Why are those ‘Do Your Thing Substack’ Notes going viral? How can I use the algorithm to grow my newsletter? Read this deep technical dive into the Substack Notes algorithm for answers
This was actually really interesting Fard because it explains something I’ve seen without really understanding why. A huge chunk of my own Substack growth has come through Notes, not the articles themselves.
The idea of signal density makes that click into place: the replies, restacks, odd little Notes that disappear without much reaction — they may still be teaching the system who I am and who might care.
I’m still not interested in gaming it, though. I’d rather the algorithm slowly find my people than collect 1,000 strangers with a “subscribe for subscribe” circus.
Thanks Lee for reading and commenting. Yes, it’s very interesting how signal accumulation is working. It rewards engagement over the medium and long-term, and even those Notes that seem to go nowhere have an impact.
It’s possible to boost attention, but if it’s done the wrong way it could even backfire.
Fard, this has got to be one of the best dives into the algorithm that I have read yet! (I have read so many trying to figure it all out!!). I think it is really helpful understanding that the algo is focussed on the platform succeeding, not necessarily the individual. It does make it super hard for new and smaller publications though 😅
Thank you! I really appreciate this positive feedback!
I reviewed many articles and takes on the algo before deciding to write this.
I’m a first principles type of person. I like to understand the fundamentals of a system so that I can then move up the chain to implications. That’s how I approach a lot of topics in technology (from the technical underpinnings on up).
So after reading as much as I could find on the algo, I thought a more technical-focused overview might be helpful for people.
Oh you would have seen a lot of opinion then that is for sure!! I have spent time getting lost in all the "if you change this one thing" posts that swear 300 subscribers arrive overnight if you do 😂🤦🏻♀️ I think your first principles approach is great!
This was actually really interesting Fard because it explains something I’ve seen without really understanding why. A huge chunk of my own Substack growth has come through Notes, not the articles themselves.
The idea of signal density makes that click into place: the replies, restacks, odd little Notes that disappear without much reaction — they may still be teaching the system who I am and who might care.
I’m still not interested in gaming it, though. I’d rather the algorithm slowly find my people than collect 1,000 strangers with a “subscribe for subscribe” circus.
Nice article!
Thanks Lee for reading and commenting. Yes, it’s very interesting how signal accumulation is working. It rewards engagement over the medium and long-term, and even those Notes that seem to go nowhere have an impact.
It’s possible to boost attention, but if it’s done the wrong way it could even backfire.
Fard, this has got to be one of the best dives into the algorithm that I have read yet! (I have read so many trying to figure it all out!!). I think it is really helpful understanding that the algo is focussed on the platform succeeding, not necessarily the individual. It does make it super hard for new and smaller publications though 😅
Thank you! I really appreciate this positive feedback!
I reviewed many articles and takes on the algo before deciding to write this.
I’m a first principles type of person. I like to understand the fundamentals of a system so that I can then move up the chain to implications. That’s how I approach a lot of topics in technology (from the technical underpinnings on up).
So after reading as much as I could find on the algo, I thought a more technical-focused overview might be helpful for people.
Very happy you like it!
Oh you would have seen a lot of opinion then that is for sure!! I have spent time getting lost in all the "if you change this one thing" posts that swear 300 subscribers arrive overnight if you do 😂🤦🏻♀️ I think your first principles approach is great!
Yes! I saw a lot of that!