Using subtract I get black instead of transparent

[School5C4F]

The black space needs to be transparent I don't know how to do that

[Towerguy]

Hi. How have you made the shape? If it's a shape layer select it and at the top of the screen you will see the Fill settings, press on the word Fill and in the dropdown that appears you cant set it to alpha (transparent).

[One&Done]

Same exact thing happened to me! 

I used one with the Pen Tool.

The other, with Rectangle. 

Right now I am seeking Fill Settings

As, for the Pen Tool Mask, I am still uncertain.

[Towerguy]

Hi. You have masked out a part of an image (not created a Shape Layer so there are no Fill settings) this means the black areas are 'cut out' and actually transparent - put a coloured solid on the layer underneath and you will see what I mean. I would highly recommend that you do some basics tutorials.  AE is a  complicated program and without the basics you are likely to drive yourself crazy.

[One&Done]

I can see that most definitely, as these past few weeks have driven me practically nuts! Applying some more will be a necessity. I watched a long beginner tutorial before I got started, but the project is due tomorrow. I heard that it shows the transparent checkerboard if one is to check the tender tickbox. I cannot find this box anywhere. Does the render tickbox only display if the project has already been rendered or something? Thank you

[One&Done]

Apparently by clicking on the deepest layers this buried render box shall be revealed.