Crash Course in the Science of Writing for Substack Creators
Self-guided curriculum to cut through the noise and captivate your audience.
You've got the passion, the knowledge, and the burning desire to share your unique voice with the world.
But sometimes, it feels like you're shouting into a void, right?
Your brilliant insights aren't getting the attention they deserve.
Fear not. This isn't about you – it's about them. Your readers. Those fascinating, complex creatures with a limited attention span and an inbox overflowing with distractions.
This 1-month self-guided crash course will equip you with the psychological tools to craft compelling content that cuts through the noise, captivates your audience, and leaves them craving more.
We'll dive deep into the minds of your readers, exploring the cognitive biases, emotional triggers, and persuasive techniques that will transform your Substack from a whisper to a roar.
Week 1: Understanding Your Audience (and Their Brains)
Reading: "Thinking, Fast and Slow" by Daniel Kahneman
This week, we're going full-on neuroscience! Kahneman's masterpiece reveals the two systems of thinking that govern our decisions—the fast, intuitive System 1 and the slow, deliberate System 2. Understanding how these systems interact is crucial for crafting content that resonates on both an emotional and logical level.
Actionable Takeaway: Identify your ideal reader. What are their pain points, desires, and motivations? How can you use this knowledge to tailor your content and speak directly to their needs?
Pro Tip: Don't just assume—ask! Create a survey for your subscribers to gather valuable insights into their preferences and interests.
Week 2: The Art of Persuasion (Without Being Sleazy)
Reading: "Influence: The Psychology of Persuasion" by Robert Cialdini
Cialdini's classic explores the six principles of persuasion: reciprocity, scarcity, authority, consistency, liking, and consensus. This week, we'll learn how to ethically apply these principles to your writing to increase engagement and build a loyal following.
Actionable Takeaway: Choose one of Cialdini's principles and experiment with it in your next Substack post. For example, offer a free resource (reciprocity) or highlight the exclusive benefits of subscribing (scarcity).
Pro Tip: Authenticity is key. Don't try to manipulate your readers – use these techniques to genuinely provide value and build trust.
Week 3: Crafting Compelling Content (That People Actually Read)
Reading: "Made to Stick: Why Some Ideas Survive and Others Die" by Chip Heath and Dan Heath
Ever wondered why some ideas go viral while others fade into oblivion? The Heath brothers reveal the secrets of sticky ideas – those that are simple, unexpected, concrete, credible, emotional, and story-driven (SUCCESs). We'll learn how to apply this framework to your Substack writing to create content that resonates and gets shared.
Actionable Takeaway: Analyze one of your previous Substack posts using the SUCCESs framework. Identify areas for improvement and rewrite the post to make it more engaging and memorable.
Pro Tip: Don't underestimate the power of storytelling. Personal anecdotes, case studies, and real-life examples can make your writing more relatable and impactful.
Week 4: Building a Thriving Community (and Keeping Them Hooked)
Reading: "Hooked: How to Build Habit-Forming Products" by Nir Eyal
This week, we're taking a cue from the tech world. Eyal's book explores the Hook Model – a four-step process that successful companies use to create habit-forming products. We'll adapt this model to the world of Substack, learning how to keep your readers engaged and coming back for more.
Actionable Takeaway: Design a "hook" for your Substack. What consistent value can you offer that will keep your readers coming back for more? Think exclusive content, interactive Q&As, or early access to new ideas.
Pro Tip: Foster a sense of community. Encourage comments, respond to feedback, and create a space where your readers feel heard and valued.
By the end of this self guided crash course, you'll be wielding the power of psychology to craft compelling content, build a loyal audience, and achieve your Substack goals.
Interested in going deeper? Sign up for the Science of Substack Masterclasses:
November 23, 2024 Masterclass: Science of Writing for Substack Creators
December 14, 2024 Masterclass: Science of Money for Substack Creators
January 18, 2025 Masterclass: Neuroscience of Creativity for Substack Creators
February, 2025 Masterclass: Building Your Community using Positive Psychology