Substack Notes vs Posts: What New Writers Get Wrong

One of the things I care most about is helping people go deeper in their storytelling and create from a place that feels fully alive. That’s the heart of what I do here on Wannabe Wisdom.

But I also love sharing what I’m learning as I go, especially the practical, challenging, and very real parts of building a writing life online.

I’ve been on Substack for almost three years now. Time has flown, and the platform changes fast. That’s part of why I created Substack Shop Talk: a series where I share the behind-the-scenes of writing on Substack.

If you’re new to Substack, one of the most useful things to understand early is the difference between Notes and Posts.

This is a free, 20-minute, beginner-friendly tutorial on how Substack Notes work, how they differ from long-form posts or essays, and how to write for an online audience.

Because Notes are not essays. And a lot of people are accidentally writing them like they are.

In this video, I cover:

* the difference between Notes and Posts

* what Notes are actually for

* how to think about writing for online readers

* why readability matters

* how to make your writing feel human, not overworked

* how I personally use Notes to support deeper writing

* restacking Notes and Posts

If you’ve been circling Substack and trying to get your footing, this will help.

✨ If you liked this video, you’ll love my full tutorial workshop, Getting Started on Substack (Without Losing Your Mind). Paid subscribers get instant access included with their subscription.

Or 👉 purchase it as a one-off for $37.

Also, check out the article I mention in the video: The Art of the Substack Note in 2026.

Welcome to Wannabe Wisdom, Diaries of a Fake Guru. I’m Ashley Evans. Glad you’re here. 😊

Evolving loudly. With love + rebellion.— Ashley

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