost To Hire A Ghostwriter?

If you need help writing your book, one of your first questions might be about ghostwriting fees.

How much does it cost to hire a ghostwriter?

This is a common question, and possibly an intimidating question. Honestly, some ghostwriters don’t even mention rates on their websites to avoid “sticker shock.” They worry that you’ll be overwhelmed before they have the chance to explain the process, payment plans, and the value an expert ghostwriter brings to the project.

The bottom line is that ghostwriting fees, especially when you hire an experienced ghostwriter, can be expensive. But the rate is expensive for a reason, as you’ll see later in this post.

Ghostwriting Fees

Low | Average | High

Yes, there are low, average, and high ghostwriting rates.

If you interview a ghostwriter who lowballs a quote, ask questions to ensure your investment is well spent. Even a low quote equals a substantial amount, so do your due diligence. If you hire a ghostwriter simply because he or she has quoted you a fraction of the going rate, you will likely get a fraction of the quality, professionalism, and industry know-how.

LOW. Inexperienced ghostwriters or “discount” ghostwriting companies might charge anywhere from $6,000 to $10,000. I recommend taking a hard look at their qualifications, training, experience, and industry expertise. For instance, plagiarism, fact-checking, and even proper grammar and punctuation become serious issues. Novice or part-time ghostwriters may not have a grasp on flow, pacing, and literary elements that bring beauty to narratives. They may not ghostwrite full-time and have issues with deliverables, either rushing through the project or lagging when it comes to deadlines.

HIGH. On the other extreme, celebrity ghostwriters charge higher rates that can exceed $100,000 or even $200,000.

AVERAGE: And then, there are highly qualified, experienced, and credentialed ghostwriters who charge average rates. I fall in this category and follow the Writers Market guide for pricing, written by Lynn Wasnak.

This industry rate sheet lists ghostwriting costs and is geared toward writing professionals, but I share it with author clients for transparency. You can see for yourself what to budget and that my quote is on target.

Check out the Writers Market rate sheet below to find standard industry ghostwriting fees — low, average, and high.

Why so expensive?

Excellent and highly qualified ghostwriters earn their ghostwriting fees, no doubt about it.

Ghostwriting projects can take six months to a year to complete. Research and fact-checking will likely be needed  — dates and timelines, ancestry, vital records, and interviews with family members and corporate players, etc. There may be boxes of documents to go through, transcripts to read, court records, letters, interviews with key people, and other efforts required to capture your authentic story.

Then there’s the writing itself — yes, ghostwriters can invest six months to a year — perhaps longer — while penning a compelling narrative, capturing your voice, and creating a manuscript that does your story justice.

There’s also the back and forth across time zones. I write for clients throughout the U.S., including Hawaii, and also for authors in Canada, Australia, and Europe. I cater to their time zones, not vice-versa. Therefore, when an author needs to correspond with me, I’m available regardless of where in the world the author may be.

I also add value to each project — decades of publishing experience, guidance, best practices, assistance with query letters and the search for an agent, and self-publishing advice for authors who wish to forego the traditional publishing route. This is included in my quote.

Read below about why a ghostwriting project may not be a budget buster after all.

Can You Negotiate the Cost of Hiring A Ghostwriter?

The quick answer is yes.

Ghostwriters look at various factors before offering a quote, such as degree of difficulty, supporting materials, ability to collaborate with the author, travel (in some cases), the deadline, and even the topic. Perhaps the author has partially written the manuscript and simply needs help finishing it. Perhaps the author wishes to write a book that happens to be near and dear to the heart of the ghostwriter — for example, charitable causes, military and veteran stories, spiritual journeys, navigating rare diseases, or a subject on which the ghostwriter is already an expert. In these cases, the ghostwriter might agree to discount the rate.

I look at the following:

Degree of difficulty — the genre (memoir, biography, autobiography, legacy book, corporate book, historical fiction, or even a fiction novel).

Availability of assets — notes, outlines, documents, journals, and supporting materials.

Ease of communication with the author — helpfulness, responsiveness, and ability to point me in the right direction for research, etc. can expedite a project.

Partial manuscript — perhaps you’ve already made inroads and have your manuscript partially written. This can vastly reduce the cost of the project because I can use your words as a platform, often wearing an editor’s hat, and then ghostwrite the missing components.

Timeline — longer deadlines may drastically cut costs because the ghostwriter is not operating under a “rush” status. Shorter deadlines may increase the cost because the ghostwriter is producing, for instance, a manuscript in four months versus six months, which is an incredibly difficult (and rare) feat. For shorter deadlines, a ghostwriter may drop everything to focus on the project and will likely work long days (twelve to fourteen hours) nonstop.

Are Ghostwriting Fees Really Outside of Your Budget?

A professional ghostwriter will very likely work with your budget. For instance, if paying half down is cost prohibitive, I offer payment plans, perhaps six payments in six months or twelve payments in twelve months, depending on your deadline. I do my best to be flexible and help you make your dream come true. I have had two-year projects as well, either because the project was intensely complicated or a two-year timeline accommodated the author’s budget.

There is nothing more remarkable than holding your published book in your hands and shouting to the world that you are an author! I want to make that as easy as possible for you.

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How Much Does a Ghostwriter Cost?

How much does a ghostwriter cost? This is perhaps the most pressing question we hear when writers are researching ghostwriting . Below, we’ll break down ghostwriting fees so you know what to expect when you hire a ghostwriter.

How Much Does a Ghostwriter Cost: Ghostwriting Fees

How much does a ghostwriter cost? Ghostwriters structure their fees based on a few key factors:

• Project length
• Project type or book genre ‍
• Ghostwriter experience level
• Ghostwriter demand

There are generally three types of fees to consider if you’re wondering how much does a ghostwriter cost:

Basic: This fee level applies to ghostwriters working on shorter pieces (like how-to guides, articles, blog posts, e-books, whitepapers, and business books). This category also consists of ghostwriters with less experience, or those just starting out. Sometimes, a freelance writer or content writer is the best choice here, as short, straightforward pieces demand less craft focus.

Standard: This fee level covers the average cost of ghostwriting services (LINK: https://manuscriptstudio.com/ghostwriting-services). This applies to ghostwriters who’ve written for published books placed with major publishers and/or have a list of credentials. This can also apply to ghostwriters that specialize in a niche category, for example, trauma memoir. When you want to know how much does a ghostwriter cost, this range is going to be quoted most frequently.

Premium: This fee bracket applies to ghostwriters who have written successful, well-known works for leading publishers, and “name” clients. A ghostwriter who is in high demand or has an impeccable client list will charge more, but they might also expect named credit as part of the book deal that arises from the collaboration. Additional remuneration might be part of a negotiated fee structure with a premium ghostwriter.

Ghostwriting Rates: How Much Does a Ghostwriter Cost Per Word?

Some ghostwriters charge per word, and sometimes there will be a sliding scale depending on the project’s overall length. Something to keep in mind is how much research your project requires, especially if you’re hiring a ghostwriter to write a nonfiction book. Memoirs also tend to involve comprehensive interviews, which take up a lot of time, in addition to writing time. Fiction requires robust outline and plot development . A per-word rate makes a lot of sense, but there are many invisible skills and requirements that make up that dollar amount. Research takes up additional time and effort, and costs more. 

How much does a ghostwriter cost? It also depends on whether they are creating material from scratch, or revising an existing draft. Ghost revision costs less than ghostwriting, as the ghostwriter isn’t creating an entirely new manuscript from a blank page.

Revisions are also often included in a ghostwriting package. Your ghostwriter should be able to clearly present what you’re getting and how many revisions you’re paying for before work begins. 

Basic: $0.20 to $0.40 per word

Standard: $0.50 to $1.00 per word

Premium: $2.00 to $4.00 per word

Ghostwriting Fees: How Much Does a Ghostwriter Cost Total?

Alternatively, ghostwriters can charge flat fees for a projected scope of work. Ideally, the flat fee will include the written content, revisions, and research. Make sure you know exactly what’s included, and what isn’t. How much does a ghostwriter cost if they charge flat fees?

For shorter projects (up to 10,000 words) expect to pay between $3,000 to $15,000.

For longer projects, for example, novels of approximately 50,000 words, or book-length nonfiction, you can expect to pay $20,000 and up:

Basic: $20,000 to $35,000

Standard: $50,000 to $75,000

Premium: $100,000 to $200,000, or more, depending on word count and scope of work

Ghostwriting is an art and a craft that demands many individual skills. How much does a ghostwriter cost? A lot. But for the right project and for a discerning buyer, no price is too high for the kind of prestige and dream fulfillment that working with a ghostwriter can provide.

If you’re looking to hire a ghostwriter for your project who is experienced and empathetic, consider reaching out to Manuscript Studio . Principal ghostwriter and book doctor Mary Kole has over a decade of insider publishing industry experience , working for a publisher, being a literary agent, and now a freelance editor and intellectual property developer. She knows every facet of the industry—from traditional to indie publishing—inside and out. Reach out via the contact form below to discuss your creative vision today.

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Ghostwriter Contracts & Fees

You will want to have your ghostwriter contract reviewed by a lawyer who has experience with such contracts, particularly if:

• You are concerned about maintaining strict confidentiality : While acknowledgement of ghostwriting assistance may have little impact on a memoir to be shared with family and friends, it can undermine the business model for other types of books.
• Y our project is going to involve a significant amount of money : Any contract that involves a large sum of money should be reviewed by a lawyer who can identify potential risks and missing elements.
• You anticipate your book will attract a great deal of publicity and earned income : Again, where a lot of money is involved, things can more easily go wrong.

