What is the difference between Package, Make and Publish?

Package puts your Electron app into a folder that can run on the target. Make turns that output into an installer or other release format using the maker you choose. Publish sends release files to the destination you configure and can run earlier steps. You can review the release file without uploading it.

What does an installed copy need to get updates?

An installer gets the first copy onto a computer. Set up an update route separately using a supported distribution and update service. Match it to the maker, operating system and release location. On macOS, automatic updates require a signed app. Before shipping, check that an installed copy can find the correct update without losing its saved files.

Where should a fictional release stop before it reaches users?

Draw an Electron app called Stock Notes and give it a version number.

Mark the three outputs
Draw the packaged folder, the installer, and the publisher destination. Circle the installer as the first thing to inspect.
Separate the update check
Draw a copy of version 1 already installed with a saved note. Mark what it would look for when version 2 is ready.