Start Here · Beginner lesson · about 3 minutes
Your first safe decision
You don't have to buy anything. This lesson gives you a short checklist for your first step. If that step ever involves money, use only an amount you could lose without it hurting you.
The short answer
You do not need to buy crypto to learn. This lesson’s checklist helps you make a first decision you can explain and check for yourself. If it ever involves money, use only an amount you could lose without it hurting you.
In plain English
Before using money, write down what you are trying to do: learn, send a payment, hold a coin, use an app, or study a market. Each goal has different tools and risks. Do not let a price chart choose the goal for you.
If you continue, use only an amount you could lose without it hurting you. Use official software you found yourself. Check the network and address. Try a tiny test first. Write down what you agreed to. If you cannot explain the send in your own words, waiting is a good decision.
What can go wrong
Read this before you act.
Crypto sends often cannot be undone. Prices can swing hard. A company holding your coins can fail. Scams, sending on the wrong network, leaked keys, and bugs in the software that moves money can all cause permanent loss.
Check your understanding
A few questions. Not a test.
Pick an answer to see why it's right or wrong. There's no score to unlock.
Sources and corrections
This lesson is a starting point. The two sites below are good general places to learn more. Please tell us if something needs fixing.