How to Create a Pitch Deck That Gets Noticed (All Essential Elements Explained!)

Hey, writers!

I know many of you have already heard about the word “Pitch Deck.” It is often used in the screenwriting world. But, how many of you actually made it to send to the production houses?

I’ve met many writers who say “Pitch Deck” is not an essential document in the writing world. They told me that they’ve pitched their stories without it. I accept it. It is a fact that a pitch deck is not necessary for authoring, audio story script writing, or blogging. But it has become an essential document for the screenwriters.

Three years ago, I was a screenwriting intern in Mugafi. There, I’ve learned how a simple visual presentation(pitch deck) of a story can create a great impact. During that internship, I created numerous attractive pitch decks. That actually helped producers to understand and imagine the entire story concept quickly.

Always remember, a pitch deck is not the first document you need to pitch a story. During the initial stages, screenwriters only need a logline and synopsis to connect with the production houses. But it becomes a must document if your logline and synopsis are accepted by them.

In exceptional cases, a few production houses demand it before pitching and narrating the entire story.

So, my screenwriters friends. Don’t take it lightly. A Pitch deck is important in the screenwriting world. That’s why, in this blog, we’ll break down everything you need to know about pitch decks. It is a step-by-step guide to understanding the basics and knowing about some essential elements of creating a deck that truly works.

Let’s dive into it.

What Is a Pitch Deck?

A pitch deck is a short, structured, and visually appealing presentation of a story. It helps to present an idea in a concise way that is easy to understand, visualise, and seem persuasive. It is usually prepared in 10-15 slides. Each slide has a clear purpose that guides the whole thought process step-by-step.

A Pitch deck holds the story’s essence with some must-have elements. It includes a cover page, logline, plot, synopsis, character sketch, ten-pager (add only when asked), tentative locations and portfolio(optional). It also describes the target audience and the unique selling point.

A pitch deck designed to be engaging without overloading information. It is about clarity, focus, and storytelling. Dumping information may leave a negative impact on producers or investors. Try to make it clear and convincing so that it helps producers or investors to make quick decisions. Also, it should answer why people will trust the idea.

You can see a pitch deck as a bridge between your idea and its acceptance. If you believe in your idea, make it powerful with a visual presentation.

Why A Pitch Deck Matters to Screenwriters

In today’s fast-paced world, everything is evolving rapidly. People rarely have the time or patience to listen to long explanations. If a writer works on a feature film, nobody has enough time to listen to their 120-minute story. To save their time, producers or directors demand an engaging logline or synopsis. With it, if you add a visual presentation(pitch deck) of your idea, it works as a plus point for you.

A pitch deck helps writers communicate their ideas in a clear, concise, and effective manner.
It helps production houses to visualise and connect with the story in a few minutes. That saves hours.
It is often the first interaction and leaves a lasting impression on others.
A strong deck creates instant credibility. It shows how a writer deeply understands their idea.
It demonstrates the writer’s professionalism, preparation, and industry expertise.

Which Elements are Essential for a Pitch Deck?

A computer monitor displaying 'How to Create a Pitch Deck' in bold text with a modern office background.

Understanding the essential elements of a pitch deck helps you communicate your vision effectively. Here, I’ve explained some must-have elements that should be a part of your pitch deck. So, learn and create an impactful pitch deck that makes your project stand out.

1. Cover Page/Slide

In today’s digital era, the use of Artificial intelligence is immensely increasing. Now, you don’t need a graphic designer to design a high-quality poster for your story. You just give a command to AI tools, and they are ready to give you an efficient output. You can also use websites like Canva to design your poster by yourself.

I prefer to use any AI tool to create a 3D impactful poster for an idea. Also, include some details with the cover,

Project Name. Example: Baji Rao
Writer’s Name. Add co-writer(if have). Example: Written By Simran Thakur. Co-writer: Anita Pathak.

Note: Keep your poster clean and visually strong. Don’t share if they’re not satisfying. Take some time to think about the idea and story, then use the commands to generate.

