LESSON 1 / 4 · 3 min READ
Crypto, without the jargon
Understand coins, blockchains, and why prices move.
Start with the idea
A blockchain is a shared record maintained by a network. A cryptocurrency is a digital asset whose ownership and transfers are recorded using that network. Bitcoin and Ethereum are examples of networks; they do not work in exactly the same way.
Separate the technology from the price
A useful idea does not guarantee that a token will gain value. Prices can move sharply, trading can become difficult, and an asset can lose its value. Learning how a project works is different from deciding whether to buy it.
Know the words
A coin usually belongs to its own network. A token is commonly issued on an existing network. A network fee pays for processing an action. A transaction identifier lets you look up a transaction in a block explorer.
Before you move onIn your own words, explain the difference between a network and the price of its token.
Next: Your wallet. Your responsibility. →LESSON 2 / 4 · 3 min READ
Your wallet. Your responsibility.
Learn how addresses, keys, and recovery phrases differ.
What a wallet does
A wallet helps you interact with a network and authorize actions. The assets are recorded on the network. With self-custody, you are responsible for the keys that control them; with a custodial service, a provider manages access.
Keep the secret separate
A public address can receive assets. Private keys and a recovery phrase can grant control. A recovery phrase is not a support code: do not send it to support, a friend offering help, or a website claiming to verify your wallet.
Understand recovery before funding
Read your wallet provider’s backup instructions first. A forgotten app password and a lost recovery phrase are different problems. Learn which recovery options your wallet actually supports before relying on it.
Before you move onIdentify what can be shared to receive funds and what must remain secret. Do not enter any real wallet details here.
Next: Pause before you click →LESSON 3 / 4 · 3 min READ
Pause before you click
Recognize pressure, impersonation, and suspicious requests.
Question urgency
An unexpected message about a giveaway, account problem, or limited opportunity is a reason to pause. A familiar logo or a convincing profile is not proof of identity.
Verify the destination
Use a known official website to find support. Check the full domain rather than trusting the text of a link or an advertisement. Never share recovery words with someone who contacts you.
Read before signing
Connecting a wallet, granting a token approval, and sending assets are different actions. If a request is unclear, reject it and investigate. A wallet connection does not make a site trustworthy.
Before you move onOpen the safety checklist and choose one check you will do before interacting with a new site.
Next: Understand exchanges & risk →LESSON 4 / 4 · 3 min READ
Understand exchanges & risk
Compare access, costs, custody, and withdrawal rules.
Know the service
An exchange can provide a way to buy and sell assets. Its products, account rules, and availability can differ by location. Being able to open a website does not mean you are eligible for every product.
Compare the full process
Look beyond a promotion. Check trading charges, spreads, deposit methods, withdrawal fees, supported networks, and account-security options using the provider’s current documentation.
Leave room to stop
You do not need to buy anything to complete these lessons. Borrowing, leverage, and complex earning products add risks that a short introduction cannot resolve. Take time to understand the process and consider whether it fits your circumstances.
Before you move onWrite down three questions you would ask a provider before opening or funding an account.
Explore exchange research guides →