Learn Crypto Fundamentals
3-5 hoursUnderstand blockchain, Bitcoin, Ethereum, wallets, and how exchanges operate before buying any digital asset.
Field context
This workflow is part of 5 niche fields
Free step-by-step cryptocurrency for crypto-curious investors. Plan cryptocurrency with calculators and checklists covering learn crypto fundamentals, assess.
Understand blockchain, Bitcoin, Ethereum, wallets, and how exchanges operate before buying any digital asset.
Limit crypto to 1-5% of total investable assets — never invest money needed for bills, debt, or emergencies.
Use US-regulated exchanges (Coinbase, Kraken) with strong security, insurance, and tax reporting.
Enable 2FA, consider hardware wallets for large holdings, and track every transaction for IRS reporting.
Determine appropriate crypto allocation as % of net worth.
Model best/worst case scenarios given extreme volatility.
Calculate capital gains tax on crypto sales and swaps.
Estimate total tax impact of crypto trading activity.
Top digital assets by market cap and use case.
| Asset | Type | Primary Use |
|---|---|---|
| Bitcoin (BTC) | Store of value | Digital gold |
| Ethereum (ETH) | Smart contracts | DeFi, NFTs |
| Stablecoins | Pegged to USD | Trading, remittance |
Exchange-held crypto can be lost in bankruptcy — transfer significant holdings to a hardware wallet.
Crypto has had 80%+ drawdowns multiple times — only invest what you can afford to lose entirely.
New tokens promoted on social media are often pump-and-dump schemes — stick to established assets.