For newcomers to ListaDAO, I would like to share a complete operational path that has been validated through practice. This path starts with the most basic preparations and progresses step by step, aimed at helping newcomers safely and systematically master the core functions of ListaDAO.
Phase One: Education and Preparation. Before touching any funds, I recommend spending at least a few hours understanding the basic concepts of ListaDAO: What is over-collateralized lending? What is liquid staking? How does the liquidation mechanism work? At the same time, prepare the necessary tools: a wallet that supports the BNB chain (such as MetaMask), a small amount of BNB for gas fees, and a small amount of funds for testing. I strongly advise against investing large amounts of money without understanding the basic mechanisms.
Stage two: Small-scale testing operations. I recommend beginners start with a very small amount, like $100 worth of BNB. Specific steps include: transferring BNB to your wallet and switching to the BNB chain; visiting the official ListaDAO website to connect your wallet; attempting to convert a small amount of BNB to slisBNB (if needed); depositing slisBNB as collateral; borrowing lisUSD far below the limit (it is advisable not to exceed 30% of the borrowable amount for the first time); attempting to take lisUSD to an exchange or use it for other simple operations; lastly, fully go through the repayment and withdrawal of collateral process. The goal of this stage is not to profit but to familiarize yourself with the interface and process with zero risk.
Stage three: Basic strategy practice. After becoming familiar with operations, you can try the simplest arbitrage strategy: borrow lisUSD at a moderate collateral rate (e.g., 60%) and transfer it to a platform like Binance for flexible investment. Record the borrowing rate, investment rate, operation frequency, and actual returns. This stage should last at least a few weeks to experience the changes in interest rates and fluctuations in collateral value throughout a complete market cycle.$LISTA
Stage four: Monitoring and optimization. Establish a simple monitoring habit: spend a few minutes each day checking the collateral rate, borrowing rate, and collateral value; learn how to set price alerts; study how to use DeFi data platforms to view the overall status of the protocol. At the same time, start exploring more complex strategies, such as using interest-earning assets as collateral or trying liquidity provision.
My opinion: This path from zero to one is based on my own experiences and lessons learned, with the biggest feature being an emphasis on gradualness and safety. I have seen too many beginners suffer unnecessary losses because they skipped the learning phase or started using high leverage right away. Although ListaDAO offers a relatively friendly user experience, the nature of DeFi determines that it is not suitable for users who completely do not understand the basic concepts. I recommend that beginners view the first three stages as essential 'tuition,' with the funds invested limited to an amount where 'total loss does not affect living.' Through such a systematic learning path, beginners can not only master the use of ListaDAO but also establish a correct awareness of DeFi risks and operating habits, which will be a more valuable long-term asset than any short-term gains. ListaDAO is an excellent entry platform for DeFi, but even as a beginner, one must respect the basic laws of finance and principles of risk.