Ghostwriter for hire: Ghostwriter contracts

While it’s impossible to anticipate every challenge that could arise in a ghostwriter work-for-hire situation, a legal contract creates clear expectations for both the product and the working relationship. A standard ghostwriting contract will include, but necessarily not be limited to:

• The name of the parties entering into the written ghostwriter agreement
• The purpose of the ghostwriter agreement : Be as specific as possible. Describe the book, the working title, the approximate number of pages, and any other products that will be produced in addition to the book.
• Plagiarism : You want to protect yourself from charges of plagiarism by explicitly stating that this is a contract for original work. [Note: when you provide material for the writer, be sure to indicate when material is not originally yours. Share all your sources with the writer, so that they can give appropriate credit to the original source.]
• Procedures : Describe how you will work together, including communication methods and meeting times. You may want to include a timeline for work.
• Product : Describe all the work to be done and who will be doing it. If you will be doing some of the work and the writer will do some of the work, be sure to break out the exact duties of each party. 
• Deadlines and deliverables expected of the ghostwriter and whether and when you will have access to the work.
• Revisions : Determine how revisions will be made and when additional revisions will trigger an additional fee.
• A schedule of payment , including any down payment and payments attached to given deliverables. Note that royalties are typically NOT paid to the ghostwriter but this will need to be included in the contract.
• Copyright : State who has ownership of copyright.
• Ghostwriter Credits : Will the ghostwriters’ name appear on the book – or not? How will it appear?
• Confidentiality : Not only might you want ghostwriter confidentiality about writing the book, you may also want to ensure he or she does not share confidential information gathered during the writing of the book. If that is the case, be sure that this requirement appears in the contract. 
• Termination agreement : When will this contract end? What if one of the parties needs to end it early?

Ghostwriter fees: What you can expect to pay

Fees vary widely based on experience and market. Your ghostwriting contract should specify how fees will be figured – for example, an hourly fee, a per word fee, a per page fee, or a per project fee. You may find that you mix and match fee structures for different parts of your project. For example:

• Writing a book proposal may be charged at an hourly rate ($40 to $250/hr.) or as a flat-fee per project ($7,000 to $18,000 or more, depending on the division of labor and the particular expertise of the writer).
• Research for a book is charged at an hourly ($15 to $150) or daily rate ($450 to $600). Some researchers with specific skills may charge more.
• Rewriting charges are hourly ($25 to $200) or at a per-project rate.
• Writing a children’s book for hire may be charged at an hourly rate ($50 to $125) or a per word charge of $1 to $10 per word.
• Ghostwriting fees for a book could be charged hourly ($30 to $200), per word ($1 to $3) or per project ($5,000 to $100,000 and even more, depending on the writer’s accomplishments and genre). More experienced ghostwriters tend to charge per project, with additional hourly fees if the project scope expands. Books for which the ghostwriter receives no credit are usually charged at a higher rate.

Writing a book is a complex skill and ghostwriting is even more advanced, as the ghostwriter must meet the goals and expectations of another person, even assuming their voice and tone. Expect to pay a premium for an experienced ghostwriter, like the ones to which Lisa Tener provides referrals . Books of 120 pages typically run from $15,000 to $35,000 (though can be more expensive for a particular skill set and expertise) and books of 250-pages start around $25,000 to $65,000 and up into the six figure realm. If your budget is below $12,000 for ghostwriting a short book or $20,000 for ghostwriting a full-length book, please do not ask us for a referral to a ghostwriter. We can recommend an editor for that budget range. For a very modest budget, you may want to check elance.com.

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Ghostwriting FAQ – The Cost of a Ghostwriter

by Laura Sherman

The most common questions I receive from prospective clients revolve around the cost of a ghostwriter. Hiring someone to write a book for you and then walk away from any credit or acknowledgment comes with a hefty price tag. If you’re wondering how you can predict the cost of a ghostwriter, I’ll do my best to help you.

How can I calculate the cost of a ghostwriter?

I’ve noticed that clients usually think in terms of the number of pages of a manuscript. However, professional ghostwriters always bid in terms of word count. It’s more precise. The spacing and font size shouldn’t enter into the calculation. However, if you prefer to think in terms of pages, just consider that there is an average of 250 words per page. So a short novella of 100 pages would be about 25,000 words.

When you approach a ghostwriter, you’ll need to know the rough word count of your proposed manuscript. This is understood to be a rough guess but will help the writer bid on your project. For instance, if you emailed me saying that you wanted me to complete a 200-page novel for you, I’d know that would be roughly 50,000 words (200 pages x 250 words/page), so I’d bid $50,000.

You can expect ghostwriters to charge anywhere from fifty cents to two dollars per word, so it just requires a little math to calculate the cost of a ghostwriter.

Is there a payment plan?

Yes. You shouldn’t be asked to pay the entire fee upfront. Instead, your writer will find a way to break up the payments for you. Personally, I prefer to work on a milestone approach, rather than a monthly draw. The four milestones that I use are:

• The completion of the outline (which includes research)
• The first half of the first draft
• The completion of the first draft
• The final delivery of the finished manuscript

The payments are always made ahead of the work, so you’ll pay 25% upon the signing of the contract. With that, I begin interviewing and researching the project. When I’m up to speed, I’ll present you with a detailed outline. Once you approve it, you’ll send another 25% payment and I’ll begin writing the first draft.

For example, if you’d contracted me to ghostwrite a 200-page book costing $50,000, each payment would be $12,500 paid ahead of the milestone.

Do you ever work for a share of the profits?

No, all ghostwriters need to be paid ahead of the work. You might not realize how many hours go into writing a book. That’s part of the reason the cost of a ghostwriter is so high. It requires hundreds of hours to research, interview, write, and edit a book for you. My ghostwriting process usually takes about a year.

Once the book is finished, it will take you months to reach out to literary agents. If you land one, it will take them another six months to a year to work with you to secure a publisher. Then the publisher will need a year or two to get the book ready for release. Once they do so, it will take a year or two before you begin to receive royalty checks.

Bottom line: the process isn’t fast, and ghostwriters can’t wait years to be paid.

I can’t afford that. What should I do?

I know the cost of a ghostwriter isn’t cheap. If you have a lower budget, email me and I’ll give you options. Sometimes I take on clients on an hourly basis, helping them to write the book themselves.

You can also take a stab at writing your book on your own and then hire an editor to help you polish your manuscript. If your draft is rough around the edges, it will probably cost $5,000 – $15,000 to make it publishable.

Whatever you do, don’t hire a cheap or “affordable” ghostwriter to complete your book. I know it might be tempting to go with a lowball offer from a ghostwriter you found on Craigslist . What if they could really complete your book for only $5,000? Although they might be able to provide you with the word count, you won’t be happy with the results. Most likely you’ll need to toss the manuscript and start over from scratch.

Remember, if you’re paying a fraction of the usual price, you’ll probably get a fraction of the quality.

Feel free to contact me at any time with questions about a ghostwriter’s cost. I’ll do my best to point you in the right direction. I’m here to help you get your book completed!

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Ghostwriting Rates & Fees

How much does it cost to hire a ghostwriter.

Every week I interview prospective clients for ghostwriter jobs. Meeting and getting to know people is among my favorite parts of what I do. One of the first questions prospective clients usually ask me is, how much do ghostwriters charge for their services? Read on to learn more about ghostwriting rates and fees.

How are ghostwriting rates, costs & fees determined?

However the interview begins, the question of cost always comes up and it is usually the most critical of the hiring process. Ghostwriting rates and fees tend to vary depending on a number of factors, including region, desired product, and the type of provider. When I first started out as a ghostwriter, I did an informal survey of my established colleagues, trying to decide how to come up with an effective price. One thing I learned from that exercise is that ghostwriting rates fall all over the map. 

Because of that experience, I honestly feel the frustration expressed by many of my prospective clients. Hiring a ghostwriter for your book project can sometimes make you feel like you’re out there flying blind. There is little guidance and, maddeningly, even less certainty. I’m here to say that finding the right ghostwriter for your novel, screenplay or memoir doesn’t have to be a lot of guesswork.

How do you learn how much ghostwriters charge? You ask them what their rates and fees are.

Ghostwriting rates, costs, & fees can vary greatly.

If you’ve explored available ghostwriters on the internet, you really understand that ghostwriting rates can vary. I spent a lot of time exploring the industry and I’m always surprised at the high costs some of my fellow writers charge and, naturally, the staggeringly low costs of others.

Are some ghostwriters merely closing their eyes, crossing their fingers, and throwing a dart at a board? Probably not but it feels like it sometimes.  

The cost of hiring a professional ghostwriter depends on several factors, including experience and expertise.

• On the low end, you could be looking at $5,000.
• On the high end, you may be looking closer to $150,000.

In general, sorting ghostwriters by price puts them into three categories.

On the lowest end there are what I think of as bargain writers. These are the professionals you see charging less than a dime per word, sometimes as low as a penny. How does that break down? Well, a penny a word ghostwriter will make approximately $600 for a book. However you look at it, that’s not a lot of money. When you factor in the amount of time, it’s practically criminal. 

So what about the upper end? The most expensive are what I like to call celebrity ghost writers. These are the cream of the crop professionals, ones who can comfortably charge two and three dollars per word. Where do you find these writers? Usually writing biographies and memoirs for celebrities (hence the name) like former presidents, politicians and public figures. Total book cost? Try $120,000.

The difference is absolutely staggering. What accounts for that range in ghostwriting rates?

There are a lot of factors that account for the disparity between those ghostwriter fees. One that comes to mind immediately is confidence. How confident a writer is in their worth will steer them higher (or, for newbies, lower). Another factor is skill. If a writer is adept at a certain type of writing, say political memoir or business writing, then they can charge top end rates. Exposure to a particular industry or field, then that pushes the rate even further. 

Another factor in ghostwriting rates is agency. Pro tip: where you shop really matters. Ghostwriter fees for large companies or agencies tend to be higher, almost double, than for an independent provider. The trouble with that reality is that those companies are usually working with a stable of sub contractors, that extra money you’re paying them goes to company overhead more than anything else.   

The main factor is experience. Ghostwriters who have been around for a while, know the business, writing high profile books, are able to demand that top dollar. One look at their publishing credits and past client list and it becomes abundantly clear where the premium comes from. 

On the opposite end, bargain writers, those you find posting up on Upwork, Fiverr and other reduced cost sites, don’t have necessary or compelling experience. If they did, they wouldn’t be working with those types of providers. They’ve either never written a book before, haven’t seen one of their projects published, or use English as a second language.

If you’re hiring a ghostwriter, the first thing you need to know is what do I need? Ask yourself: should I try to cut corners by bringing in a bargain ghostwriter? Do I splurge?

