Introduction

Welcome to the complete guide to trading perpetual futures on decentralized exchanges. This course transforms you from a curious observer into a skilled trader who understands the mechanics, risks, and strategies of on-chain derivatives trading.

🎯 What You'll Learn

This comprehensive 12-lesson program takes you from understanding perpetual futures fundamentals to mastering advanced protocols and professional trading strategies. You'll learn:

  • Perpetual Futures Fundamentals: What perpetuals are, how they differ from traditional futures, and why they matter in DeFi

  • Mathematical Mastery: Funding rates, margin requirements, leverage calculations, and liquidation mechanics

  • Architecture Understanding: CLOB, Oracle-based pools, vAMM, and hybrid models

  • Protocol Expertise: Hyperliquid, GMX V2, Drift, dYdX, EdgeX, and more

  • Professional Strategies: Funding rate arbitrage, delta-neutral strategies, and risk management frameworks

πŸ“š Course Structure

Module 1: Foundation Building (Lessons 1-4)

Build your foundational knowledge with perpetual futures basics, mathematics, architecture types, and your first position.

Module 2: Protocol Mastery (Lessons 5-8)

Master major protocols: Hyperliquid's L1 performance, GMX V2's oracle pools, Drift's hybrid architecture, and alternative chain protocols.

Module 3: Advanced Strategies (Lessons 9-12)

Explore funding rate arbitrage, advanced risk management, emerging trends, and build your professional trading system.

πŸŽ“ How to Use This Course

Each lesson includes:

  • Detailed Explanations: Beginner-friendly introductions with advanced deep-dives

  • Mathematical Formulas: Explained intuitively with real-world examples

  • Practical Exercises: Hands-on assessments and calculation worksheets

  • Visual Aids: Infographics and diagrams to reinforce concepts

  • Protocol Comparisons: Learn when to use which protocol for maximum efficiency

πŸ’‘ Key Principles

  1. Risk First: Understanding liquidation mechanics and margin requirements protects your capital. Never risk more than you can afford to lose.

  2. Architecture Matters: CLOB protocols offer CEX-like experience. Oracle pools offer zero slippage but carry different risks. Choose based on your strategy.

  3. Start Small: Begin with low leverage and isolated margin. Master basics before advanced strategies.

  4. Funding Rates Matter: High funding rates can erode profits. Always check before opening positions.

  5. Multi-Protocol: Different protocols excel at different things. Learn multiple platforms to optimize your strategies.

πŸš€ Getting Started

  1. Start with Lesson 1: Understanding Perpetual Futures Fundamentals

  2. Complete the exercises for each lesson before moving on

  3. Use the provided calculators and frameworks in exercises

  4. Practice with small positions and low leverage initially

  5. Monitor positions closely and understand liquidation risks

⚠️ Important Warnings

  • Liquidation Risk is Real: Positions can be liquidated if margin requirements aren't met, resulting in total loss of collateral

  • Funding Rate Costs: High funding rates can consume profits, especially on leveraged positions

  • Oracle Risk: Price feed manipulation or latency can cause unexpected liquidations

  • Smart Contract Risk: All DeFi protocols carry technical risk

  • Bridge Risk: Moving assets between chains introduces custody risk

  • Not Financial Advice: This course teaches mechanics, not investment recommendations

πŸ“– Beginner's Corner

If you're new to perpetual futures:

  • Start with Lesson 1 and take your time

  • Use the "Beginner's Corner" sections in advanced lessons

  • Focus on low leverage (2-5x) initially

  • Practice with isolated margin before cross-margin

  • Join DeFi trading communities for support

πŸ”¬ Advanced Sections

For experienced traders:

  • Look for "Advanced Deep-Dive" boxes in each lesson

  • Explore the mathematical derivations

  • Study protocol architecture details

  • Implement professional monitoring systems

  • Build automated trading frameworks


Remember: Perpetual futures trading offers powerful opportunities but requires understanding, vigilance, and strict risk management. Master the fundamentals, start conservatively, and build your knowledge systematically.

Let's begin your journey to mastering perpetual futures trading on decentralized exchanges.

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