When writing a haunted story it is important to create a dark and unsettling atmosphere. This can be done by using external stimuli such as darkness, a creaking floorboard or a sense of dread. It can also be achieved by introducing characters with a history of psychological trauma or illness, or by using the setting as a reminder of a tragic event.
Choosing a theme can help you to focus on what kind of ghost story you are writing. For example, a horror story might have a supernatural element while a comedy might not. It is also important to consider why the place is being haunted. Is the ghost trying to make amends, seek revenge or simply put something right? Whatever the reason, it is important to understand what the ghost wants and how they are going about getting it.
Another important aspect of the story is what the ghost looks like and what sort of ominous signs augur their approach. A common trope is a pale, translucent white figure with some indication of how they died. This can be a scar or a cut on the neck. If you want to be a little more creative with your story then try to avoid clichés such as this.
While there are many different genres of ghost stories, most have similar structures and a close focus on evoking feelings of fear and dread in the reader. Writing your own ghost story can be a challenge, but it is also very rewarding.