The right ghostwriter rate for you is one you feel comfortable paying.

Go into the process of hiring your ghostwriter knowing what you can afford to pay. For a full-length book, anywhere from 50-75,000 words, you’re looking at making a considerable investment.

If you pay too much, you run the risk of running out of money before the payments are done. Try and cut corners on cost, you could be disappointed with the work you see along the way.

After twenty years as a ghostwriter, I have settled on a flexible range of rates instead of trying to offer something set in stone. That’s why you won’t see a price sheet on my site. Why a range? I like offering my clients some flexibility. It gives someone looking at the process the opportunity to fit themselves in.

My ghostwriting rate range for original work falls between $.80 and $1.25 per finished word. Considering experience and skill, this places me firmly in the middle. 

What does the term “finished word” mean? Most professional ghostwriter fees are, for the most part, based on the finished manuscript word. This is the number of words when the project is done. If the first draft is 70,000 words but the finished draft is 60,000 then that’s what you pay for. 

Why finished word? Over the years, I’ve tried monthly fees and hourly rates, but nothing really translates to quality for both me and the client like per word. 

How does payment for Ghostwriters work?

Book writing fees are, for the most part, broken into three (or, in some instances, four) payments. When I make a ghostwriting contract with a new client, I split the payments up like this: one third of the total is due when the contract is signed, one third when the outline is completed and agreed upon, and one third when the book is done. In some instances, when a client requests a four payment plan (usually for larger, higher cost projects) I break the total into quarters, adding the fourth payment when I submit the first draft. 

Breaking payments up makes a lot of sense and it is something you should, when negotiating ghostwriting rates, insist on. Paying a large percentage up front tends to dampen the ghostwriter’s incentive to finish; holding out on making payments until deep into the project causes a lag in the beginning phases. Equal payments makes things affordable and keeps everyone motivated to get the project completed. The total cost of a book is a lot for most people to bite off in one payment, which is another reason why a client friendly payment plan is important. 

Bottom line is that ghostwriter fees need to make sense for your total budget. I also think they need to make sense for getting the project done right. 

What do I mean by this? I’ll try to illustrate by example. 

Recently, I worked with a client whose novel ghostwriting project had fallen apart. After an extensive search of ghostwriting providers, they brought me on to rescue the project. Once we agreed on a fair ghostwriting rate, we re-wrote the outline, fixed gaping plot holes and ultimately, crafted a cast of stronger, more relatable characters. Our work was, I thought, quite a success. When we were done, they had a finished novel, something they could self-publish with confidence.

What went wrong for this client? They let budget, the basic desire to pay as little as possible for their service, influence their overall decision.

The ghostwriter they went with originally worked for an agency. They had never finished writing a novel before. With just a few short stories to their credit (none of them published) and a bargain basement price to entice, the client thought they were getting a deal. The book, at least they thought, would get done for a fraction of the cost. 

Is that what happened? No. What happened represented a far more discouraging outcome, one I really hate to hear, even if I was able to help. Once the ghostwriter fees were paid, the writer started on the book, but they claimed to run into trouble. It took them months to complete the novel’s first act and when that was done, it became clear that the quality wasn’t up to snuff. I cringed when the client told me, “It almost seems like they didn’t understand how to write a novel.”

It brought me no joy to say, the client was absolutely right. The ghostwriter they hired, and paid for, had no idea how to write a high-level, publishable novel. They came from a provider that had a web presence, a rate that sounded too good to be true and, unfortunately, results to prove that.

The most expensive projects are not defined by how high or low the price tag is. In my estimation, they’re defined by their probability of success.

If the ghostwriters fees are unreasonably small then you need to consider why. Just look at the total cost paid for the service. $600? Who can afford to live off of that kind of money? 

The same can be said for ghostwriters fees at the other end of the spectrum. I talked earlier about providers whose rates can push into the high five/low six figure range. $100,000 for a book is a steep cost and, for that money, you’re almost guaranteed to get a real professional. But ask yourself this – is that cost one you could comfortably afford? Even broken up into quarters, that’s $25,000 a pop. 

I’ve heard a few of my colleagues talk about clients that drop off the map. One month they’re there, working on the book, the next, they’re not taking calls.

Why does this happen? In a lot of these unfortunate instances, I think, it’s because the ghostwriter rates they agreed to were far too much than they could really afford. But because they identified with quality and professionalism (not necessarily bad things to identify with, to be honest) they thought the top dollar, celebrity ghostwriter fit what they were looking for. A few payments in, maybe a life change, and suddenly, those big invoices become a burden.

What do both of those examples have in common? To me, the situations are equally unfortunate and end up in a similarly sad state. Well-meaning clients with excellent ideas don’t get to see their desired end product because they didn’t understand common sense ghostwriter rates.

Interested in learning more about my ghostwriting rates & services?

How much do ghostwriters charge for their services? 

Ghostwriting rates explained.

Every one of us is a little different. Not a week goes by that I don’t communicate with one of my colleagues about their services. I have come to learn that we each offer a special set of skills, an array of unique services, and connection to the project. The best professionals work to create an affordable ghostwriting rate that offers two things at the same time: a high level of value to their client while also paying them commensurately with what they bring to the table. 

Things change, too. The costs for services goes up over time (just like everything else) while the demand for certain services change too. 

When I started out as a ghostwriter, going back twenty years now, I made a lot of the mistakes I’ve talked about here. Hungry for work, I charged my clients too little. Other times, when I thought I had something figured out, my ghostwriting rates were out of whack with the market on the other side.

The bottom line is that ghostwriting rates need to make sense for both the client and writer. They need to be structured in a way that makes payment intuitive and affordable. 

Most importantly, rates and services need to orient toward completing high quality, publishable, books that audiences will adore. Affordability really comes down to that. 

Contact me for a service quote

If you are serious about hiring a professional ghostwriter for your book, screenplay, or non-fiction story, or you need help with editing or self-publishing your manuscript, please contact me.

Every new contact receives a free 30-minute 1:1 consultation about their ghostwriting project or manuscript consultation.

Additionally, I offer all independent and self-publishing authors a 10% discount on my already affordable services.

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Last updated on Jul 08, 2024

How Much Do Ghostwriters Make: The Ultimate Breakdown

About linnea gradin.

The editor-in-chief of the Reedsy Freelancer blog, Linnea is a writer and marketer with a degree from the University of Cambridge. Her focus is to provide aspiring editors and book designers with the resources to further their careers.

This article was written with insights from Reedsy Marketplace, as well as professional ghostwriters Alex Foster and Alice Sullivan .

“How much do ghostwriters make?” That’s a question both aspiring ghosts and those with some experience should ask themselves. The short answer is that ghostwriters can make anywhere from $42,000+ for a book and to $2,000 for shorter-form content. Of course, the longer answer is that it will depend on the type and genre of content, as well as the experience of the ghostwriter.

Because of its shadowy nature, it can be hard to find out what other ghostwriters make and how to cost your own projects. As a result, ghostwriting can sometimes be grossly undercharged, particularly in the publishing industry. To help you set reasonable  rates that match your niche and expertise and build up your income , here’s our breakdown of ghostwriting fees, based on thousands of projects on Reedsy in the last 24 months.

How much should you charge as a ghostwriter?

Every ghostwriting project is different — one might involve writing an article, and another can be crafting a whole book. The scopes of these tasks are very different, and the rates will vary accordingly. Ultimately, how much you charge should reflect how much research and writing you have to do, how much costs you will incur along the way, and the value of the service you produce. In other words, there isn’t a one-size-fits-all rate that works for every ghostwriter under the sun.

That said, this isn’t what clients want to hear when they ask about your service. They expect a quote that helps them compare freelancers and decide who to hire. On top of that, you yourself may be wondering if you’re under or overcharging. In either case, you might find use in knowing an average range of ghostwriting rates in different genres and industries. So, we’ve put together some estimates here.

Generally, depending on the work you do, you can charge:

by the word

by the hour

by the project

Based on Reedsy data, ghostwriting rates for book writing can range from roughly $0.10 to $2.50 per word, $35 to $140 per hour, or $1,500 to $42,000 per project. Let’s take a closer look at the breakdown.

❗ Note: The rates below are estimates — you should consider your own needs and skills, and negotiate with your client before setting a fee.

Range: $0.10 to $4 per word Often applies to: articles and web content, manuscript rewrites, book descriptions

Charging per word is the most obvious sort of payment, since you get paid according to how much you write. However, it doesn’t account for resources spent on researching and outlining your writing, and so it’s more suitable for shorter projects. Ghostwriter Alex Foster , experienced in both fiction and nonfiction writing, shares that he charges per word only if the project is below the typical word count range for a book — in other words, below 50,000.

However, if you’re curious about what this would look like when applied to book writing, here is a breakdown of the average cost range for book ghostwriting by genre and word count:

For book-related projects, Reedsy's ghostwriters charge an average of 30 cents per word. The most popular genre of ghostwriting is biography and memoir, for which ghostwriters charge $0.35 per word on average. The most lucrative genre is general nonfiction (which includes subgenres such as business, religion and spirituality, health and well-being, etc.), for which Reedsy ghostwriters charge $0.52 per word on average.

If you work with marketing content or other types of short-form content, the rate is usually a little higher. But, to reiterate, it might not be in your interest to charge per word if you’re writing long-form content such as books. So let’s see if you should charge per hour instead.

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Range: $35-$140 per hour Often applies to: consultation, reviewing

There are very few occasions when you would charge per hour for ghostwriting projects. In professional ghostwriter Alice Sullivan ’s experience, most editorial jobs in traditional publishing are paid per hour, but freelance ghostwriters are almost always paid per project. In indie publishing, hourly rates are also uncommon for ghostwriting services. Clients are averse to collaborations charged this way because they’re wary of inefficiency, and ghostwriters themselves feel like they’re punished for efficiency. It’s a lose-lose situation which is not really conducive to a happy partnership.

So, in what situations could you still consider charging by the hour?

• If you’re working on a critique or review of a draft.
• If you’re acting as a publishing or marketing consultant, advising clients on voice and content.

