[Tutorial]: ICOs, IDOs & Airdrops 101

CryptoKas

Written for anyone looking to participate in token launches and free-drop events—clear steps, no fluff

1️⃣ Why Token Launches Matter

Token sales are how new projects raise capital and build community.

Understanding each sale format helps you spot opportunities—and avoid traps!

ICO (Initial Coin Offering):
- Direct token sale to the public, usually on the project’s website
- Often requires sending ETH or BTC to a contract
IEO (Initial Exchange Offering):
- Hosted and vetted by a centralized exchange (e.g. Binance, KuCoin)
- Exchange handles KYC/AML and token distribution
IDO (Initial DEX Offering):
- Launched on a decentralized exchange (e.g. Uniswap, PancakeSwap)
- Liquidity pools created immediately—tradeable from day one
STO (Security Token Offering):
- Regulated token sale representing securities or real-world assets
- Must comply with local securities laws
Fair Launch:
- No private pre-sales—everyone gets equal access at launch (e.g. via mining or public mint)

Each format has different trust, speed, and compliance trade-offs!

Research the Project:
- Read the whitepaper and litepaper
- Check team credentials and GitHub activity
Join the Whitelist:
- Complete KYC/AML if required
- Follow official channels for whitelist announcements
Prepare Your Wallet:
- Have ETH/BSC/Polygon ready for contribution
- Set appropriate gas limits & slippage tolerance
Execute Your Order:
- Use limit orders when possible to avoid overpaying
- Monitor gas wars on busy launches (watch for skyrocketing fees)

Never rush—double-check contract addresses and official links!

Snapshot: A block height or timestamp used to record eligibility
Claim Process:
- Visit the project’s claim page
- Connect your wallet (ensure it held the right tokens at snapshot)
- Pay a small gas fee to receive your tokens
Post-Claim:
- Transfer to cold storage for safety
- Monitor token unlock schedules—some airdrops vest over time

Airdrops can be free money, but always confirm you’re on the official site!

Allocate Small Amounts: Treat presales like lottery tickets—never bet your rent.
Beware of Scams: Fake whitelist sites and phishing airdrops are common.
Check Lockups: Heavy team allocations or short vesting can trigger dumps.
Diversify Launch Types: Mix ICOs, IDOs and airdrops to spread risk.

Staying cautious helps you enjoy the upside—without the downside surprise!

Pin this tutorial for quick reference in ICOs, IDOs & Airdrops.
Browse one upcoming IDO on a reputable launchpad (e.g. Polkastarter) today.
Join a whitelist and complete any KYC before the next sale.
Monitor at least two airdrop announcement channels and practice claiming small tokens.

Follow these steps and you’ll go from curious observer to confident token-sale participant in no time!