Welcome to the world of crypto! 🚀 Whether you’ve heard about Bitcoin on the news or seen friends talk about Ethereum and NFTsℹ️, you’re in the right place. This guide will break down the basics so you can confidently begin your journey into cryptocurrency.
Cryptocurrency is a digital form of money that operates on a technology called blockchainℹ️ — a decentralized, public ledger that records all transactions. Instead of being issued by governments or banks, cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin (BTC) and Ethereum (ETH) are maintained by a global network of computers.
Decentralization: No central authority controls it.
Transparency: Anyone can view blockchainℹ️ transactions.
Speed & Accessibility: Send funds globally in minutes, 24/7.
Limited Supply: Many cryptocurrencies have fixed supplies, like Bitcoin’s 21 million max.
Sign up with a trusted exchangeℹ️ based on your location:
Take a look at our Crypto Exchange Setup Guide for more information on how to choose the right exchangeℹ️ to best fit your needs.
Most regulated platforms require basic KYCℹ️ (Know Your Customer) steps. This usually involves answering a few questions about your identity and verifying your identity with a photo ID and facial recognition scan through a mobile app.
Deposit fiat currency (USD, EUR, etc.) or transfer crypto from a crypto walletℹ️
Start with small amounts of Bitcoin (BTC), Ethereum (ETH), or stablecoinsℹ️ like USDT or USDC.
Hot Wallets: Mobile/web-based walletsℹ️ like MetaMask or MEW wallet. Convenient but online.
Cold Wallets: Hardware wallets, we recommend Ledger. Best for long-term security.
📌 Tip: Never share your seed phraseℹ️ — 🔐 it’s the key to your wallet.
Invest & Trade: Buy low, sell high — but beware of volatility!ℹ️
DeFi: Access decentralized finance apps for lending, borrowing, and stakingℹ️.
NFTs: Buy and sell digital collectibles or art.
Payments: Use crypto for remittances or purchases where accepted.
Volatility: Crypto prices can swing fast.
Scams: Be cautious of unsolicited messages, fake giveaways, and phishing links.
Security: Use strong passwords and enable two-factor authentication (2FA).
Crypto is constantly evolving. Follow trusted sources, explore reputable communities, and stay informed.
Check out our Tools page to help you start trading smarter:
📊 Position Size Calculator
📈 Profit & Loss Calculator
🎯 Risk/Reward Ratio Calculator
🧮 Trailing Stop Calculator
📓 TCPTOOLS Trading Journal & Tools
Take a look at the rest of the guides in our Getting Started series:
Read the guides in our Strategy series:
Also please make sure you read the following guides:
🔗 Ready to trade? Sign up through our affiliate links for bonuses and discounts we've secured. You'll also be helping to support this site:
⚠️ Risk Warning: Crypto trading is risky. Never invest more than you can afford to lose. Always do your own research.