Mistake 1: Building too much, too early

Instead of testing a core assumption, many MVPs try to look like full apps. The result? Bloated scope, wasted budget, and unclear learning.

Fix it: Identify your riskiest assumption and design your MVP to test only that. Cut everything else. If you're not embarrassed by version 1, you probably built too much.

Mistake 2: Confusing “minimum” with “unusable”

Some founders cut features so aggressively that the MVP becomes frustrating or confusing. A barebones MVP still needs clear UX, a working flow, and some polish.

Fix it: Focus on one core user journey and make it smooth. A tiny but functional feature beats a broken product with 10 tabs.

Mistake 3: Ignoring distribution and launch strategy

You built the MVP. Now what? Too many founders expect downloads to appear “magically” without ASO, launch partners, or pre-built interest.

Fix it: Have a distribution plan before you code. Use waitlists, landing pages, or online communities to generate early interest. No users = no validation.

Mistake 4: Overspending on custom tech too soon

Hiring a dev team to build a fully custom app for your first version often eats your entire budget—with no guarantee of success.

Fix it: Use no-code, low-code, or hybrid stacks (like React Native). Start with tools that let you iterate fast and switch gears cheaply if needed.

Mistake 5: Skipping analytics and feedback loops

If you launch an MVP without usage tracking or feedback tools, you won’t know what worked. MVPs are experiments—you need data.

Fix it: Add basic analytics (Firebase, Mixpanel), include a feedback form or support chat, and actually talk to your early users.

Summary

Your MVP isn’t just a product—it’s a test. If you build too much, skip validation, or ignore users, you're not running a lean startup. You’re gambling. Avoid these 5 common traps, and your MVP has a far better shot at doing what it’s supposed to: learn, validate, and guide you toward real product-market fit.