An anti-pattern is a commonly used process or structure that initially appears effective but ultimately has more bad consequences than good ones. Simeon Simeonov first introduced the value of startup anti-patterns in 2013, arguing that while startup success factors are elusive, experienced entrepreneurs and investors recognize patterns that drive failure. These anti-patterns increase inherent startup risks; pursuing one does not guarantee immediate failure, but each compounds to cloud focus and hamper execution.

Together with Itamar Novick from Recursive Ventures, Simeon Simeonov is launching the Startup anti-pattern series. The series will explore each anti-pattern with tangible examples drawn from their experiences as founders and investors in 100+ startups, plus insights from guest portfolio founders.

The article includes a comprehensive work-in-progress list of anti-patterns such as Elephant hunting, Platform risk, Analysis paralysis, Founderitis, Premature scaling, Death by pivot, and Zombie. The list is noted as not "drawn to scale," meaning frequency and fatality vary significantly across patterns.