These services may warrant the hourly wage, although you’ll notice that they don’t involve as much writing. After all, writing is a creative endeavor that can be hard to measure by the hour; some hours are spent pondering and imagining, while others are spent writing and rewriting. That’s why it can be easier to charge per project.

Range: $2,000 to $70,000+ per project Often applies to: manuscript writing, book proposal writing, query letter writing, etc.

If you’re ghostwriting a whole book, you might have a rough word count in mind, but it’s best to settle on a flat fee that would cover the research, the writing, and a couple of rounds of manuscript revision. Alice Sullivan says: “I aim for a six to seven months timeline, but [projects] can also stretch out to over a year.” If you charge per project, you can be paid a fixed rate either in one go or in installments throughout the collaboration. We recommend the latter, but either way, knowing how much is coming into your account and when allows you to plan for your sustenance.

So, how do you know how much to charge for your project? Again, it is a combination of what type of content you’re writing, the scope of the project and time required to complete it, the genre, and your experience as a ghost. Let’s refer back to our averages from earlier: 

Beginner ghostwriters can expect to make anything between $2,000 and $9,000 per book. If you have a fair amount of experience under your belt, the average rises to around $30,000 to $60,000 per book. And if you've got several bestsellers under your belt, or if you're represented by agents, you’ll be looking at six-figure fees. For book proposals that help clients land book deals, the typical price starts at about $5,000.

So, on a more practical level, how do you actually land on your final quote and present it to clients?

How should you write a quote for book projects?

Book writing services are almost always charged per project. But bear in mind that the ghostwriter may also be expected to help with other parts of the project. As such, writing a good ghostwriting quote entails taking the whole publishing process into account. From writing to editing to submitting to publishers, here are important things to keep in mind when creating a ghostwriting quote for a book.

Consider basic factors

Alice explains that when coming up with her quote, she considers “the word count, timeline, whether there's any existing material (and if it's even usable), and whether I'll need to do any research for the project.”

As a ghostwriter, research also includes the time it might take to get to know your client well enough to capture their voice and story. This work starts already before you send them your bid, as you work out the scope of the project and your client’s vision. It also includes the time it might take to interview them if you’re writing a memoir. Because ghostwriting projects often stretch over several months, these initial stages are extra important, as you want to make sure that you both align and won’t bump into any issues later down the line. So, ideally, when you send your quote for a project, you should consider and allow plenty of time for this stage, not just the writing stage. 

Another thing to consider is how many (if any) rewrites you will include in your initial price.

Clarify your responsibility to revise

With seven years of experience, Alex Foster has worked with a range of clients, including those who would “push you to do half a dozen additional revision phases.” To protect yourself, your time, and your bottom line, “you need contractual ways to mitigate this” and should “always try to be as specific as possible in [your] contracts.” Any revision beyond what you first agreed upon should be charged extra, perhaps with an hourly rate on an ad hoc basis.

An additional tip from Alex is to set payments according to project deliverables (e.g. a book outline, two sample chapters), “so if for any reason [you and your client] decide to stop working together, it's pretty simple to determine what the refund amount would be.”

For more advice from Alex and other pro ghosts on Reedsy,  check out our post with 21 ghostwriting tips to improve your craft.

Offer relevant services

If you have experience in the publishing industry, you’ll know that writing the manuscript is just one part of the process of getting a book out into the world. An author going down the traditional route would likely have to:

• Write a query letter to be sent to literary agents , if they’re writing a fiction book;
• Prepare a book proposal even before completing a manuscript, if their project is nonfiction.

And while indie authors won’t have to query or submit their work, they might want help with writing marketing materials, such as:

• A book description for the book's Amazon page ;
• Content for their personal website ;
• Newsletters to their readers.

These are all services you can offer in addition to writing the manuscript. As the writer, you're likely the best person to introduce the book to publishers and readers.

These extra tasks can be grouped into a packaged deal with a higher quote. If you do decide to include them in your freelance offer , remember to break things down clearly. Let clients know exactly what they’re paying for, and give them a chance to decide whether they want the full deal. 

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Should you agree to get paid in royalties?

The quick answer is no. You should not agree to a ghostwriting project in exchange for a cut of the royalties. According to Alice Sullivan, this might be a viable option if you’re working via an agent. The agent can ensure you get a fair percentage , and that payments are made on time. But when you’re dealing with indie authors, income from royalties won’t be as stable. 

Negotiating for a fair division between author and ghost won’t be easy, and you’ll have to be ready to chase authors for payment. Besides, you can never be sure if the book will sell, if you’ll get any royalties at all, or how much you’ll get paid, which introduces uncertainty into your business that is rarely worth the risk.

You can still accept royalty payments as a bonus to the agreed payment but don’t expect a lot of authors to offer that. That is, unless you’re…

Getting credit as a ghostwriter

Sometimes, the author agrees to name the ghost as a co-author, meaning the ghost gets their name on the cover! How much do ghostwriters make in this scenario? Ghosts can get from 8% to 50% of royalties, depending on how negotiations with the author go.

Most of the time, though, authors hire ghostwriters precisely because they need a ghost, a.k.a. someone readers won’t see. That doesn’t mean that they will ignore your efforts altogether. Some ways authors use to accredit ghostwriters are:

• Include the ghostwriter’s name on the copyright page underneath the author’s name;
• Thank the ghostwriter in the introduction/foreword or acknowledgments in the back;
• Writing a testimonial that ghosts can show future clients.

Even if an author is considerate and acknowledges you in their book, graciousness shouldn’t be used as a point of negotiation. In other words, if acknowledgment is their way to compensate you while only paying you in royalties, you shouldn’t accept it. Writing a book is hard work, and you should get paid what you’re worth!

With that final note, you’ve now got a solid grasp of how much ghostwriters make, and how they get paid. Hopefully, this’ll help you determine your own rates so that you can go forth and find more ghostwriting jobs and projects !

For information about how to  showcase your experience ,  get more clients , or notifications about free webinars, check out our  blog  and follow us on  LinkedIn .

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Academic Ghostwriting by ACAD WRITE

Professional ghostwriting services with 18 years’ experience.

Academic ghostwriting by ACAD WRITE is the ideal solution for your academic paper or thesis. For 18 years, our agency has been convincing its customers with high-quality and discrete writing services . Our competent and reliable ghostwriters do not only provide support in academic writing but also in empirical research and statistical data analysis, for example, for your bachelor or master thesis

Here You find Reliable Help with Your Studies

ACAD WRITE is specialised in providing its customers with flexible and versatile support. All our ghostwriters are experts in their field and have the necessary skills for employing scientific tools. However, they do not only provide support in academic writing but also in statistical data analysis or by professionally proof-reading and editing your paper. From the beginning of your studies up to your habilitation – at our academic ghostwriting agency you will find the right support during all stages of your university research project or academic career. Amongst others, the following services are part of our specialist authors’, statisticians’ and ghostwriters’ core areas:

Essays, term and seminar papers Bachelor , master and doctoral theses Exposés and research applications Scientific publications Literature research Statistical analysis Proofreading and editing Legal opinions and solution sketches Medical writing Dissertation consulting for doctoral students

In all these areas, ACAD WRITE offers support tailored to your individual requirements and university’s guidelines. You will benefit from a system which has proven itself for more than 18 years and which guarantees our customers the highest quality and satisfaction.

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Professional and Versatile Academic Ghostwriting: Only Subject Experts Write for ACAD WRITE

We pride ourselves on our agency’s pool of authors including more than 400 hand-selected experts from nearly every scientific field. No matter if you are looking for help in writing a seminar paper in Roman provincial archaeology, a master thesis in engineering, or a dissertation in legal studies – we have the right ghostwriter for you who can provide the exact support you need. Not for nothing, ACAD WRITE has been the matchmaker for academic success.

Business, legal, MINT, or medical studies? Our ghostwriters’ skills and subject knowledge are versatile and also armed for the topic of your thesis!

ACAD WRITE composes quality-guaranteed seminar, bachelor and master theses

The experienced quality management of our academic ghostwriting service guarantees you the best results for papers and theses produced by ACAD WRITE. Not only our ghostwriters’ competence vouches for that. At our agency, even your smaller projects will benefit from several delivery steps including free feedback and correction loops. Our ACAD office ® allows you to stay in direct contact with your ghostwriter throughout the whole project execution while simultaneously protecting your identity. Before its final delivery, your project will be proofread by our professional editing service. By means of this dual-control principle, we can ensure that the work is linguistically and textually of high quality and academically unique, which we also confirm to you by a meticulous plagiarism assessment. Before, during and after your project, we offer you a secure SSL connection for the transmission of your data, while our Switzerland-based server ensures the best security and adherence to strict data protection standards.

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My rates vary according to the type of work you require. Please use my rates as a general guideline until I have seen a copy of your work (if it’s editing or proofreading) or you have briefed me on the scope of your project (if I am going to be ghostwriting for you), and I am in a better position to determine the amount of work required.

All rates are in South African rands (ZAR), so please use them as a guide if you are visiting my website from outside South Africa. I work with clients all over the world, from the UK to the USA to Africa to Europe to Australia to New Zealand and beyond, so please feel free to use a currency converter if you would like to gauge an approximate cost for your particular project.

PROOFREADING

Your manuscript/article/thesis/blog (etc.) is good to go and has already been professionally edited and requires a final check for minor typos before publishing:

– Proofreading Magazines: 25c per word (ZAR) – Proofreading Fiction:  25c per word (ZAR) – Proofreading Nonfiction, Textbooks and Technical Documentation: R55 per page (ZAR) – All work to be submitted in electronic format

For a rough cost estimate of what it might cost you in South African Rands (ZAR) to have your manuscript proofread, drag the slider below to the right (or, if you're on a desktop, press on your right arrow key) until it matches your manuscript's word count.

