> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://docs.arcex.app/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://docs.arcex.app/getting-started/place-your-first-trade.md).

# Place your first trade

{% hint style="danger" %}
CAUTION! Be aware of the risks associated with perpetual futures (perps) trading!
{% endhint %}

#### Step 1: Choose your trading pair

First, you'll need to decide which asset you want to trade. At the top of the trading screen, you can browse and select from our available perpetual futures markets, such as BTC-PERP or ETH-PERP.

<figure><img src="/files/26KTcxJCe3tq6o9gQwE3" alt="" width="188"><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

#### Step 2: Decide to Go Long or Short

This is the core of your trade. Based on your market analysis, you'll choose one of two directions:

\*   **Go Long (Buy):** If you believe the price of the asset will go **up**

\*   **Go Short (Sell):** If you believe the price of the asset will go **down**

#### Step 3: Select your leverage

At Arcex, we offer a wide range of leverage options, from 1x all the way up to 100x (for experienced traders).&#x20;

As we discussed in our guide on [Understanding Leverage](/trading-basics/understanding-leverage.md), this will amplify your position size. For beginners, we **strongly recommend** starting with a lower leverage, such as 2x or 3x, to manage your risk effectively.

<figure><img src="/files/77vMMYpEMwMUmYmUgnLU" alt="" width="375"><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

#### Step 4: Choose your order type

For your first trade, we recommend using a **Market Order**. This is the simplest order type, as it will execute your trade immediately at the best available price in the market. You can learn more about other order types in our[ Order Types](/trading-basics/order-types.md) guide.

#### Step 5: Enter an amount

Now, decide how much you want to trade. Enter the amount in terms of USDC. The platform will show you the total notional value of your position based on the amount and leverage you've selected.

#### Final Step: Review and Confirm

Finally, a confirmation window will appear, summarizing all the details of your trade: the trading pair, direction (long or short), leverage, amount, estimated liquidation price, etc. Take a moment to review everything carefully.

If you're happy with the details, click **"Confirm Trade"** to execute your order.&#x20;

{% hint style="success" %}
Congratulations, you've just placed your first trade on Arcex!
{% endhint %}


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