This post hit home for me. I did not know the part about the first 3 lines: "Start with tension, a question, a bold statement, or a relatable problem. Hook the reader early—then go deeper." But this totally makes sense. Honestly, if I am not hooked in the first few lines, I move on to something else. This is likely to be true for having a conversation with someone - hook them then continue the conversation!
Glad this was an interesting learning for you, Susan. I'm sure you subconsciously knew that the first few lines will make or break the connection for your reader, but it's always a great reminder to explicitly pay close attention to your introduction! :)
I'm trying to also figure out best practice for all those hundreds of toggle buttons, headers and footers and all those Substack options that I have skipped over.
I'm glad this resonates with you, Andrew! You're right, there are lots of settings and options on Substack. My recommendation is to keep things simple at the beginning and to slowly build up from there. You don't need to use all the features right away.
Another recommendation is to use the Substack support chat; it does a great job helping you find the right support articles to solve specific problems! :)
This post hit home for me. I did not know the part about the first 3 lines: "Start with tension, a question, a bold statement, or a relatable problem. Hook the reader early—then go deeper." But this totally makes sense. Honestly, if I am not hooked in the first few lines, I move on to something else. This is likely to be true for having a conversation with someone - hook them then continue the conversation!
Glad this was an interesting learning for you, Susan. I'm sure you subconsciously knew that the first few lines will make or break the connection for your reader, but it's always a great reminder to explicitly pay close attention to your introduction! :)
Very sensible level-headed advice:
--clear topic
--compelling title
--stimulate interest in first three lines
--let them know about payment options
Great stuff!
I'm trying to also figure out best practice for all those hundreds of toggle buttons, headers and footers and all those Substack options that I have skipped over.
I'm glad this resonates with you, Andrew! You're right, there are lots of settings and options on Substack. My recommendation is to keep things simple at the beginning and to slowly build up from there. You don't need to use all the features right away.
Another recommendation is to use the Substack support chat; it does a great job helping you find the right support articles to solve specific problems! :)
Very many thanks Sinem
You’re welcome! :)
Great article. Thank you. Still can't find my About Page
Hi Dave! Here's more info on your About Page: https://support.substack.com/hc/en-us/articles/25006088243348-How-do-I-edit-my-About-page-for-my-Substack-publication
These tips are some of the BEST I've read! Stop comparing to other creators... don't be afraid to self-promote. Those are so important.