Word Count: 0 words

Estimated Cost: ZAR 0.00

COPY-EDITING

Your manuscript/article/thesis/blog (etc.) is well-written and complete but requires a thorough review to check for grammatical errors, unnecessary verbosity, spelling errors, punctuation issues, and general flow and readability before being submitted to a proofreader for a final proofread:

– General documents: 55c per word (ZAR) – Fiction: 55c per word (ZAR) – Website copy: 55c per word (ZAR) – Nonfiction, Textbooks and Technical Documents: 65c per word (ZAR) – Children’s books under 6000 words: R750 per hour – All work to be submitted in electronic format

For a rough cost estimate of what it might cost you in South African Rands (ZAR) to have your manuscript copy-edited, drag the slider below to the right (or, if you're on a desktop, press on your right arrow key) until it matches your manuscript's word count.

SUBSTANTIVE (CONTENT) EDITING

Your manuscript/article/thesis/blog (etc.) requires an in-depth review, proofread, and possibly even a full or partial rewrite (especially when it does not read well, the use of the English language is questionable, or there are obvious errors in terms of your plot or use of characterisation) before being submitted to a copy-editor or proofreader for final checks.

– From 65c – 70c per word (ZAR) – Children’s books under 6000 words: R750 per hour – All work to be submitted in electronic format

For a rough cost estimate of what it might cost you in South African Rands (ZAR) to have a substantive (content) edit done on your manuscript, drag the slider below to the right (or, if you're on a desktop, press on your right arrow key) until it matches your manuscript's word count.

GHOSTWRITING

My basic ghostwriting rate (excluding editing, proofreading, publishing, cover design and typesetting) starts at R600.00 (ZAR) per hour but will vary according to the type of work involved and if long-distance travel is required.

Our information gathering sessions are a critical part of the ghostwriting process, so it is important that you have all your ducks in a row. From a budgeting perspective, the more prepared you are, and the less you stray from the topic, the better. My recommendation is to set aside a minimum of 20-30 hours of recording time, bearing in mind that our time together can increase significantly depending on the nature of the material being covered.

Transcribing the audio recordings to text is time-hungry and can take up to 5 hours per 1 hour of recorded interview time.

AT MINIMUM , the entire process, from start to finish, can take in the region of between 250 and 320 hours for a 220-page book (with 200 to 220 words per page). If additional research is required, or a longer interview time is necessary, or if the content is complex to work with, the hours can increase exponentially. This is often the case with anything that isn’t biographical in nature.

You would, therefore, need to budget a bare minimum of between ZAR180,000 and ZAR220,000 for a completed 220-page, 45 000-word manuscript , if that’s the size book you’re aiming for. To date, however, most of the books I’ve worked on have come in between R250,000 and R350,000 (with several coming in significantly higher than this). My suggestion is always to budget high. If I can come in lower than your budgeted amount, I most certainly will, but a realistic budget linked to a fair energy exchange definitely helps manage expectations from both sides.

In terms of my billing cycles, I will invoice you in advance for the first 40 hours’ work, and then bill you in advance for every subsequent 40 to 60 hours, based on your budget. This will give you full control over the amount of work that is being done at any one time and ensure that you keep within your budgeted amount.

INDEPENDENT PUBLISHING

Before I can work with you to get your book independently published and internationally listed in e-book and/or paperback format, your book must be print ready – in other words, it must have passed through the editing and proofreading phase and been professionally typeset (in PDF format for your paperback and ePub for your e-book). It must also be accompanied with a full-wrap cover (front cover, spine, and back cover), or just a front cover, if you’re only going the e-book route.

My fee to list and independently publish your book (complete with extensive keyword and genre research and competitor analysis) ranges from R2250 to R3900, depending on which platforms you would like to publish on, in which formats you would like to publish (e.g. e-book, paperback, or both), and how wide you want your reach to be. For example, you might only want to make your paperback and e-book available to Amazon customers, or you might want to make your book available on as many platforms as possible – or you might want to sit somewhere in the middle. My advice is to go as wide as possible (Publishing Package #10), but if your budget is limited, I would suggest Publishing Package #3 (Amazon only).

These are the different publishing packages I have on offer:

Publishing Package #1

• Publish e-book on Amazon Kindle only

Publishing Package #2

• Publish paperback on Amazon KDP only

Publishing Package #3

• Publish e-book on Amazon Kindle
• Publish paperback on Amazon KDP

Publishing Package #4

• Publish e-book on Draft2Digital (to sell on all digital platforms other than Amazon)

Publishing Package #5

• Publish paperback on IngramSpark (for international distribution into bookshops and other online retailers)

Publishing Package #6

• Publish e-book on Draft2Digital only (to sell on all other digital platforms other than Amazon)

Publishing Package #7

• Publish paperback on IngramSpark only (for international distribution into bookshops and other online retailers)

Publishing Package #8

Publishing package #9, publishing package #10, publishing package #11.

• Add A+ Content to your book's product page on Amazon

Add A+ Content to Your Already-Published Book's Page on Amazon

If you’re feeling your way around and you’re not sure where to begin (or you’re stuck somewhere in the process and require guidance to get you over the finish line), we can set up a Zoom consultation session to discuss your project in more detail. If being in front of the camera is not your thing, I’d be happy to chat over the phone using WhatsApp.

My consulting rate is R750 per 40-minute session.

Introducing Gotham GHOSTMASTERS

A professional development program that’s all business, ghostmasters 101: how to break into the business of ghostwriting.

How To Hire A Ghostwriter

• By Gotham Ghostwriters

Over the last several years, our agency has brokered more than 500 successful writing collaborations. The most important insight we have gained from this matchmaking work, as we often note to new authors, is that working with a ghostwriter is a lot like getting married for a moment. Our clients make their careers, their lives, even their families an open book to their collaborators—which often makes for an intense, emotionally trying experience that demands reliability, care, and commitment. 

In the last installment of our Ghostwriting Confidential , we encouraged authors beginning their search for a ghost to keep this guiding principle top of mind—and to think about picking a writing partner like choosing a life partner. To find the ideal match, first get clarity about your goals and priorities, and then look for the right person for your project. That not only means the requisite skills and experience, but choosing someone you can unequivocally trust to capture your vision and protect your story.

Today, we look at the second half of this partner-picking journey: how to get to “yes” once you have found your match. Just as with getting engaged to a future spouse, we advise a shift in focus at this point from “I” to “we.” It’s not like hiring a plumber or electrician. You are building a relationship with your writer, one that requires a foundation of trust. As such, you can’t just think about what you want out of the deal. You also have to consider your partner’s interests and priorities, and how they might feel about the arrangement once work begins.

So with this installment, we provide a primer on how to strike the right balance and reach the right bargain with the writing partner you’ve chosen to work with. In particular, we cover:

• How to see things from the ghost’s perspective
• How to negotiate a mutually acceptable fee
• How to work out the rest of a balanced agreement

Putting Yourself in the Ghostwriter’s Shoes

Before you jump into a negotiation with a ghost, it’s a good idea to get a full understanding of the ghostwriting marketplace and how ghosts typically like to structure their arrangements. Doing so will not only give you some perspective on your ghost’s expectations, but also provide some baseline standards to work from once you start your negotiation.

Bookwriting Fees

As we noted in the last installment of this series, one of the central challenges of hiring a ghostwriter is the lack of transparency and standardization when it comes to pricing. Most ghosts prefer set project fees over hourly rates. But prices can vary greatly depending on such factors as the complexity and time demands of the project, the caliber and experience level of the writer you choose to engage with, and, to some degree, where the writer is based. Some of the writers we work with charge $30,000 to do a short memoir or self-help book, while our most elite writers charge upwards of $300,000 to do a “big-think” book or CEO memoir for a major publisher.

That said, most of the non-fiction projects we place writers on in the U.S. fall into three ranges:

• Basic : To hire a competent, professional ghost to do a straightforward memoir, or business book, or how-to guide, the average price is $30,000 to $60,000.
• Mid-market : To hire a more credentialed writer, who has written books for major publishers, to produce a more time-intensive, sophisticated work, you should expect to pay in the range of $75,000 to $150,000.
• Elite : To hire a collaborator who has written multiple New York Times bestsellers to produce a Malcolm Gladwell- or Thomas Friedman-caliber book, you should expect a price tag of anywhere from $150,000 to $300,000.

Fiction writing tends to fall into similar ranges when it comes to the experience level of the writer, but with very little correlation between genre and price point.

Proposal Fees

If your goal is to sell your book to a trade publisher, and your name is not Oprah or Obama, then chances are you will have to first develop a proposal for an agent to shop to different publishing houses before you write the full book. For this service, the price range is definitely more standardized. The going rate for an accomplished ghost to write a full-length proposal is about $10,000. There are certain elite writers who charge anywhere from $15,000 to $25,000, especially for big-think books that require some original research and/or interviews. At the other end of the spectrum, there are a number of writers whose fees range from $5,000 to $7,500. 

For some genres, such as memoirs, you may need to develop both a full manuscript and a proposal before an agent will shop your book, and in those cases, it is sometimes possible to “bundle” proposal and book together for a discounted fee—if a writer is already developing a full manuscript, then some of the elements of the proposal (e.g., sample chapters, chapter outlines) will require less additional work than if they are creating a proposal from scratch.

Pay Structures

How and when ghosts get paid also tends to be more standardized. It’s fairly common for ghosts to split their payments into halves or thirds in order to balance their interests with those of their clients. They typically ask for a good chunk of money upfront to lock in their time—there is an opportunity cost to committing to work with an author, so ghosts are careful to guard against getting ghosted themselves. And then they will get another sizeable chunk upon completion to signal to the client they will see the project through to the end. Beware, though, of any ghost who asks for the entire fee upfront. Such a request would be unprofessional and a big red flag about that writer’s ethics and commitment.

At the same time, don’t be surprised if a ghost proposes an alternative payment schedule, such as a monthly retainer. For example, if the fee is $60,000 and the project is scheduled to take six months, they may ask for $10,000 a month, thereby waiving a bigger upfront payment in exchange for more regular income. Such a pay-as-you-go plan generally works in the author’s favor, especially if the relationship does not gel as expected and it becomes necessary to terminate the agreement in the early stages. Either way, it’s useful to ask the ghosts you are considering as finalists about how they like to structure their pay ahead of time, so you have a good idea what to expect once it’s time to talk turkey.

