> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://www.degenbot.wiki/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://www.degenbot.wiki/start-here.md).

# Getting started

Open the correct bot, check membership access, and learn the basic controls.

You do not need to install software on a server or connect an exchange to read alerts from the hosted Degen Trading Bot.

Begin with [Quick start](/start-here/quick-start.md). It takes you from opening the correct Telegram conversation to reading your first message and checking performance.

### Set up and find your way around

| Page                                                                              | What it helps you do                                                 |
| --------------------------------------------------------------------------------- | -------------------------------------------------------------------- |
| [Quick start](/start-here/quick-start.md)                                         | Start a session and understand the basic workflow.                   |
| [Membership and access](/start-here/membership-and-access.md)                     | Distinguish a purchase, a community, and a private bot conversation. |
| [Commands and menus](/start-here/commands-and-menus.md)                           | Use available controls without relying on obsolete instructions.     |
| [Markets, symbols, and timeframes](/start-here/markets-symbols-and-timeframes.md) | Match the right instrument, market, and analysis window.             |

Keep the account used during onboarding consistent with the account intended to receive access. Joining a community does not necessarily activate the private bot.

Once you can navigate the bot, continue to [Read an alert](/understanding-alerts/read-an-alert.md).