2. Logline

A logline is the first thing demanded by production houses and directors. Try to make it perfect and engaging.

A logline is a one or two-sentence summary of a story that contains a protagonist, their want, conflict, and stakes. It should be concise so that it can hold a story’s essence without revealing the end.

The logline must be simplified to no more than two lines or 50 words.
It should be clear and hold every element.
Try to add an image or poster that defines your logline.

John Truby said in their book, The Anatomy of Story, “You must have a good one-line sentence that it’s the one decision on which other decisions you make during the writing process. If you fail at the one line, nothing else will work.”

Follow his guidance. You can visit my blog on logline to learn more. I’ve attached the link above.

3. Plot

A plot is the structured sequence of events that drives a story forward. It gives direction to characters, builds tension, and creates engagement. A strong plot keeps the audience curious to know what happens next. Here, you can add some images to understand the story’s plot, but don’t add many. It feels unprofessional.

A plot should be clear and summarised in 300-500 words.
It should follow the 3-Act structure. But it is not a 3-Act structure.
It should remain full of unexpected twists and turns.
Must include settings, inciting incident, character arcs, conflicts, challenges, and consequences.

A plot is a more defined version of a logline. It gives more freedom to convey the story meaningfully.

4. Synopsis

A synopsis is a 1–2 page summary of a story that covers plot points, characters, and the story’s arc. It also follows the 3-Act structure, where a clear beginning, middle, and end of a story are defined. But it doesn’t include a fully revealed climax. Just add a small gist. You can add some suitable images.

A synopsis must have,

1000-1500 words. It may vary as per the production house’s guidelines.
The 3-Act structure concisely defines the settings, inciting incidents, character arcs, and essence of a story.
A themetic essence. It should clear the theme.

Note: Don’t need to add dialogue if not necessary. Try to avoid basic conversation in a synopsis.

Synopsis is the second most important element in a pitch deck. It connects an entire story in a thread. So, keep it concise but compelling.

5. Character Sketch

A Character Sketch is a detailed profile of main and supporting characters. It covers personality traits, backstory, relationships, morals, and motivations of each character.

Try to add each character image using AI tools. It helps producers quickly understand characters’ looks, depth, and arcs.

To create real and attractive characters, you first need to thoroughly understand them. Focus on the description of the character, adding,

Character name, age, personality, morals, strengths, weaknesses, fears, wants, motivations, beliefs, inner conflicts, transformation, etc.
Create a description of each character, whether primary, secondary, or tertiary.
Don’t add every character in the pitch deck. Add protagonist, antagonist, and some essential secondary characters.

Note: To learn how to develop influential characters, visit the preferred links.

6. Tentative locations

Tentative locations are those places where your story takes place. It may include one, two, or many settings. Add every location with a specific reason. Your every word should answer, “Why are these places a perfect choice for your story?”

Also, include some suitable images in the pitch deck for the look and feel. With the help of these, you can establish,

Physical, cultural, and emotional environment of the narrative.
True colours, status quo, and realism of the city.
A visual world that helps producers and directors to plan and shoot according to the atmosphere.

Clear locations and settings give a strong foundation to a story. When place, culture, and visuals are well defined, the story feels real and attractive.

7. CV / Portfolio (Optional but Strongly Recommended)

A CV or portfolio highlights your professional background, experience, and achievements. It builds credibility and motivates producers to trust your capability to execute the project.

Before submitting the CV or portfolio, add some must-have elements,

Full name and professional title.
Brief professional summary and writing experience.
Published or ongoing projects with proof. Add links to work samples.
Awards, recognitions, or fellowships.
Contact information

Note: Keep documents concise, clean, and formatted professionally. Have digital (PDF) versions ready; print versions are optional. Attach an email pitch summarising your logline and why your story fits their slate.

Final Words

A pitch deck is the visual voice of your idea. Take enough time to make it strong, attractive and meaningful. It can become a reason to see your story on a big screen. So, don’t be afraid to visualise your story.

Your single and dedicated effort can open the way for many opportunities.

Don’t wait, just become an action-taker!