Percentage Deals

A question we often get from new clients is whether a ghostwriter might agree to “split the profits” instead of getting paid a set fee. For the overwhelming majority of cases, the answer is “no,” because most non-fiction books written by ghostwriters—even those that get sold to major publishers—don’t generate any royalties. An experienced ghost will not be inclined to sacrifice even some—let alone all—of their guaranteed compensation in exchange for the possibility your book strikes lightning. If you find someone who will, it’s probably a warning sign that they are not a reliable professional.

There are two primary exceptions to this rule. If you are a prominent public figure with a major platform and already have an agent—or are a sure thing to get one—then a ghost may well be open to a deal structure wherein they get a share of the advance (usually in the range of 30 to 50 percent) and the royalties (the profit an author makes after the publisher earns back the advance). The other exception is when an author has limited means but a dynamite story that has a realistic chance of not only getting sold to a publisher but being turned into a film or TV property as well. In those rare cases, a ghost who falls in love with the story may roll the dice, waive their up-front fee, and go in as a 50-50 partner.

Negotiating a Balanced Fee

Once you have done your homework and have a baseline understanding of how ghosts get paid, you will be ready to hash out the core terms of an agreement with your chosen writing partner from a position of both strength and empathy. But where do you start? And more importantly, how do you finish at a place you will both feel good about?

From our experience brokering hundreds of such deals, here are a few best practices to follow.

Set the right tone . The key to building trust with a writer and getting the negotiations off on the right foot is to show them you value their work and their time. As we noted in the last installment of the series, you can do that early in the search process by being transparent about your budget to see how it aligns with their normal fee range. If you are in the same ballpark at that stage, it’ll be much easier to reach a workable price once you’re at the negotiating table. On the other hand, the surest way to alienate a writer and doom a deal is to press them early and often for a hard quote before you have even chosen to collaborate with them. 

Ask for a proposal . Some clients feel more confident and in control of the negotiating process when they are the ones making the first move through an offer. But based on our experience, authors tend to get better results by having prospective ghostwriters submit a terms proposal. It’s a gesture of respect that can earn some good will. It’s also a test of the writer’s regard for your priorities. If they ask for substantially more than the budget range you’d previously discussed, then they may not be the right partner for you. 

Make a reasonable counter . Most ghosts are not going to start with their bottom-line request. So if your writer asks for more than you’d prefer to spend, come back with a counter offer you could both live with. To increase the chances the ghost will be receptive, don’t present it as a take-it-or-leave-it proposition, but as something you’d just feel more comfortable with. Also, look for ways to offer a concession somewhere else. Maybe propose paying slightly more money up front. Or some kind of performance bonus. Or a “with” credit on the cover.

Don’t nickel and dime . Once you get close to a final number, keep the big picture in mind. You want to start your collaboration with a partner who feels appreciated and therefore will be fully invested in your success. Saving a few thousand dollars up front with multiple rounds of haggling is not worth all the cost down the line in terms of bad will and diminished commitment. Keep the negotiating rounds to the barest minimum. If you can’t get to “yes” in three passes or less, it’s not meant to be.

Cover the other money issues. Authors understandably tend to focus most of their initial attention on the size of the ghostwriter’s fee. But when you’re hammering out the core deal points, it’s a good idea to iron out any other compensation issues that matter to you both before you move to papering the deal. Have the writer include their requests in the terms proposal—from the payment schedule to royalty splits to cover credit (which is a commodity of value). This will provide you with a roadmap to the writer’s priorities beyond their fee to see what bargaining chips you have to play.

If you want a sample, be prepared to pay for it. Hiring a ghostwriter is a big commitment, so it’s understandable that some authors may feel more comfortable getting a sample of the sort of work they might expect from a potential partner before they sign a contract. But keep in mind that writing is how writers make their living, and as the saying goes, if you’re good at something, never do it for free. So if you choose to go down this road and ask for a trial chapter, be prepared to pay an appropriate fee for their time.

Completing a Balanced Agreement

After you have worked out the core deal points with your writer, the process of finalizing a contract—or a collaboration agreement, as we usually call it—should be relatively easy. You will, however, still need to get on the same page about some critical matters from the outset in order to avoid a potential rupture down the line. 

To make that process as frictionless as possible, it makes sense to start with an agreement template the writer typically uses. Again, just like asking them to submit a terms proposal to start the negotiating phase, deferring to them on the initial contract draft helps build good will. And as a practical matter, it saves you the time and expense of hiring a publishing attorney to draw up something that will be fairly close in the fundamentals anyway. You get more value from paying a knowledgeable lawyer to advise you on and mark up the writer’s starting draft.

In the meantime, here is a cheat sheet for the most important issues to raise and address in writing.

If you have an external deadline you need to meet for whatever reason, it’s essential to communicate it up front and make sure the ghostwriter has the bandwidth to realistically meet it. Otherwise, we recommend outlining a target date for completion that you are both comfortable with and does not penalize the writer for failing to meet. The fact is, most missed deadlines are due to delays on the author’s part, so writers are rightly wary of being held liable for things that are outside their control. 

Scope of Work

Seems kind of obvious to say, but the agreement should specifically spell out the services the writer will provide. For example, will they be expected to start with a proposal? Or finish with a copy edit? This section should also detail the author’s obligations as well, so you know what is expected of you in order to realize your objectives for the book, as well as to meet your desired timeline. To get the best results, we recommend having the writer’s first task be to develop a work plan with a mutually-agreeable production schedule that outlines who is responsible for what.

Confidentiality

Most collaboration-agreement templates have standard confidentiality language baked into them. If you have any special concerns, though, it’s important to discuss them early and specifically to make sure the writer is comfortable abiding by them. In most cases, it won’t be a problem—confidentiality is built into the ghost’s DNA. But one no-no is barring the writer from ever disclosing their work on the project. Not only is doing so unnecessary, it significantly impedes a ghost’s ability to get future work, since prospective clients typically want to know about their past experience. If absolute confidentiality is a must-have for you, be aware that most writers will charge a high premium in exchange for not being able to use the project when they pursue future work.

Termination

This is the thorniest issue an author will ever have to consider because it forces them to confront the possibility that they made the wrong choice and should get a divorce. As such, this is the part of the contract that begs most for balance. The language has to be tough enough to protect the author from being ripped off, but not so heavy-handed that it cheats a writer for failing some arbitrary quality test. The simplest solution is to design a backloaded payment schedule to account for the risks of a rupture, which more often than not happens in the early stages. Beyond that, we advise having provisions that cover the most likely scenarios (you canceling the project, the relationship not producing the desired results, the writer flaking out) and spell out the legal and financial consequences for each.

Dispute Resolution

Most collaboration agreements include a section about how to adjudicate any disagreements over the contract. Some call for going to court, others for arbitration. There are pros and cons to each. Our agency’s standard agreement favors arbitration, both for financial and practical reasons. Either way, the important thing is to choose a lane you are both comfortable with and be specific about the process you will follow.

In sum, much like any marriage, there are no guarantees with any book collaboration that you will achieve editorial bliss. But we are confident that if you follow these tips in the hiring process, you will start your partnership with a strong foundation of trust and maximize your chances of producing a book you will both be proud of.

Gotham Ghostwriters is the nation's premier ghostwriting agency.

Dan Gerstein

Dan Gerstein is the CEO of Gotham Ghostwriters. A nationally recognized political writer, communications strategist, and idea man, Dan has been writing professionally for himself and others for more than 30 years.

A graduate of Harvard College, Dan got his start in collaborative writing and thought leadership development as a speechwriter and policy advisor on Capitol Hill for U.S. Senator Joe Lieberman from his home state of Connecticut. He went on to serve as a senior advisor and communications strategist for Lieberman in his vice-presidential and presidential campaigns.

In 2004, Dan moved to New York to become a political communications consultant and a commentator. Known for his independent, thoughtful analysis, he’s served as a contributing columnist for Forbes , the Wall Street Journal , and Politico , and appears regularly as a political analyst on Fox News, MSNBC, and CNN. In 2012, Dan joined the adjunct faculty of New York University’s Masters Program in Public Relations and Corporate Communications.

Since forming Gotham Ghostwriters, Dan has become one of the country’s top experts on the ghostwriting market and a sought-after source for industry conferences and news articles. He is also a nationally-recognized leader in the speechwriting field, co-founding the Professional Speechwriters Association.

Connect with Dan on LinkedIn  and follow him on Twitter @dangerstein .

If you value high-quality writing and are seeking a partner you can trust with your ideas and stories, contact us to schedule a free phone consultation. We’ll be back to you within 24 hours.

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Pricing of our Ghostwriting Agency

The cost of each specific assignment varies due to different aspects such as the depth of the topic and the time remaining until the deadline. Below you will find a rough price overview of our services . For a non-binding quote for your project, please click the button below:

Ghostwriting

• Essay: 53€/page
• Bachelor’s: 55€/page
• Master’s: 58€/page
• Dissertation: 60€/page
• Research publ.: 60€/page

Translation

• Essay : 20€/page
• Bachelor’s : 30€/page
• Master’s : 40€/page
• Dissertation: 50€/page
• Research publ. : 50€/page

Plagiarism check

• 5€/document

Corrections

Presentations.

• Essay : 18€/slide
• Oral exam: 20€/slide
• Colloquium: 30€/slide
• Defense of Dissertation: 35€/slide

Preparation

Your author will be happy to provide you with an overview of the key points so that you are optimally prepared for your final exam.

Your partner for academic masterpieces

Our work is characterized by the highest quality and professionalism – and for good reason.

We have been successful in academic ghostwriting for over four years. During this time, we have gained extensive experience and continuously optimized our processes. This long-standing expertise enables us to implement even complex and demanding projects efficiently and professionally.

Our established systems ensure that all orders are processed smoothly and effectively. From initial contact to final delivery, we work with clearly structured processes that enable us to meet your individual requirements precisely and on time.

A special feature of our agency is our in-house quality control team . Every piece of work is put through its paces to ensure it meets the highest standards. This rigorous quality management clearly sets us apart from many of our competitors and guarantees you work of outstanding quality.

At GhostWritingTeam, your satisfaction is our top priority. We understand the importance of academic writing and are committed to providing you with a result that not only meets but exceeds your expectations.

