Gotham Ghostwriters’ Dan Gerstein reveals how writers can spot nightmare ghostwriting clients and take steps to avoid them when seeking work.

John Peragine talks about finishing the manuscripts of his old friend and mentor—and ghostwriting for an actual ghost.

The key to successful collaborative writing, from an equal co-authorship to a ghostwritten autobiography, is a good contract that is clear about who has what roles, how rights and burdens are shared, and how to unwind the project if things implode. Here are the key terms your collaboration agreement should cover.

Before you say yes to a ghostwriting gig, or even make a bid, you must know all you can about the project in question. Here's a checklist of questions that you should consider asking potential clients.