"Sakurai-san Wants to Be Noticed" is a slice-of-life romantic comedy manga centered around the dynamic between two high school students, Sakurai and Mizuno. Sakurai, a quiet and reserved girl, harbors feelings for Mizuno, her classmate who is outgoing, popular, and often the center of attention. Despite her shy nature, Sakurai frequently attempts to capture Mizuno's attention through small, subtle actions, such as leaving notes in his desk or intentionally bumping into him in the hallway. These efforts, however, often go unnoticed or are misinterpreted by Mizuno, who remains oblivious to her feelings.

Mizuno, on the other hand, is portrayed as a cheerful and somewhat airheaded individual who enjoys socializing but lacks awareness of Sakurai's attempts to connect with him. His interactions with Sakurai are friendly but casual, and he often misreads her awkward behavior as mere coincidence or clumsiness. This creates a recurring theme of miscommunication and missed opportunities, which drives much of the humor and tension in the series.

As the story progresses, Sakurai's attempts to be noticed become more deliberate, though they remain endearingly awkward. Her persistence and vulnerability gradually reveal her deeper emotions, while Mizuno begins to show subtle signs of curiosity about her behavior. The narrative explores themes of unrequited love, self-expression, and the challenges of communication, all set against the backdrop of everyday high school life.

The supporting cast includes classmates and friends who occasionally provide insight or comedic relief, but the focus remains primarily on the evolving relationship between Sakurai and Mizuno. The manga balances lighthearted moments with poignant reflections on the difficulties of expressing one's feelings, making it a relatable and engaging read for fans of the genre.