Learn Crypto Fundamentals
3-5 hoursUnderstand blockchain, Bitcoin, Ethereum, wallets, and how exchanges operate before buying any digital asset.
Intermediate2-4 weeks
Cryptocurrency Guide
Free step-by-step cryptocurrency for crypto-curious investors. Plan cryptocurrency with calculators and checklists covering learn crypto fundamentals, assess.
crypto-curious investorstech enthusiastsportfolio diversifiers
Workflow
Assess Portfolio Allocation
1 hourLimit crypto to 1-5% of total investable assets — never invest money needed for bills, debt, or emergencies.
Choose a Regulated Platform
1 hourUse US-regulated exchanges (Coinbase, Kraken) with strong security, insurance, and tax reporting.
Secure and Track Holdings
OngoingEnable 2FA, consider hardware wallets for large holdings, and track every transaction for IRS reporting.
Tools Used
- Net Worth CalculatorPrimary
Determine appropriate crypto allocation as % of net worth.
- Investment Return CalculatorSupporting
Model best/worst case scenarios given extreme volatility.
- Capital Gains CalculatorPrimary
Calculate capital gains tax on crypto sales and swaps.
- Tax CalculatorSupporting
Estimate total tax impact of crypto trading activity.
Checklist
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Education
Planning
Security
Taxes
Reference Materials
Major Cryptocurrencies OverviewTable
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 |
US Crypto Tax RulesStandard
IRS treats crypto as property. Every sale, swap, or purchase with crypto is a taxable event. Report on Form 8949 and Schedule D.
Not Your Keys, Not Your Coins
Exchange-held crypto can be lost in bankruptcy — transfer significant holdings to a hardware wallet.
Ignore FOMO
Crypto has had 80%+ drawdowns multiple times — only invest what you can afford to lose entirely.
Beware Scam Coins
New tokens promoted on social media are often pump-and-dump schemes — stick to established assets.
Safety Notes
- Never share seed phrases or private keys with anyone — legitimate services never ask for them. Phishing causes most crypto theft.