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• How It Works
• PhD thesis writing
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• Field experiments and focus studies as needed;
• Any citation style.
• Cohesive structure and flow;
• Streamlined voice and tone;
• Any citation style;
• Additional proofreading.
• Removal of redundant content;
• Scrupulous grammar review;
• Punctuation and spelling audit.
• Problem solving with steps;

Love your dissertation like everyone on the defence committee will, or get your money back.

For the safety of your funds, we have joined forces with the most secure payments systems.

Feel like your project still needs a little something? Enjoy up to 10 days of free tweaks.

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Thesis and dissertation filing guidelines

Students who have enrolled in dissertation or thesis credits will prepare a manuscript to publish through ProQuest/UMI Dissertation Publishing. You own and retain the copyright to your manuscript. The Graduate School collects the manuscript via electronic submissions only. All manuscripts are made available through ProQuest Dissertations and Theses database (PQDT), in ProQuest/UMI’s Dissertation Abstracts International, and through the University’s institutional repository, ScholarWorks.

Getting started with campus resources:

• Office of Human Research Protection
• Campus computer Help Desk @One : (775) 682-5000
• ProQuest Help Line: (877) 408-5027 (8 a.m. - 5 p.m. ET, or 5 a.m. - 2 p.m. PT)
• For specific questions, call the Graduate School Graduation staff at (775) 784-6869

Jump to a section

• Important dates and milestones for graduating students
• Electronic manuscript submission
• Checklist to complete your electronic submission
• Instructions for completing thesis/dissertation committee approval page
• Formatting your dissertation or thesis
• Templates, samples and forms for filing

1. Important dates and milestones for graduating students

• Contact your advisor to discuss department considerations and potential dates for your defense.
• Contact the Graduate School to ensure your progression paperwork has been approved.
• View important dates and purchase a graduation application through MyNevada for your graduation semester.
• Doctoral students must submit their dissertation title for the commencement program.
• Schedule defense date with the entire advisory committee in accordance with graduation deadlines.
• Submit all forms and final manuscripts to the Graduate School by established deadlines.

2. Electronic Manuscript submission

ProQuest electronic submission site

Set up an account with ProQuest and wait for a password sent via email. ProQuest offers email and phone support,   1-877-408-5027 , frequently asked questions, etc. Visit the site early to familiarize yourself with the submission process.

3. Checklist to complete your electronic submission

• Master's  Notice of Completion and Doctoral Notice of Completion Form  - This form includes all committee signatures AND the Graduate Program Director’s signature.
• Master's Final Review Approval and Doctoral Final Review Approval   Form - This form serves as the final approval from your advisor. The Graduate School will accept the dissertation/thesis after the date listed on the form. The approval date on the form indicates the student’s submission can be accepted.
• Committee Approval Page   - Use the online Word document template (NO SIGNATURES and no page number). This page will be merged into your manuscript to acknowledge committee members.
• Filing for Copyright Registration   (optional) - Students have the opportunity to register a copyright of their graduate work with the U.S. Copyright Office. It is strictly optional, and there is a $75.00 fee associated with the service, which is paid online with student submission.
• Processing fee  - $85 thesis / $95 dissertation.  Log into your Student Center in MyNEVADA . Under the Finances section, click on the link “Purchase Miscellaneous Items.” Select the applicable processing fee to pay (Dissertation or Thesis) and complete the transaction. You will receive a receipt that generates overnight.  Please keep this item as proof of payment for your records. Our office will automatically check for payment posted.
• NSF Survey of Earned Doctorates  – For  doctoral students only.

4. Instructions for completing thesis/dissertation committee approval page

• The Committee Approval Page (see forms links at bottom of page ): This interactive template has established borders.
• Use the accompanying template on page two of this handout to complete the Committee Approval form. Check spelling carefully and make sure that case (upper-case/capital and lower-case letters) and font style (regular or bold) follow the template. Spacing between lines will depend on how long your thesis/dissertation title is and how many committee members you have.
• Type the words as they appear on the template, i.e., on the first line “We recommend that the thesis/dissertation”, followed by the second line “prepared under our supervision by.”
• At brackets [1] enter your full name in ALL CAPITAL LETTERS and BOLD-FACED.
• Type the word “entitled” all in lowercase letters.
• At brackets [2] enter the complete title of your thesis/dissertation. The title should be in both CAPITAL and lower-case letters and must be Bold-Faced. If the title is long, use two or more lines, breaking the lines at appropriate words in the title. Do not hyphenate between lines.
• Type the words “be accepted in partial fulfillment of the,” and then, on the next line, “requirements for the degree of.”
• At brackets [3] enter the name of the degree being awarded, e.g., for Ph.D. enter “Doctor of Philosophy,” for Ed.D. enter “Doctor of Education”. The degree should be in all CAPITAL LETTERS and Bold-Faced. DO NOT enter the name of the graduate program, such as anthropology or economics.
• At brackets [4] type the full name of your thesis/dissertation advisor followed by his/her degree, followed by the word “Advisor”. For example, “Sonia A. Skakich, Ph.D., Advisor”. Use both capital and lowercase letters.
• Enter the subsequent committee members and type the full names of the rest of your committee members followed by their degrees and their roles in the committee (Committee Member or Graduate School Rep.) under each one. Use one line for each member. The Graduate School Representative should be the last committee member listed. Use both capital and lowercase letters.
• The last entry is reserved for the Dean of the Graduate School (which is already entered on the form).
• At brackets [5] enter the month and year of official graduation. The month must be May, August, or December. Enter the appropriate four-digit designation of the year (e.g., 2018).

5. Formatting your dissertation or thesis

The Graduate School requires standardized formatting for the dissertation and thesis documents. Students will follow a style guide (APA, MLA, etc.) to prepare their document; however, the document must comply with University formatting requirements listed below.

Margins and spacing

• Left margin: 1.5” from the left edge of the page.
• Right margin: 1.0” from the right edge of the page.
• Top margin: 1.0” from the top edge of the page.
• Bottom margin: 1.25” from the bottom edge of the page.
• All text should be double-spaced with the exception of captions, footnotes, long quotations, bibliographic entries of more than one line, and materials in tables and appendices.

Recommended fonts

Fonts should be easy to read. Times New Roman, Arial, or a similarly clear font is preferred; type size must be 10, 11, or 12 points. Script and italic typefaces are not acceptable except where absolutely necessary i.e. in Latin designations of species, etc.

In preparing your dissertation or thesis for electronic submission, you must embed all fonts. In Microsoft Word 2013, this is done by accessing the FILE menu; selecting OPTIONS, select SAVE. From the SAVE menu check the box labeled, ”Embed fonts in the file.” If the file size is a concern, check the box next to “Do NOT embed common system fonts."

Large tables, charts, etc., may be reduced to conform to page size, but the print must remain clear enough to be readable. You can also attach a PDF for electronic submissions.

Page numbering

Every page, with the exception of the title page, the copyright page, and the committee approval page is numbered in the upper right-hand corner, one-half inch from the top of the page and one inch from the right edge of the page. Do not underline or place a period after the number. Do not use a running header.

• The prefatory materials (abstract, acknowledgments, table of contents, etc.) are numbered in lower case Roman numerals (i, ii, iii, iv…). Insert a section break after the Roman numerals to create different page numbering styles.
• The first page of the main text and all subsequent pages are continuously numbered in Arabic numerals beginning with one until the final page number (1, 2, 3, 4…)
• Do NOT number appendices or pages of additional material with numbers such as 4a or A-1.

Tables and appendices

Tables and appendices are part of the document and must conform to the same margin and page numbering requirements.

Format and sequence of pages

Assemble pages in the following order:

• Title page *no page number* (create according to the example provided)
• Copyright Notice *no page number* (optional - see example)
• Committee Approval Page *no page number* (use the online template available on our   forms page – NO SIGNATURES on this page)
• Abstract (begins lowercase Roman numerals i, ii, iii…)
• Dedication (optional)
• Acknowledgments (optional)
• Table of Contents
• List of Tables
• List of Figures
• Body of Manuscript (begins Arabic numbering 1, 2, 3…)
• Back Matter (appendices, notes, bibliography, etc.)
• Do not number the title page
• Center each line of type
• Use BOLD text type for the manuscript title
• The date listed is the month and year in which you will graduate. The only acceptable months are May, August, and December (graduation cycles).

Copyright page

No page number on this page. Although not required, we strongly recommend you insert a copyright notice in your manuscript following the title page. Essential components of the copyright notice include the copyright symbol, full legal name of the author, and year of first publication. Follow the format of the sample provided below.

Committee approval page

• No page number on this page
• Use the electronic PDF template provided below. This page will list the advisory committee members and graduate dean but will NOT include committee signatures.   Combine the PDF into your manuscript to form a single PDF file.  To do this in Adobe Pro, select "Organize pages," "Insert," and "From file."   
• A window will open and you can drag your separate PDF files into this window to combine them into a single file.
• Choose the PDF documents in order of page sequencing (title page, committee page, main manuscript) and then combine files into a single PDF.

(Lower case Roman numeral “i” page number)

Abstracts are required for all theses and dissertations. ProQuest no longer has a word limit on the abstract, “as this constrains your ability to describe your research in a section that is accessible to search engines, and therefore would constrain potential exposure of your work.” ProQuest does publish print indices that include citations and abstracts of all dissertations and theses published by ProQuest/UMI. These print indices require word limits of 350 words for doctoral dissertations and 150 words for master’s theses (only text will be included in the abstract). You may wish to limit the length of your abstract if this concerns you. The abstracts as you submit them will NOT be altered in your published manuscript.

Processing note

Each copy of your thesis or dissertation will be checked for margins, clarity of copy, and pagination. The Graduate School will run the manuscript through the Turn It In plagiarism tool.

Electronically submitted theses/dissertations are available in electronic format only; no hard copies will be produced. Students are responsible for binding any copies for personal use or for distribution to their advisor, department, or committee members.

