Part 5: Common mistakes from 150+ pitch decks

We reviewed at least 150 pitch decks from start-ups across all verticals, stages, and regions in the last 12 months. We're also former investors and founders. Here's an overview of common mistakes we find in almost all decks:

Poor pitch deck hygiene

• Disorganized decks

• Design and grammar issues

• Too many slides with too much text

• Descriptive instead of action titles

• Excessive use of abbreviations and industry jargon

Missing information

• No funding ask

• Product poorly explained

• "How big can this get?" missing

• Deck geared for customers, not for investors

Business judgment

• Unvalidated assumptions

• Biased competitive review

• Top-down market sizing

• Unrealistic revenue projections

• "Services" or "agency" language

Funding ask

• Funding ask too high for traction

• Dangerously high valuation

• Runway unrealistically short

• Generic use of proceeds

Make sure to double-check your pitch deck, as you likely have some or all of the mistakes above as well.

We'll tell you more about key mistakes in subsequent posts.

Talk soon,

Rafael

PS: How do we help you? My team and I build pitch decks, review existing decks, and offer pitch simulations. Get in touch if you or someone you know may be interested.

PPS: This mini course is based on our popular “Fundraising & Pitch Deck” newsletter.