The Arc Product-Market Fit Framework

Sequoia Capital’s Arc framework describes three distinct paths to product-market fit: Hair on Fire, Hard Fact, and Future Vision. The course helps founders identify which path matches their market, evaluate fit through recurring customer and market questions, and avoid applying the wrong startup playbook.

4 sections · 10 lessons

Course outline

Read the Market

  1. Start With Customer Reality
  2. Win the Urgent Market
  3. Turn Resignation Into Change
  4. Build Belief With Pit Stops
  5. Read the Market

Earn Conviction

  1. Prove Your Right to Exist
  2. Find People Who Care
  3. Earn Conviction

Prove the Product

  1. Change Customer Behavior
  2. Build the Value Exchange
  3. Prove the Product

Keep the Fit

  1. Separate Indicators From Resolution
  2. Revisit Fit as Markets Move
  3. Keep the Fit

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