Dissertation & Thesis Processing Fee

Mandatory processing fees are required for all theses ($85.00) and all dissertations ($95.00). Log into your Student Center in MyNEVADA. Under the Finances section, click on the link “Purchase Miscellaneous Items.” Select the applicable processing fee to pay (Dissertation or Thesis) and complete the transaction. You will receive a receipt that generates overnight.  Please keep this item as proof of payment for your records. Our office will automatically check for payment posted.

Using copyrighted materials

You must certify in ProQuest that any copyrighted material used in your work, beyond brief excerpts, is with the written permission of the copyright owner. Attach copies of permission letters to the agreement form.

Copyright registration (optional)

Students have the opportunity to register a copyright on their graduate work with the U.S. Copyright Office. It is strictly optional, and there is a $75.00 fee associated with the service. Students submitting electronically pay online. Paying for the claim to copyright is a voluntary action, which allows a court of law to award monetary damages if the copyright is infringed. You may file a Registration of Copyright yourself by sending a properly completed application form, a nonrefundable filing fee of $45.00 and a nonreturnable copy of your thesis or dissertation to the United States Copyright Office. Application materials and instructions are available from:

Register of Copyrights Copyright Office Library of Congress Washington, D.C. 20559-6000 Information is also available at the Copyright Office’s website:   lcweb.loc.gov/copyright

ScholarWorks repository

ScholarWorks - the University's institutional repository - assists in collecting, preserving, and distributing the university's intellectual output accessible to end-users on local and global levels with few if any barriers. The repository will provide long-term access to the items deposited and can accept works from all the University faculty/staff/students. A wide variety of items including Articles, Datasets, Presentations, Technical Reports, Thesis and Dissertations, Posters, Conference Papers, etc. in all file formats can be deposited into the repository. The repository supports creative commons licensing and open-access publishing without any cost.

The discovery services and search engine optimizations ensure that major search engines easily discover the uploaded content. This increases the visibility, citations, and overall impact of the research. All items deposited in the repository receive a persistent URL that can be used for citations. Various statistics are collected with the built-in statistics module and Google Analytics modules. Information on monthly/yearly views, number of downloads, demographic information, etc. is available for each deposited item upon request.

All the ETDs uploaded into ProQuest are automatically deposited into the University's ScholarWorks repository. The embargo period set in ProQuest during deposit is carried over to the ScholarWorks repository. Any changes to the embargo period after deposit can be made by contacting ProQuest at 1-800-521-0600 as well as the ScholarWorks administrator at [email protected] .

Scholarworks FAQ

Do I need to upload my ETD into the ScholarWorks repository?

• No, ProQuest will automatically upload the ETD into ScholarWorks on approval from the Graduate School.

Can I extend the embargo period on my Thesis/Dissertation after uploading it to ProQuest?

• Yes, to change or extend the embargo period of your ETD you need to contact ProQuest at 1-800-521-0600 and the ScholarWorks administrator at [email protected] .

Can I make my ETD open access in the ScholarWorks repository?

• Yes, ScholarWorks supports open access with creative commons licensing. It is available as a free service to all the faculty/staff/students.

Alternative formatting for thesis or dissertation

These guidelines apply to those theses or dissertations which consist of a number of papers either previously published or being published concurrently with the submission of the thesis or dissertation. Acceptance and publication of the articles are not criteria for this alternative. Each of the papers should constitute a separate chapter of the overall work. Preceding the papers should be an introductory section. This section may be one or more chapters but should include:

• an overall introduction to the thesis/dissertation,
• a review of the appropriate literature, and
• a description of the methodology used in the study.

The student’s advisory committee should determine the format and specific content of this introductory section.

The number of individual papers constituting chapters of the thesis/dissertation is determined by the student’s advisory committee. These chapters may be formatted in the same style required by the journals to which they are to be submitted. However, the margins must conform to those of the overall thesis, i.e. left margin = 1.5"; right margin = 1"; top margin = 1"; bottom margin = 1.25". In addition, each page must be numbered consistent with the rest of the thesis/dissertation, that is, the first page of text is numbered 1 with each subsequent page numbered consecutively until the end, to include all appendices, indexes, etc.

Following the chapters consisting of individual papers, there must follow a summary, conclusions and recommendations section. This section may be formatted as one or more chapters.

Work reported in the articles should represent a major contribution by the student that is the review of the literature, the conceptual framework and/or research design for the reported work. The statistical analyses, summaries, conclusions, and recommendations should represent the student’s own work.

For publication purposes, other researchers may be named as additional authors. This would be especially appropriate when publication is dependent upon extensive revision of the initial manuscript submitted and the faculty involved assumes responsibility for the revisions, or when the student is using an existing database.

When a student chooses this option, the articles will be submitted to the journals agreed upon by the concerned academic unit. Responsibility for follow-up, revisions, etc., should be identified in a written document and agreed upon by the student and faculty member(s) involved.

6. Templates, samples and forms

Please be sure to read the above instructions before proceeding with documents.

Forms for filing a master's thesis   Forms for filing a doctoral dissertation

Thesis filing templates and samples

• Committee Approval page for 3-member committee (TEMPLATE)
• Committee Approval page for 3-member committee with co-advisor (TEMPLATE)
• Committee Approval page for 4-member committee (TEMPLATE)
• Committee Approval page for 4-member committee with co-advisor (TEMPLATE)

Sample pages

• Thesis Title page (SAMPLE)
• Thesis Copyright page (SAMPLE)
• Thesis Committee approval page (SAMPLE)

Dissertation filing templates, samples and Survey of Earned Doctorates

• Committee Approval page  for 5-member committee (TEMPLATE)
• Committee Approval page  for  5-member committee with co-advisor (TEMPLATE)
• Committee Approval page  for 6-member committee (TEMPLATE)
• Committee Approval page  for 6 -member committee with co-advisor (TEMPLATE)
• Dissertation Title page (SAMPLE)
• Dissertation Copyright page (SAMPLE)
• Dissertation Committee approval page (SAMPLE)

Survey of Earned Doctorates

• Survey of Earned Doctorates  - The Survey of Earned Doctorates (SED) is an annual census conducted since 1957 of all individuals receiving a research doctorate from an accredited U.S. institution in a given academic year. The SED is sponsored by the National Center for Science and Engineering Statistics (NCSES) within the National Science Foundation (NSF) and by three other federal agencies: the National Institutes of Health, Department of Education, and National Endowment for the Humanities. The SED collects information on the doctoral recipient's educational history, demographic characteristics, and postgraduation plans. Results are used to assess characteristics of the doctoral population and trends in doctoral education and degrees. Read more about the purpose and methods of the SED .

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5 Reasons I Switched From a Bank to a Credit Union

Published on Sept. 7, 2024

By: Dana George

• As nonprofit organizations, credit unions aren't in business to make money.
• Account fees are almost always lower at credit unions.
• Credit unions tend to offer lower loan rates and higher APYs than traditional banks.

I understand that changing from a bank to a credit union can be a hassle. After all, switching means going through all the bills you have on auto-pay to ensure they're moved to the new credit union checking account .

I'm not saying that switching suits everyone, but it was the right move for me. After years of believing my only option was to follow the rules imposed by my bank, I broke free and haven't looked back. Here's why.

1. I was fed up with fees

Our picks for the best high-yield savings accounts of 2024.

It's clear that banks make a whole lot of money from fees. For example, in the fourth quarter of last year, U.S. banks raked in $1.41 billion in overdraft fees alone. This was even as the Biden Administration pushed to limit how much banks could charge for overdrafts.

Even though I was as careful as I could be with my bank account, I was always nervous about being charged fees we could not afford at the time. Depending on the financial institution, any number of fees can be assessed, including:

• Maintenance or service fees
• Excessive transaction fees
• Insufficient fund fees
• Early account closing fees
• Out-of-network ATM fees

To be clear, some credit unions may charge fees, but I make it a point to find a credit union with no maintenance fees each time we move and will only join one with very low fees for other services, like wire transfers.

2. I enjoy the perks of membership

When I dealt with a bank, I was a customer. As a credit union member, I'm an owner. Sure, I may only own a tiny slice of the credit union, but as a member, I'm entitled to vote for new board members or even run for a board position myself. No member is more important than another, and each member can be as involved (or uninvolved) as they prefer. I appreciate that.

Not only do employees seem less rushed, but they tend to go out of their way to make life easier. For example, there were no available safety deposit boxes when I needed one. A credit union employee promised to keep their eye out for one, and sure enough, they called when one opened up. It may have been more than a year later, but they kept their promise.

3. More attractive rates

Unlike most businesses, credit unions are nonprofit organizations. The goal is not to make money but to provide all members with the financial products and services they need. In addition to charging fewer fees, credit unions typically offer lower interest rates on loans than other lending sources and pay a higher rate of return on investments.

When making a large purchase, like a vehicle, I appreciate knowing how much money I'll save by landing the lowest rate possible. I especially like earning a higher interest rate on most deposit accounts.

4. Loan approval leeway

Since making a profit is not the mission, credit unions have more leeway in personal loan approval. Let's say a person needs an emergency loan to repair their car. They have a better chance of loan approval through their credit union than a bank. Not only do credit unions tend to be smaller and more likely to know their members, but loan decisions don't have to go through multiple departments.

It's easy for a loan officer to take a quick look at a person's account and determine how long they've been a credit union member, the size of their deposits, and whether they regularly overdraft their account. In other words, decisions are far more personalized and don't solely depend on a person's credit score.

5. My community benefits

Most credit unions are locally owned and operated. As part of the community, credit unions often contribute to local charities through fundraisers and fun family events. They host bike safety workshops, holiday decorating contests, and other activities designed to build a greater sense of community.

That's a big deal because the healthier our community is, the nicer the overall vibe of the area. I like knowing I'm part of that, if only in a small way.

My husband and I were so happy with our credit union in Missouri that we remain members, primarily counting on the mobile app to manage our accounts . And knowing how good it is to have a credit union nearby to visit, we joined one near our new home. After learning how easy working with a credit union is, I can't imagine ever going back.

Two of our top online savings account picks:

Our Research Expert

Dana is a full-time personal finance writer, with more than two decades of experience. Her focus is on helping readers feel less alone as they navigate their personal finances and offering actionable insights.

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