Most people overthink their first digital product. They spend weeks brainstorming, months building, and then... crickets.

Here's the reality: there are really only 3 types of digital products that consistently make money for solo creators and side hustlers.

1. Templates & tools — Notion dashboards, spreadsheets, Canva templates, swipe files. Low effort to create, high perceived value. Best for people who already use a specific tool daily.

2. Mini-courses & guides — Not a 40-hour masterclass. A focused, 1-2 hour course that solves ONE specific problem. "How to land your first 3 freelance clients" beats "Complete guide to freelancing" every time.

3. Paid communities — Charge for access to a group of like-minded people + your expertise. Works best when you already have an audience, even a small one.

The key is matching what you already know to the format that fits. If you're a spreadsheet nerd, start with templates. If you're good at teaching, make a mini-course. If people already DM you for advice, start a paid group.

Don't try to build all three. Pick one, launch it in 2 weeks, and iterate based on what sells.

That's exactly what I teach inside Cash Course — the full playbook from idea to first sale.