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A slide-by-slide framework for creating a pitch deck that gets meetings. Based on patterns from hundreds of successful YC and venture-backed startups.
Keep it under 12 slides
10-20-30 rule: 10 slides, 20 min, 30pt font
Every slide should have one key takeaway
Design matters — but content matters more
Your company name, one-line tagline, and contact info. Keep it clean and memorable.
Make your tagline crystal clear — no jargon
Include your logo prominently
Add your name, email, and website
What problem are you solving? Make the pain point visceral and relatable.
Tell a story about a real person experiencing this problem
Quantify the pain — time wasted, money lost, frustration
Avoid being too abstract — be specific
How does your product solve this problem? Show, don't tell.
Lead with the outcome, not the features
Include a screenshot or demo if possible
Keep it to 2-3 key benefits max
How big is the opportunity? TAM, SAM, SOM with credible sources.
Use bottom-up analysis (not just googled TAM numbers)
Show a realistic serviceable market
Cite credible data sources
How do you make money? Pricing, unit economics, and revenue projections.
Show clear pricing tiers or models
Include LTV/CAC ratio if available
Demonstrate path to profitability
What evidence do you have that this is working? Metrics, users, revenue.
Show a graph going up and to the right
Include specific numbers — MRR, users, growth rate
If pre-launch, show waitlist signups or LOIs
Who else is in this space? Position yourself clearly against alternatives.
Use a 2x2 matrix (not a feature comparison table)
Choose axes that make you look strong
Include 'doing nothing' as a competitor
Why is this the right team to build this? Highlight relevant experience.
Focus on relevant domain expertise
Notable achievements and past exits
Keep it to 2-4 key team members
How much are you raising, and what will you do with it?
Be specific about the amount and use of funds
Show 18-month runway plan
Include key milestones you'll hit with this funding
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