What Are the Main Ways You Can Get Into Crypto
Cryptocurrency has moved from niche tech to mainstream finance, drawing interest from investors, traders, and everyday savers alike. But if you’ve never owned digital assets before, getting started can seem confusing.
Fortunately, there are several straightforward ways to get involved, whether you’re curious about Bitcoin, exploring blockchain projects, or thinking about trading professionally.
Here are the main ways to start your crypto journey, explained simply.
#1 Buy and Hold (The “HODL” Strategy)
The most common entry point into crypto is buying coins and holding them long-term, a strategy often called HODLing.
The idea is simple: buy established cryptocurrencies and hold them for months or years, expecting their value to grow over time.
The most popular coins to start with include:
- Bitcoin (BTC) - the original and most widely recognised cryptocurrency.
- Ethereum (ETH) - the foundation for most decentralised applications.
- Solana (SOL) or Cardano (ADA) - newer networks with lower transaction costs.
To do this safely:
- Create an account on a reputable exchange
- Transfer your crypto to a secure wallet (hardware wallets are best for long-term storage)
- Keep your recovery phrases private and offline
It’s a simple approach, low effort, but patience is truly the key to this strategy.
#2 Trade Crypto Actively
If you prefer short-term opportunities, trading might suit you better. Active traders buy and sell crypto based on market trends, news, and price movements.
Common trading styles include:
- Day trading: Enter and exit trades within the same day
- Swing trading: Hold positions for several days or weeks to capture trends
- Scalping: Make frequent, small trades for quick profits
Crypto markets run 24/7, so timing and discipline are super important. Many traders use charts and technical indicators to spot opportunities.
Some even work with a crypto prop firm, which will basically give your funded accounts to skilled traders who prove they can manage risk responsibly. This setup allows you to trade larger sums without risking your own full capital, useful for those who want to grow experience in a structured environment.
#3 Earn Through Staking and Yield
Another way to get into crypto is through staking, which lets you earn rewards for helping secure a blockchain network.
When you stake your coins, you “lock” them into the network, and in return, you receive interest or additional tokens.
Popular staking options include:
- Ethereum (ETH) - After its upgrade, holders can earn rewards by validating transactions
- Cardano (ADA) - Is easy to stake directly from many wallets
- Polkadot (DOT) - Does offer flexible staking with moderate returns
Alternatively, you can even look at yield farming, which lets you lend crypto to decentralised platforms in exchange for returns. It carries more risk but can offer higher rewards.
#4 Earn Crypto Instead of Buying It
If you’d rather not invest cash upfront, consider earning cryptocurrency directly.
You can:
- Work for companies or freelance platforms that pay in Bitcoin or stablecoins
- Create content on blockchain-based social media platforms that reward engagement
- Participate in “learn and earn” programmes from exchanges, where you study short courses about crypto and get rewarded in tokens
Earning crypto is a very good way to really test the waters without risking your own money.
#5 Use Crypto Debit or Payment Cards
Some companies now offer crypto debit cards that let you spend cryptocurrency directly, converting it to cash at checkout.
These cards make using digital assets more practical for everyday purchases while giving cashback rewards in crypto.
They can be a convenient middle ground between investing and adopting crypto for real-world use.
#6 Explore NFTs and Web3 Projects
Not all crypto involvement revolves around trading. Many people get involved by supporting creative or community-driven projects in the Web3 space.
This can mean:
- Buying or selling NFTs (digital collectibles)
- Joining decentralised autonomous organisations (DAOs) that govern shared projects
- Contributing to blockchain-based games or virtual worlds
These areas can be fun and innovative, but they’re also highly speculative, always research before spending money.
#7 Learn Before You Leap
Crypto offers exciting opportunities, but it’s not risk-free. Prices can swing dramatically, scams still exist, and regulations continue to evolve.
Before investing heavily, take time to learn the basics:
- How blockchain technology works
- How to store crypto safely
- What fees and taxes apply in your country
There are plenty of free educational resources, podcasts, and tutorials online that explain the essentials clearly.
Ask Yourself What’s Right for You
Getting into crypto doesn’t have to mean diving into the deep end, and whether you buy and hold, start trading, or explore staking and Web3, there’s a way to get involved that matches your goals and risk comfort.
Start small, stay curious, and ALWAYS prioritise your own security, because with the right approach, crypto can be more than just a trend; it can become a learning journey and, for some, a long-term opportunity.
